Greater Memphis Chamber

For Memphis 5.19.26

For Memphis 5.19.26

by

We are now 5 months into sharing positive Memphis stories, and still, I love hearing the good news.

I hope you have been encouraged by all the good things happening in the city. From new museums to city superlatives, entertainment to education, and awards to economic impact, our city has good happening every single day.

I hope that hearing positive things happening has prompted you to start sharing the good news with anyone and everyone. We’re going to keep sharing the positive stories, and I hope you will too.

Duncan

Keep Reading the Good News For Memphis. 

Memphis Music Through Time

The Memphis sound isn’t just history. It’s made its way from the early days of blues and soul to the present-day sounds of R&B, hip-hop, and more. Music Legends created a sound that made Memphis heard all across the world. Read about the history of Memphis Music and a glimpse into where we are headed here. (Thanks for sharing this story, Alex Coleman!)

World-Renowned Cellist Visits Memphis

Last week, world-renowned cellist Yo-Yo Ma visited the National Civil Rights Museum. He toured the galleries, met with a local cellist, and ended his tour with a touching tribute on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. King was assassinated. Catch a snippet of the song here. (Shout out to Jennie Marshall and Margaret Metz for sharing!)

2026 BBQ Fest was a Success

Last week, the 2026 World Championship BBQ Competition was hosted right here in Memphis, TN. People from all over the world traveled to Memphis to compete and participate in BBQ Fest. For almost 50 years, we’ve been the host. This year, there were 200 teams competing, 15 of which were international teams. Congratulations to all the winners, and I hope you all enjoyed the festivities! Learn more about the competition here or see who won here.

 

Got Good News? Share it with goodnews@memphischamber.com 

Check Out More Good News HERE.

Subscribe to FOR MEMPHIS.

For Memphis 5.12.26

by

May is a big month for Memphis— one of the best in the city. There is so much to do and see, from music to BBQ to fashion and more. Riverbeat this weekend was a true depiction of the positive Memphis that I see.

Isn’t that good news? The city is buzzing. It’s full of energy.

I encourage each one of you to get out and experience the good news. And while you’re out, if you hear of some good news, share it.

Duncan

Keep Reading the Good News For Memphis. 

Recent Grads Choose Memphis

On the topic of recent grads, a couple—neither from Memphis—came to the city for college, and they’re now choosing to stay in Memphis. Katie Avila Bettencourt and Pablo Avila were warned by numerous people and told not to come to Memphis. But their experience was the opposite of what they heard and has caused them to choose to build a postgrad life in Memphis. Read more here.

Helping Students Succeed with tnAchieves and MDRC

Meanwhile in Memphis, a podcast by New Memphis shares incredible stories about Memphis and the partnerships that are improving our community. The latest episode, Helping Students Succeed with tnAchieves and MDRC, discusses a proven model of success is helping students in Memphis persist to graduation and launch careers in the Mid-South thanks to an impact-driven collaboration between tnAchieves and MDRC. Listen here.

Barron Von Opperbean and the River of Time Featured in Forbes

It’s not every day a new museum in Memphis gets spotlighted in Forbes. Barron Von Opperbean is a new immersive museum that opened May 1st on Mud Island. The article features an interview from the newer Memphian and CEO, Jee Vahn Knight. Read more here. (Thanks for sharing, Tony Pellicciotti.)

 

Got Good News? Share it with goodnews@memphischamber.com 

Check Out More Good News HERE.

Subscribe to FOR MEMPHIS.

For Memphis 5.5.26

by

May is a big month for Memphis— one of the best in the city. There is so much to do and see, from music to BBQ to fashion and more. Riverbeat this weekend was a true depiction of the positive Memphis that I see.

Isn’t that good news? The city is buzzing. It’s full of energy.

I encourage each one of you to get out and experience the good news. And while you’re out, if you hear of some good news, share it.

Duncan

Keep Reading the Good News For Memphis. 

Memphis in May 2026 Honored Country Poster Unveiled

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to celebrate alongside many others the 2026 poster unveiling for the Memphis in May honored country, Ireland. In partnership with Memphis in May and ARTSmemphis, the Chamber debuted an incredible poster of the Irish countryside by local artist Anthony Lee. It was a fantastic evening celebrating Memphis + Ireland. (Thank you, Courtney Blanchard, for organizing the great event!) 

