Oxford recognized as national leader in economic growth by Walton Family Foundation
May 2018 – Oxford, MS– The work of Oxford’s economic development team has again been recognized on the national stage. The Walton Family Foundation highlighted Oxford as “one of the fastest-growing micropolitans in the nation” in its “Micropolitan Success Stories” paper.
The paper credits Oxford’s growth to many factors, including quality of life, healthcare and the tourism industry. Much of the growth was credited to the Oxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation and Chamber of Commerce for its “diversified and thoughtful strategic economic development planning.” Their method has led to a 455 percent increase in personal income from 1970 to 2016. During this same time period, the national growth rate was 201 percent.
“The EDF is extremely grateful for the recognition by the Walton Family Foundation. We take a nontraditional approach to development by focusing on people first and are excited to demonstrate success with this unique method. Oxford’s strategy can be replicated in communities all over rural America. We are even more delighted about the recognition of our successful entrepreneurs,” says Allen Kurr, Vice President of the Economic Development Foundation.
The Walton Family Foundation also associates much of Oxford’s growth to Ole Miss. By creating hundreds of jobs and expanding capital, the university created lasting development. Additionally, Ole Miss has produced diverse businesses such as Morrow Creative, FNC, Next Gear and New Lab Media LLC. These companies drive valuable job growth and demonstrate advanced industry has a home in the region.
The Oxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation is a public-private partnership that works to create opportunities for responsible economic investment, raising the per capita income for all citizens of Lafayette County.
