The last few weeks of the year are often a time of reflection. This is an exciting year for growth and business development in this Palestinian city, thanks in large part to the Palestinian Economic Development Corporation.
PEDC is a Type B Texas Economic Development Corporation established under the Development Corporation Act of 1979. This department is located within Palestine and oversees economic development, corporate recruitment, retention, and expansion. Established by state law and appointed by the mayor and city council, the PEDC Board provides governance and policy direction for economic development in Palestine.
“Our mission is to have a positive impact on our communities,” said Christophe Trahan, Economic Development Director at PEDC. “We’re seeing that impact more visible than ever, and what’s really exciting is that the community is buying in and benefiting as a stakeholder in our broader strategic plan. At its heart, economic development is a larger team effort with our friends and neighbors.”
The Palestine Economic Development Corporation administers several programs throughout the year to support investment in the region. Our staff, board of directors, and community partners bring in new business while supporting the growth of local entrepreneurs and leaders. Here are some highlights of 2024, made possible by PEDC’s partners, city leaders, the Palestinian Regional Chamber of Commerce, business owners, and the countless others who are proud to call Palestine home. Let me introduce you.
new business
PEDC works with franchise owners and large corporations to bring new business to the area. These stores and restaurants create jobs and improve the quality of life for residents. Here are some businesses opening in 2024.
– LS Tractor
– Aldi
– Marshalls
– Ross
– 7 Brew Coffee
– Ulta Beauty
– Smoothie King
“PEDC loves local business owners and is thrilled that Palestine is receiving national attention from major brands,” Trahan said. “This is a desirable and profitable location. PEDC would like to give special thanks to LS Tractor, Texas Futura and Callizo Aromas, companies that we are proud to have directly helped establish a presence here in Palestine. PEDC staff will be happy to help any company relocate to the region and establish its headquarters in Palestine.”
Projects under construction
Trahan said this is a great year to start a new business in Palestine, and there is no sign of this momentum slowing down in 2025. Several new businesses are currently under construction in the area, many of which will be major job creators once they open. Some of the notable companies we look forward to celebrating in 2025 include:
– Christus Emergency Hospital Campus
– Aspen Dental
– urgent care
– Parachute Plasma Donation Center
– A thorough food company
“The population is growing and the workforce is changing,” Trahan said. “New residents are attracted to Palestine’s high quality of life and are bringing their skills and experience with them, and there are more opportunities than ever to learn new skills and trades to land the job of their dreams.Skilled Labor Power is an attractive factor for any company looking to expand.”
PEDC continues to invest in our community
“While outside investment is exciting, one of PEDC’s core philosophies is to support the growth of existing local businesses,” Mr Trahan said. “One of the key resources to make this happen is our grant program that supports downtown revitalization and community development.”
In the 2023-2024 fiscal year, PEDC has awarded $250,000 to various downtown businesses and organizations for improvements. Companies that have benefited include:
– Dogwood embroidery
– Home Grill Steakhouse
– Palestine Theater
– Historic Palestine Event Center
– A thorough food company
Trahan said PEDC has already committed to distributing $180,000 in grants in FY24-25. Take a look at the improvements from local businesses below.
– Kim’s Convenience Store – Head Office
– pints and barrels
– Redlands Hotel
– Warren’s Barber Shop
– Palestine Resource Center
“PEDC can’t wait to showcase these businesses and their improvements,” Trahan said. “These upgrades and renovations not only make the customer experience more enjoyable, but also make Palestine more attractive to visitors and potential businesses deciding to relocate to Palestine.” , a community development grant contributed to improvements to the Upper Lake Trail and assisted the Parks Department in funding the construction of new concrete sidewalks in Reagan Park. These improvements directly support residents’ quality of life.
PEDC supports entrepreneurs through education
Small business owners and entrepreneurs need a diverse skill set to succeed. In addition to industry and business knowledge, you’ll also need to develop marketing skills, accounting know-how, and even the basic legal foundations on which to run your organization. PEDC supports the continuing education of local business owners through free and affordable seminars held throughout the year. Some of the classes held this year are:
– Social media marketing
– Ready for business
– How the SBA can help you start and grow your business
– Empowerment of women entrepreneurs
– SBA Federal Hub Zone and TXDOT Overview
– Streamline your strategy: Create engaging content in minutes with AI
“PEDC often promotes these seminars in advance to help entrepreneurs determine if a training opportunity is right for them,” Trahan said. “In addition to these educational seminars, PEDC has held lender roundtables with local banks to discuss small business financing and has also sponsored the Express Management Essentials training program. However, there is always something to learn.”
PEDC strengthened through board involvement
According to Trahan, PEDC is supported and led by a diverse board of directors comprised of active community members and business leaders.
“PEDC would like to extend a special thank you to outgoing Director Linda Dickens, who brings an important perspective to the Board as a longtime downtown business owner. We appreciate your service and contributions. ” Trahan said. “Ernie Williams is our new director. Ernie is a local businessman who owns and operates a local insurance agency and is an active philanthropist in the Palestine and Anderson County communities. 2025 I can’t wait to work with you all.”
Join PEDC in 2025
“This year-end summary highlights how engaged PEDC is with the local business community,” Trahan said. “Potential employers, existing businesses and new entrepreneurs will all receive support from this team. Whether you run a national chain looking to expand into the region, Whether you’re looking to change to , the PEDC team is here to support you.
“Follow PEDC in 2025 and beyond to stay up-to-date on classes, networking opportunities, grant opportunities, and more to help you succeed.As a community, the City of Palestine continues to grow and make this part of Texas a great place to live. You can.”