Sun Studio ranks 2nd in TripAdvisor’s Top US Attractions

Sun Studio was ranked 2nd in TripAdvisor’s top US attractions. Think about that. Of all 50 states, from cities much larger than Memphis, with national monuments, even, Sun Studio outranked them all. Any guess at what was number one? The Empire State Building. And let’s not forget, Graceland was featured at 24! Read more here and see the full list here. (Shout out to Leigh Martin for sharing the good news.)

Early-stage Memphis Venture Firm closes Fund II above Target

Ridgeline Capital Management, a Memphis-based VC, just closed its Fund II. They received $180M in funds, which exceeded their target amount with commitments from Fortune 500 companies and SBA. The firm is part of the first cohort of Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) Licensees approved under the Small Business Investment Company Critical Technology (SBICCT) initiative launched by the U.S. Office of Strategic Capital. Read more here and here. (Thanks for sharing, Richard Smith.)

 

Got Good News? Share it with goodnews@memphischamber.com 

Check Out More Good News HERE.

Subscribe to FOR MEMPHIS.

For Memphis 4.28.26

by

There’s been lots of good news over the past few weeks, and it’s all exciting. Positive stories about our people and our places. News about what makes Memphis, Memphis.

On that note, early voting ends this week, April 30. Your vote is part of the positive Memphis story.

Keep sharing these stories with your network. And if you’ve got good news of your own, share it with me.

We are changing the narrative one positive Memphis story at a time.

Duncan

Keep Reading the Good News For Memphis. 

Immersive Museum on Mud Island May 1 Opening

A new museum is coming to Mud Island this week, Baron Von Opperbean. The interactive museum is housed in the former Mississippi River Museum and features a collaboration of art, technology, and play. Learn more here and here. (Thanks for sharing, Marvin Stockwell)

Snowden School Student Ranked #1 Boxer in the Country

Sixth grade student, Harmone Sisson is making a name for herself in the boxing world. Only a few months after stepping into the ring, Harmone is now ranked #1 in the country. She won not only the 2026 USA National Boxing Women’s Championship, but also the 2026 Silver Glover National Championship. Way to go, Harmone! Watch this video to hear her story. (Thanks for sharing this good news, Andy McCartor.)

Local Teen in New Michael Jackson Biopic

Memphis teen, Jaylen Lyndon Hunter, plays a young Marlon Jackson in the new movie, “Michael.” Jaylen starred as young Simba in the touring production of “Disney’s The Lion King” as well as Marlon in the touring production of “MJ the Musical.” Read more about Jaylen and the film here.

Got Good News? Share it with goodnews@memphischamber.com 

Check Out More Good News HERE.

Subscribe to FOR MEMPHIS.

For Memphis 4.21.26

by

Good news, everyone! There’s more good news to share FOR MEMPHIS.

Have you been sharing the good news? Thank you to those of you who have been sharing the good news.

In just these few months, this newsletter has grown exponentially. And what that says to me is people want the good Memphis news.

I’m going to keep sharing it, and I hope you will too.

Duncan

Keep Reading the Good News For Memphis. 

Slingshot Memphis & TNAchieves Working to Boost Workforce

Last Thursday, I had the pleasure of hearing about the incredible partnership between Slingshot Memphis and TNAchieves at their event last Thursday. I had the opportunity to share why workforce matters FOR MEMPHIS. Watch this video to learn more about the event. (Thank you to Jared Barnett and John Dunavant for inviting me to be a part of this important event.)

Memphis CEO Speaks at Semafor World Economy

Recently, President & CEO of ALSAC, Ike Anand, was asked by Semafor to speak as part of the Future of Philanthropy session. The room was filled with CEOs of major companies, U.S. Senators, and other world leaders. Ike shared his perspective on the future of philanthropy and how organizations must move forward to continue world-changing work. See Ike’s takeaways from the event here. (Thanks for sharing, Kyle Veazey.)

$311M Secured in Governor’s Budget for UTHSC

This isn’t just good news, but it’s big news for the city. Last week, the Tennessee General Assembly passed the FY27 budget, which included $311M for the construction of a new $350 million College of Medicine Interdisciplinary Building at the University of Tennessee Health Sciences. The new building will allow UTHSC to expand student capacity and further Memphis’ footprint in the healthcare sector. Read more here. (Shout out and congratulations to Chancellor Peter Buckley and Allyson Lawson for passing along this good news!)

Got Good News? Share it with goodnews@memphischamber.com 

Check Out More Good News HERE.

