Though the past year has seen a world battling economic crisis. Fountain Inn has retained its appeal for new businesses and has bright hopes for the future.

With a growing city identity. Fountain Inn is positioned to recruit new business and industry as the economic tide turns.

“We are getting more people talking to us and looking at us than ever,” Fountain Inn’s Economic Development and Civic Center Director Van Broad said. “We’ve been recruiting businesses and restaurants. Several new restaurants have opened here recently:  Sweet Catherine's, Depot Street Cafe and Desserts, The Railhouse, El Jalisco Mexican restaurant and, coming March '12 will be J Peters Grill & Bar, the 5th J Peters restaurant opened, per owner Jon Angell  .”

Broad said the redevelopment of Main Street, including a priority for landscaping and widening sidewalks, helps solidify the city’s unique downtown. The opening of Commerce Park on Depot Street project provides a central location for visitors as well as a resource for business owners considering the city as a prospective location.

“It’s exciting because we have a true Main Street and a true downtown area,” he said. “It’s a great place to do business and live – great schools, great cultural arts. Really, the town is becoming an arts haven. All of that feeds into economic development. We wanted to implement things to showcase the city and create foot traffic.”

Fountain Inn Chamber of Commerce President/CEO John Hastings said local business owners have banded together to combat economic challenges, many through participation in chamber and community activities.

“Our membership continues to grow,” Hastings said. “The Chamber provides a chance to network and get your name out there at a minimal cost. The sky is the limit as to how much exposure you want.”

Though industry remains a critical component of the city’s economic viability, Broad said the city’s approach to economic development remains holistic, incorporating a diverse base of businesses that mesh well with the city’s small-town charm. As the downtown has begun to thrive, tourism has become a factor, with visitors making their way into town for plays, festivals and more.

Broad said the city is a logical stop for those traveling to the Upstate for a variety of events, including those attending sporting events at Clemson University.

“We are the first stop in Greenville County for people coming up from the southern part of the state,” he said.