Searcy Awarded $680,010 State Grant to Advance New Industrial Site Development

Searcy has been awarded $680,010 through the Arkansas Site Development Program to help advance development of a new industrial site, creating additional opportunities for future business growth and job creation in the community.

The funding was announced by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission as part of $25 million awarded to 22 Arkansas communities through the statewide program.

Forward Searcy, Inc.—the collaborative group charged with leading Searcy’s Economic Masterplan—played a key role in securing the grant. Led by Darrell Welch, Forward Searcy has secured nearly $1 million in grant funding over the past two years to help recruit new, high-paying jobs to the area.

By collaborating with the City of Searcy, Searcy Regional Chamber of Commerce, and other community partners, this work delivers on the community’s vision to invest in economic development, job recruitment, and workforce development to strengthen Searcy.

“This award is another strong step forward for Searcy’s future,” said Welch. “Having competitive, development-ready industrial sites is critical when companies are evaluating where to expand or locate new operations. This funding helps position Searcy to compete for high-quality jobs and continued investment.”

Governor Sanders said the Arkansas Site Development Program helps communities lay the groundwork for long-term success.

“Every success story starts with a strong foundation, and the Arkansas Site Development Program helps communities build the groundwork essential to keep attracting businesses to our state,” Sanders said. “From company-ready sites to our low income taxes and pro-business environment, Arkansas is creating the framework for business success, driving economic growth, and expanding opportunity for generations to come.”

According to the state, eligible applicants for the program were required to have at least 30 contiguous acres listed on the Arkansas Site Selection Database and owned or optioned by the applicant. Funds may be used for infrastructure improvements, grading, drainage, soil analysis, right-of-way acquisition, due diligence studies, and other site-readiness needs.

“The Arkansas Site Development Program is focused on helping local communities compete and win economic development projects,” said Clint O’Neal, executive director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “Congratulations to the award recipients – the work we do today developing sites will lead to more and better job opportunities for Arkansans in the coming years.”

The Arkansas Site Development Program was first launched in 2024 with support from Governor Sanders and the Arkansas General Assembly. Another $25 million in funding is expected to be awarded in Fiscal Year 2027.