Subscribe to FOR MEMPHIS.

Tennessee General Assembly Passes FY27 State Budget

by

Yesterday, the General Assembly passed the more than $58 billion FY27 budget, following agreement earlier this week between the House and Senate on the spending plan. As Tennessee returns to more typical economic growth after several years of record revenues and continues spending down remaining federal COVID relief dollars, the overall budget has continued to decrease. Even so, Tennessee’s strong fiscal stability and disciplined approach continue to position our state as a great environment for business. 

As with recent years, this year’s budget reflects priorities around public safety, education, infrastructure, and long-term competitiveness. For Greater Memphis, the budget also included several items of regional interest, particularly in public safety, logistics, and support for major institutions.  

Highlights for Greater Memphis include: 

  • $50 million for the Memphis Downtown Public Safety Grant  
  • $5.5 million for the Memphis Art Museum to support construction of the new museum 
  • $311 million for UT Health Science Center to support College of Medicine Interdisciplinary Building
  • $18 million for the University of Memphis for improvements to the Kemmons Wilson School of Hospitality and Resort Management program
  • Additional budget materials also included funding connected to organizations and initiatives such as Code Crew, Memphis Teacher Residency, Teach For America, Moore Tech, Stax Music Academy, and the National Civil Rights Museum expansion design during the process, though some Memphis-related items were later reduced or removed in subsequent budget documents  

The Greater Memphis Chamber is encouraged to see continued state investment in areas that matter to the long-term success of our region, particularly those tied to public safety, economic competitiveness, logistics, and institutional strength. 

The approved budget also included funding for SB 671 / HB 555 related to burglary of a conveyance, a measure the Greater Memphis Chamber has strongly supported as cargo theft becomes an increasing threat to commerce and supply chains. After funding proved to be a hurdle, its inclusion in the budget is a meaningful sign of progress and a strong testament to the Chamber’s advocacy.  

The Path Ahead 

Next week, the General Assembly will reconvene for its final legislative days and work to conclude the 2026 session. In the final stretch, lawmakers will continue taking up budgeted legislation, resolving remaining differences between House and Senate versions of bills, and advancing conference committee reports. The Greater Memphis Chamber will remain engaged through the close of session and continue advocating for policies and investments that strengthen the business climate and support growth across Greater Memphis. A more detailed update on the approved state budget and broader policy developments will be shared once the legislature adjourns. 

For Memphis 4.14.26

by

I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again. Share the good news FOR MEMPHIS.

I know these emails only hit your inbox once a week, but that doesn’t mean you can only share good news on Tuesdays. Share the good news every single day.

In a city like ours, something new and something that sheds light on the positives pops up daily. So share it. Share it with your friends. Share it with your family, your coworkers, your neighbors. Share it with me.

Duncan

Keep Reading the Good News For Memphis. 

Memphis Film Selected for the American Black Film Festival

Memphis is once again on a national platform, but this time in film. The Memphis film, Hoop Street, was selected for the 2026 American Black Film Festival lineup. They were selected for the Narrative Features category. The lineup brings films from around the world. Read more about the competition here and the Narrative Features lineup here. (Shout out to Diamond Young for sharing this piece of good news.)

Memphis Airport Generates More than $10B in Economic Impact

The Tennessee Association of Air Carrier Airports recently released its 2025 Economic Impact Study, which looks at the state’s largest commercial service airports. The report found that Memphis International Airport contributed 67,000 jobs and $10.7 billion in economic output. Read more here.

St. Mary’s Honored with Volunteer Tennessee Award of Excellence

St. Mary’s School was recently recognized at the state level during the Tennessee Conference for Volunteerism and Service Learning. This award recognizes schools that demonstrate a commitment to community service and civic engagement. During the 2024-2025 school year St. Mary’s students gave more than 10,000 service hours across Memphis organizations. Read more here. (Thanks for sharing the good news, Jennifer Parris.)

Got Good News? Share it with goodnews@memphischamber.com 

Check Out More Good News HERE.

Subscribe to FOR MEMPHIS.

Meet the Candidates: County Commission District 9

by

Election season is underway in Shelby County, and voters will soon have the opportunity to help shape the future of several important local offices. Early voting for the Shelby County Primary begins Wednesday, April 15, and Election Day is Tuesday, May 5. As the region’s leading economic development organization, the Greater Memphis Chamber is committed to helping keep the business community informed and engaged on the issues and elections that will help shape the future of Shelby County.

