A:        One Sumter is an economic development foundation dedicated to tackling tough issues and bridging different sectors of the community together to work toward common goals. One Sumter is guided by a five-year Strategic Plan to stimulate community and economic development in Americus and Sumter County.

A:      One Sumter was born from a collaboration effort between the Sumter County Development Authority and the Sumter County Chamber of Commerce and is a non-profit 501 (C) (3) foundation. One Sumter is an independent organization that works collaboratively with many public and private leaders throughout Sumter County.

A:      One Sumter is funded by community-wide fund-raising initiatives.

A:        There are four components of the One Sumter Plan: Economic Development, Workforce Development, Marketing/Communications, and Transportation.

A:      An investment in One Sumter may be tax deductible as a trade/business expense. One Sumter is a 501 (C) (3) foundation. However, you should contact your tax professional for specific information and advice.

A:        Annual funding will be used as follows:  Economic Development= $130,000/yr., Workforce Development=  $50,000/yr., 

Marketing/Communications= $100,000/yr., Transportation= $120,000/yr.    Total Investment for five years=  $2,000,000

A:        Every business, every professional, and every citizen in the Greater Sumter County area will benefit from the initiatives of One Sumter. Economic and Workforce Development will have a significant impact across the entire county. Expansions of existing business and industry, new entrepreneurial opportunities, as well as new business will create new jobs, new capital investments, new and expanded payrolls and new tax revenues.

A:        Yes. Donors are recognized by inclusion on our website, and on plaque erected at the One Sumter office in honor of all who are sponsoring One Sumter’s programs.

A:        No. National research studies confirm that as many as 70% of new jobs in a community are created by existing business and industry. A key component of the One Sumter five-year Strategic Plan is to assist Sumter County’s existing businesses grow and prosper.

A:        Yes. Through the years, the City of Americus and Sumter County elected officials have played a critical role in the community and economic development process. For One Sumter to succeed, it is important that the Public Sector continue their strong support.

A:        As a true “public-private partnership” for economic and workforce development in the Sumter County area, it is essential that our corporate leaders join our elected officials “at the table”. Successful economic and community development depends on the synergy of a cooperative team approach by all of the leaders in the greater Sumter County community.

A:      A Special-Purpose Local-Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) can only be used to fund capital outlay projects such as a “brick & mortar” or a tangible element. A SPLOST cannot be used for intangible projects such as workforce development, programing, communications, or marketing.