Chattanooga, August 10, 2025
News Summary
Mayors Tim Kelly of Chattanooga and Weston Wamp of Hamilton County are committed to supporting local Black businesses despite recent state law changes affecting DEI initiatives. They share plans to enhance economic opportunities for historically marginalized communities through targeted workforce development and support programs. Initiatives include a new workforce center and increased funding for the Small Business Development Center, demonstrating a unified effort to address economic disparities and promote inclusive growth in the region.
Chattanooga – Mayor Tim Kelly of Chattanooga and Mayor Weston Wamp of Hamilton County have conveyed their commitment to supporting local Black businesses despite recent changes in state laws that have curtailed diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. During a recent event aimed at small business owners, both mayors expressed their intentions to foster an inclusive economic environment, ensuring that the specific needs of historically marginalized communities, particularly Black individuals, are addressed.
Mayor Kelly emphasized that many past DEI efforts had been performative rather than substantive. He highlighted the necessity for a focused approach on enhancing access and opportunity for Black communities, while also recognizing the historical disadvantages that various groups have faced. This targeted support aims to create a more equitable economic landscape in Chattanooga.
In tandem with Mayor Kelly’s remarks, Mayor Wamp acknowledged that previous diversity goals set by the county had not been adequately achieved. Both mayors made it clear that alleviating the economic disparities between Black and white residents remains a priority for their administrations. This includes initiatives that directly address barriers to economic mobility for populations historically disadvantaged in the region.
A key aspect of this initiative involves workforce development. Programs at facilities such as the Construction Career Center aim to provide essential skills and opportunities for economic advancement. In a significant development, a new workforce development center is set to be established in a repurposed BlueCross BlueShield building, reinforcing the mayors’ focus on skill development and job readiness.
In an effort to bolster small business growth, the Hamilton County Commission recently approved more than $5 million for renovations to the Small Business Development Center located in North Shore. The goal is to ensure this center effectively serves those who have faced historical underrepresentation in the business sector.
Furthermore, Mayor Kelly announced plans for an entrepreneurial center to be located in the city-owned Kelly building, designed to support the creative economy and encourage innovation among local business owners. In addition, he proposed the implementation of a scoring matrix that would prioritize local enterprises for government contracts, fostering a supportive environment for homegrown businesses.
While Mayor Wamp expressed skepticism regarding the government’s ability to stimulate business growth, he stressed the importance of investing in education and workforce programs. The focus on establishing robust pathways for skill development is seen as fundamental to facilitating economic opportunities for all residents, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.
Despite the initiatives outlined by the mayors, there are concerns among community members regarding the potential negative impacts of dismantling DEI initiatives on local Black businesses. Shay McCowan, an organizer of the event, reported that three businesses within her collective have recently closed, underscoring the urgent need for continued dialogue around economic support for Black entrepreneurs. She emphasized the importance of including Black business owners in discussions about future economic strategies.
As Chattanooga and Hamilton County seek to navigate the evolving economic landscape, the commitment of local leadership to prioritize and uplift Black small businesses remains a critical component of the region’s growth strategy.
Key Initiatives for Support
- Increased funding for the Small Business Development Center in North Shore.
- Development of a new workforce training center in a former healthcare building.
- Establishment of an entrepreneurial center for creative initiatives.
- Implementation of a scoring matrix for local business contracts.
Background Context
The recent changes to DEI policies at the state level have raised concerns among community members regarding their potential consequences for local Black businesses. The overarching goal of the mayors’ initiatives is to bridge the economic gap and provide equitable support to those historically underserved.
FAQ
What recent changes occurred regarding DEI policies in Chattanooga?
Recent state law changes have ended various diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, prompting local mayors to focus on finding ways to support Black businesses directly.
What initiatives have mayors Kelly and Wamp proposed for local businesses?
They proposed increased funding for the Small Business Development Center, establishing a new workforce development center, and creating an entrepreneurial center aimed at supporting creativity within the local economy.
Are there concerns about the impact of DEI policy changes on local businesses?
Yes, community members are worried that dismantling DEI initiatives may negatively affect local Black businesses, as some have already reported closures.
Supporting Chart
| Initiative | Purpose | Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Small Business Development Center Renovation | Support for historically underserved businesses | $5 million |
| New Workforce Development Center | Provide career training and skill development | To be determined |
| Entrepreneurial Center | Encourage creativity and innovation | To be determined |
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Additional Resources
- WDEF: Chattanooga Business Elite Hosts 2025 Level Up Summit
- Nooga Today: Black-Owned Businesses in Chattanooga
- Times Free Press: Mayors Talk Economic Equality
- Local 3 News: Celebration of Minority Businesses
- Times Free Press: Black-Owned Businesses Making Their Mark
- Wikipedia: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Google Search: Workforce Development
- Google Scholar: Economic Equality
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Minority Businesses
- Google News: Chattanooga Business News
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
