There’s a lot going on in Clarksville these days, and a lot to be proud of. Here are the top things to take note of this month, courtesy of the Clarksville-Montgomery County Economic Development Council.

1. F&M Bank Arena

Fans cheer on the Red River Spartans at F&M Bank Arena. (EDC, contributed)

Now entering its second year, the F&M Bank Arena has a full fall lineup, with sports, music, comedy and family events in the works. Here’s what’s coming up:

  • Govs Madness: Oct. 24
  • Casting Crowns: Oct. 25
  • Govs Men’s Basketball: Oct. 28
  • Govs Women’s Basketball: Oct. 30
  • Red River Spartans Hockey: Nov. 1
  • Cory Rasch Bullriding: Nov. 2

2. Supportive business community

The Clarksville-Montgomery County Industrial Development Board proudly celebrated the first 25 graduates of the new Hispanic Entrepreneurs Academy on Oct. 4. (EDC, contributed)

The Clarksville-Montgomery County Industrial Development Board proudly celebrated the first 25 graduates of the new Hispanic Entrepreneurs Academy on Oct. 4. The program aims to transform lives through education, inspiration and support tailored to the specific needs of Hispanic entrepreneurs. A wide range of services are offered, including specialized courses from business creation and management to advanced digital marketing strategies as well as leadership skill development tools.

“Initiatives that foster business growth, innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit in the community are a key priority for the IDB and help diversify our local economy. I am thrilled we could support this effort and look forward to continuing our partnership,” said Josh Ward, executive director of the IDB.

3. Thriving tourism market

Over 13,000 participants and spectators are expected to stay, dine and shop in Clarksville for an expected visitor spending of $7.1 million. (Visit Clarksville, contributed)

Visitors to Montgomery County generated $385.6 million in spending in 2023. That’s a a 3.84% increase from 2022, according to newly released data from Tourism Economics and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. Montgomery ranked ninth among the 95 counties in Tennessee in tourism spending.

4. Focus on veteran workforce, hiring

Emily Hinson CMC EDC Ambassador to Fort Campbell Transition Assistance. (EDC, contributed)

Because of the supportive community and strong connections between the military and Clarksville civilians, Fort Campbell sees an outsized number of veterans choose to retire to Clarksville. Montgomery County has over 34,000 veterans, with a $617 million economic impact. Veterans make up 20% of the local population.

The EDC is working to make sure veterans retiring here are connected to job opportunities. Emily Hinson was recently hired to the newly created position of part-time CMC EDC Ambassador to Fort Campbell Transition Assistance. Since the position began in July, she has promoted Clarksville-Montgomery County career opportunities to more than 1,200 service members and spouses at the Fort Campbell TAP, Spouse Employment, and Career Skills Program.

5. Strong Chamber supports businesses

The Customs House Museum and Cultural Center after lighting upgrades. (EDC, contributed)

To help local shops improve their storefronts, beautifying all of downtown along the way, the Clarksville Area Chamber of Commerce offers a Commercial Facade Improvement Program. It’s open to Chamber members that are small-business owners and commercial property owners or lessees within the Central Business Improvement District (CBID). The program provides financial assistance in renovations and repairs to commercial and mixed-use buildings, focusing on investments that have an obvious, meaningful and lasting impact to attract other investments, residents and visitors.