Since its establishment in 2023, the Clarksville Industrial Association (CIA) has become a cornerstone of business engagement in Clarksville-Montgomery County, bringing together more than 100 leaders each quarter for networking, learning and community building.
The quarterly CIA meetings serve as the primary vehicle for the Clarksville-Montgomery County Economic Development Council’s business retention and expansion program, creating opportunities for industry leaders, educators, workforce developers, and local officials to connect face-to-face in an informal and engaging environment.
Growing network
What began with 50 attendees at the inaugural January 2023 meeting at LG Electronics has grown substantially. The most recent May 2025 gathering at American Snuff brought together 150 guests representing approximately 80 different organizations across the community.
“The CIA meeting was designed to bring industry, businesses, educational organizations, and nonprofits operating in Clarksville-Montgomery County together quarterly to discuss topics important to businesses and to our network,” explains Chris Self, Director of Workforce Development for the EDC.
More than just networking
Each CIA meeting features timely discussion topics relevant to local business operations. Recent sessions have explored developing winning cultures, building stronger workforce pipelines, giving back to the community, navigating multigenerational workforces, and quality of life in Clarksville.
The meetings rotate among different company and venue hosts throughout the community, giving attendees opportunities to see inside local operations and learn from their peers. Past hosts have included major manufacturers like Hankook Tire, Florim USA and American Snuff Company, as well as community venues like APSU Fortera Stadium, Old Glory Distilling Co. and F&M Bank Arena.
Secret agent theme
True to its CIA acronym, the meetings embrace a lighthearted “secret agent” theme that has proven popular with attendees. The atmosphere, combined with lunch, helps create an environment where meaningful business relationships can develop naturally.
The Clarksville Industrial Association recognized four outstanding community partners as Top Agents for their support. Carroll Daniel Construction, F&M Bank Arena, JE Dunn Construction and Millan Enterprises each demonstrated exceptional commitment to fostering business connections and collaboration in Clarksville-Montgomery County. Each Top Agent received the coveted Whiskey Barrel Top award in recognition of their contributions to strengthening Clarksville’s business community.
Making an impact
The CIA meetings provide an efficient way to connect with multiple companies simultaneously, offer support that existing businesses need to succeed, and strengthen connections among organizations as neighbors in a growing community.
Whether you’re representing a major manufacturer, a local business, an educational institution, or a nonprofit organization operating in Clarksville-Montgomery County, the Clarksville Industrial Association offers a valuable opportunity to stay informed about community developments while building relationships with fellow business leaders.
For information about upcoming CIA meetings or sponsorship opportunities, contact Chris Self at cself@clarksville.tn.us.