MDA Launches Website Highlighting State’s Assets

Jackson, Miss. (April 9, 2012) – The Asset Development Division of the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA) has launched an interactive website, http://assetmap.mississippi.org, to showcase unique assets found in communities throughout Mississippi.
The website pinpoints historic sites, unique businesses, tourist attractions and natural resources found in communities that have undergone MDA’s asset mapping process. The website also highlights markers found along the state’s Blues Trail, Country Music Trail and Culinary Trail. It features a search function enabling visitors to search unique assets within an individual community or on a statewide level.
“By identifying and inventorying a community’s assets, we can help community leaders develop long-term strategic growth plans utilizing their existing assets to improve their communities and make them more competitive,” said Joy Foy, MDA Asset Development Division director. “This website is designed to showcase many of the unique assets found throughout Mississippi for both visitors to the state and locals looking for an adventure. It’s a great resource to have in place, and it will continue to grow as more communities participate in our asset mapping process.”
When a community requests to participate in the asset mapping process, the Asset Development Division organizes teams comprised of people from MDA, the Mississippi Arts Commission, the Mississippi Main Street Association, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality, the state’s universities and other partner organizations. Equipped with cameras, maps and GPS devices, the teams explore the communities, taking notes about museums, creative talent, schools, industry, local businesses, natural resources, historical assets and other distinct features. The teams then offer advice to local leaders regarding possible ways to better utilize the unique assets they discovered, including how the community can further capitalize upon them.
Communities interested in beginning the asset mapping process with MDA’s Asset Development Division are encouraged to call Brandi Hough at 601.359.1354 or e-mail bhough@mississippi.org. Anyone with questions or comments about the interactive asset mapping website should e-mail msassets@mississippi.org.