 

The Shelby County Commission serves as the legislative body for county government, making decisions on budgets, policy matters, and issues that impact county services, infrastructure, and quality of life across the community.

 

As part of its election season candidate video series, the Greater Memphis Chamber invited candidates for Shelby County Commission District 9 to share more about their background, priorities, and vision for serving both their district and Shelby County as a whole. Watch the videos below to hear directly from the candidates.

Sam D. Echols, IV

Kharl-Ray Massey

Karen Streeter

To view all our candidate videos click here.

Meet the Candidates: County Commission District 10

by

Election season is underway in Shelby County, and voters will soon have the opportunity to help shape the future of several important local offices. Early voting for the Shelby County Primary begins Wednesday, April 15, and Election Day is Tuesday, May 5. As the region’s leading economic development organization, the Greater Memphis Chamber is committed to helping keep the business community informed and engaged on the issues and elections that will help shape the future of Shelby County.

 

The Shelby County Commission plays a key role in county government, with responsibilities that include approving the county budget, considering local policy issues, and providing oversight on matters that affect residents, businesses, and the long-term health of the community.

 

To help inform voters and members of the business community, the Greater Memphis Chamber invited candidates for Shelby County Commission District 10 to participate in a candidate video series. We encourage you to watch the videos below to learn more about the candidates and their vision for the future of Shelby County.

John Luke Bradley

Rebecca Jane Edwards

 

Samuel B Nelson

Brandon “DD” Washington

To view all our candidate videos click here.

Meet the Candidates: Shelby County Trustee

by

Election season is underway in Shelby County, and voters will soon have the opportunity to help shape the future of several important local offices. Early voting for the Shelby County Primary begins Wednesday, April 15, and Election Day is Tuesday, May 5. As the region’s leading economic development organization, the Greater Memphis Chamber is committed to helping keep the business community informed and engaged on the issues and elections that will help shape the future of Shelby County.

 

The Shelby County Trustee serves as the county’s banker, tax collector, and investment officer, managing the collection and distribution of property tax revenue that helps fund essential local services and government operations.

To provide voters and the business community with an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates, the Greater Memphis Chamber invited candidates for Shelby County Trustee to participate in a candidate video series. Explore the videos below to learn more about their experience, priorities, and vision for the office.

Joseph Lee, III

Michael Whaley

To view all our candidate videos click here.

Meet the Candidates: Shelby County Clerk

by

Election season is underway in Shelby County, and voters will soon have the opportunity to help shape the future of several important local offices. Early voting for the Shelby County Primary begins Wednesday, April 15, and Election Day is Tuesday, May 5. As the region’s leading economic development organization, the Greater Memphis Chamber is committed to helping keep the business community informed and engaged on the issues and elections that will help shape the future of Shelby County.

 

The office of the Shelby County Clerk plays an important role in serving residents through a range of public-facing administrative functions, including vehicle registration, business licensing, and other key records and services that impact citizens and employers alike.

 

To help the business community and voters learn more about those seeking this office, the Greater Memphis Chamber invited candidates for Shelby County Clerk to participate in a candidate video series. Watch the videos below to hear directly from the candidates about their background, priorities, and vision for the office.

Arriell Gipson-Martin

LaSonya Hall

Ed Holt, Jr.

Bennie Smith

 

William Stovall

Britney Thornton

Michael R. Williams

 

 

To view all our candidate videos click here.

Meet the Candidates: Memphis-Shelby County School Board District 6

by

Election season is underway in Shelby County, and voters will soon have the opportunity to help shape the future of several important local offices. Early voting for the Shelby County Primary begins Wednesday, April 15, and Election Day is Tuesday, May 5. As the region’s leading economic development organization, the Greater Memphis Chamber is committed to helping keep the business community informed and engaged on the issues and elections that will help shape the future of Shelby County.

 

The Memphis-Shelby County School Board plays a critical role in overseeing the direction, governance, and accountability of the region’s largest public school system. The decisions made by the board have a direct impact on student outcomes, families, and the future workforce of our community.

 

To give the business community and voters an opportunity to hear directly from those seeking office, the Greater Memphis Chamber invited candidates for Memphis-Shelby County School Board District 6 to participate in a candidate video series. Watch the videos below to learn more about each candidate’s priorities and vision for public education in Shelby County.

 

Marinda A-Williams

T. L. Harris

Contessa Humphrey

Stacey Kelly

To view all our candidate videos click here.