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Nashville’s Tourism: Driving economic growth and innovation in Middle Tennessee

Recent research from the Center for Applied Business Research (CABR) at Austin Peay State University highlights our region’s tourism industry as a powerful economic engine driving growth and innovation across the state.

The Numbers Don’t Lie: Tourism’s Economic Impact

According to CABR’s latest white paper, “The Heart of Tennessee Tourism: Growth and Innovation in Middle Tennessee,” our state’s tourism sector is thriving:

  • 191,522 direct jobs supported by tourism (4.2% of the state’s workforce)
  • $3.2 billion generated in state and local tax revenues in 2023
  • 144 million visitors in 2023
  • A record-breaking $30.6 billion in direct visitor spending

These figures underscore tourism’s vital role in our local and state economies. For Nashville businesses, this translates to increased foot traffic, higher consumer spending, and more opportunities for growth and expansion.

Nashville: The Hub of Tennessee Tourism

Our city stands at the epicenter of this tourism boom. Major developments like the Nashville Yards project and plans for a new enclosed stadium are set to enhance Nashville’s appeal even further. These infrastructure investments not only cater to visitors but also improve the quality of life for residents and create new business opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

Looking to the Future

While the outlook is bright, CABR’s research also highlights challenges we must address:

  • Managing growth to prevent over-tourism
  • Investing in infrastructure to support increased visitor numbers
  • Diversifying our tourism offerings to appeal to a broader range of travelers

As a business community, we can shape the future of Nashville’s tourism industry. By embracing sustainable practices, investing in our workforce, and continuing to innovate, we can ensure that tourism remains a driving force in our economy for years to come.

Together, we can build on Nashville’s reputation as not just a great place to visit but a great place to live, work, and do business.

This blog post is based on research from the Center for Applied Business Research (CABR) at Austin Peay State University. For more detailed insights, read the full white paper “The Heart of Tennessee Tourism: Growth and Innovation in Middle Tennessee” at apsu.edu/business/applied-research.