Hope Earns Competitive Community Initiative Designation, Signaling Bright Economic Future

HOPE, Ark. – Hempstead Hall was filled with anticipation and holiday cheerfulness Thursday morning (12/18) as state and local leaders gathered to celebrate a milestone for Hope and Hempstead County: the announcement that Hope has earned the coveted Competitive Community Initiative (CCI) designation from the Arkansas Economic Development Commission (AEDC). The event, hosted by the Arkansas Department of Commerce and the Hempstead County Economic Development Corporation (HEDC), underscored a message of progress and promise for Southwest Arkansas.

Anna Powell, HEDC Executive Director, welcomed attendees and recognized the many local and state officials whose collaboration made this achievement possible. Following an invocation by Steve Lance and a festive holiday meal, the program highlighted the significance of the CCI designation, a recognition awarded to only nine Arkansas communities, now 10. The designation signals that Hope is strategically positioned for growth, ready to compete for new business investments, and committed to creating real-world opportunities for its residents.

“Small towns and rural areas are the backbone of our country,” said Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald, who praised the hard work and resilience of local leaders. McDonald shared trivia about Hope’s rich history, including its ties to notable figures, and emphasized that recent years have brought positive economic momentum to the city. He also noted that Southwest Arkansas is advancing in key sectors, including lithium processing and development—an industry poised to play a major role in the region’s future.

Clint O’Neal, Executive Director of AEDC, reinforced that economic development is no accident. “It requires strategic investments in education, workforce readiness, and infrastructure,” he said, stressing the importance of preparing students for real-world careers. O’Neal commended Powell for her leadership and perseverance, calling her efforts a driving force behind Hope’s success. The ceremony concluded with Powell expressing gratitude to the community partners whose support made the designation possible. “This achievement belongs to all of us,” she said, before inviting attendees to enjoy fellowship and pose for photos. Her closing message carried the spirit of the season: “Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!”

As Hope steps into 2026, the CCI designation stands as more than an award—it’s a promise of opportunity, growth, and a brighter economic future for Hempstead County and the entire Southwest Arkansas region.