Ardmore’s new Economic Vision Plan includes two goals aimed at ensuring our community thrives: accelerating downtown development and entrepreneurship, and intensifying tourism initiatives.

Goal 3: Accelerate Downtown Development & Entrepreneurship

Like other communities, small businesses are the backbone of Ardmore’s economy, and the numbers show real momentum: recent data reveals a 10.3% increase in local business applications, outpacing state growth. Building on this, the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, through the Rapid Community Response Program, has committed $1 million to support entrepreneurship, providing a unique opportunity to spark long-term impact.

Key strategies to achieve this goal include hiring an Entrepreneurship Director dedicated to supporting local business owners, launching a local chapter of the nationally recognized “1 Million Cups” networking program, and partnering to create a coworking space where entrepreneurs, creators, and remote workers can collaborate. These steps aim to create a vibrant downtown, filled with innovative businesses and creative energy.

In addition, the plan calls for advocating for continued downtown redevelopment, promoting infill projects, and beautification initiatives inspired by successful programs in other communities. Hosting entrepreneur-driven events, from pitch nights to creative workshops, will further strengthen Ardmore’s small business ecosystem and bring residents and visitors together in the heart of the city.

Goal 4: Intensify Tourism Initiatives

Tourism is a powerful economic engine for Ardmore and the surrounding region. With outdoor recreation participation growing nationwide and contributing billions to Oklahoma’s economy, Ardmore’s location near Lake Murray State Park, Turner Falls, and the Arbuckle Mountains places it in a prime position to benefit.

To harness this potential, the plan proposes hiring a dedicated Tourism Director to guide strategy and partnerships. Data-driven research will help the community better understand visitor trends and spending, informing future decisions. Enhancing digital tools, including a new destination website, mobile app, and interactive itineraries, will make planning trips to Ardmore easier and more engaging.

The creation of a strategic outdoor tourism promotion initiative will connect downtown Ardmore with experiences at nearby lakes, trails, and scenic attractions. Launching a signature event like the Arbuckle to Ardmore Marathon and hosting all-ages sports tournaments at the Ardmore Convention Center will draw new visitors, boost local businesses, and build regional pride.

Together, these goals help Ardmore grow by making our downtown more vibrant and drawing more visitors to the area. Supporting local entrepreneurs brings new shops, restaurants, and services, while tourism events and promotions bring in outside dollars that support local jobs and businesses. In the big picture, this makes Ardmore’s economy stronger, more diverse, and better prepared for the future.

I encourage residents and business owners alike to read the full Economic Vision Plan at https://www.ardmoredevelopment.com/economic-vision-plan and join us in shaping the next chapter of Ardmore’s story. As always if you have any questions, please feel free to email me directly at aanderson@ardmore.org.

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