“In Arkansas, we always say that we want to win more than our fair share of economic development projects. We’re hungry to win, and we have all the elements — workforce, real estate, business-friendly climate, and great communities — to help companies succeed.”
— Clint O’Neal, Executive Director, Arkansas Economic Development Commission
Trex Company celebrates the steel topping off at the flagship building of its manufacturing facility at the Port of Little Rock in August 2024. (Photo: Arkansas Economic Development Commission)
TARGETED GROWTH SECTORS
Aerospace and Defense: Arkansas has a growing aerospace and defense industry with an established industry base in the Highland Industrial Park in Camden.
Food and Beverage: From industry-leading brands to startups, Arkansas is home to some of the most successful food and beverage companies.
Firearms and Ammunition: Firearms and ammunition companies know Arkansas is industry-friendly and have set their sights on growing in the Natural State.
The Arkansas Economic Development Commission works strategically with businesses and communities to create strong economic opportunities, making Arkansas the natural choice for success. Arkansas is an industry-friendly state, offering businesses low costs, a strong workforce, and a high quality of life.
The Hot Springs Metro Partnership is the area’s public/private economic development organization, serving all of Garland County and the entire region. There are also more than 250,000 people within a 30-minute driving radius of Hot Springs, ensuring our employers have a readily available workforce. Greater Hot Springs has one of the most vibrant economies in Arkansas in one of the nation’s most scenic settings.
FAST FACTS
Population (2023 est.): 3,067,732¹
Largest Cities (2024 est.): Little Rock (204,244); Fayetteville (103,979); Fort Smith (89,975); Springdale (88,524); Jonesboro (81,246)¹
Real GDP (2023): $142.8 billion²
¹ U.S. Census Bureau ² Bureau of Economic Analysis, U.S. Dept. of Commerce
Foreign Direct Investment Focus
The Arkansas Economic Development Commission has established an office in Korea. This action is to focus on developing opportunities and recruiting businesses from Korea and surrounding nations to Arkansas.
TOP BUSINESS FACILITIES RANKINGS
Top 10 Manufacturing (Job Growth)
2024 State Rankings
Top 10 Best Business Climate (Large): Fayetteville/Springdale/Rogers
2024 Metro Rankings
Top 10 Most Affordable Cities (Small): Jonesboro
2024 Metro Rankings
Top 10 Most Affordable Cities (Medium): Little Rock
