At the Jackson Convention Center, mayors from across the region came together for the first-ever DELTA FEST, a three-day conference designed to spark long-term economic growth throughout Southern communities. The gathering brought together city leaders, financial institutions, and development partners under one shared mission: Deep South city leaders gather to discuss strategies for community prosperity and to turn those ideas into action over the next decade.
The main session on Wednesday was led by Alaina Beverly, executive vice president of the Black Economic Alliance Foundation. She guided a powerful conversation with the mayors of Jackson, Little Rock, Birmingham, and Montgomery, highlighting how Southern cities—rich in Black history, culture, and entrepreneurship—can become models of inclusive economic success.
“Our Southern cities are proof that innovation and targeted investment can open doors to opportunity for everyone,” Beverly said. “These communities don’t just carry the legacy of this nation—they are helping shape its future.”
Restoring Trust and Rebuilding Jackson
Jackson Mayor John Horhn, who recently took office, said his top priority is rebuilding trust with residents and with state and federal partners. Years of challenges with the water system, airport control, and widespread blight have taken a toll on public confidence.
“Before anything else, we have to prove we can deliver the basics,” Horhn explained. “We need a clear plan so people know where we’re headed and how we’re going to get there.”
He described his vision as a modern-day “Marshall Plan” for Jackson—one focused on fixing neglected neighborhoods, creating affordable housing, and improving public safety. Horhn also made a direct appeal to investors and organizations willing to step in and help.
“If you have resources and you want to make a difference, Jackson has opportunities waiting for you,” he said.
Little Rock’s Push for Inclusive Growth
Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott shared how his city is investing in underserved communities through programs like the BUILD Academy, a 12-week initiative that trains entrepreneurs and small business owners to scale their operations. By focusing on people who were historically left out of economic growth, the city has seen neighborhoods transform and job numbers rise.
“Real change means being bold enough to do things differently than before,” Scott said. “We’re not stuck in the past—we’re building for today.”
Birmingham’s Focus on Housing and Education
Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin spoke about the urgent need for affordable housing and how his city has invested more than $16 million in repairs, new homes, and down payment assistance over the past five years. A significant portion of that funding came from HOPE Enterprise Corporation, a financial institution dedicated to supporting underresourced communities across the Deep South.
“Every new homeowner we help is another family building wealth and stability,” Woodfin said. “That’s how you create lasting opportunity.”
He also highlighted Birmingham Promise, a scholarship program that covers tuition for graduates of Birmingham schools who attend public colleges in Alabama. By reducing student debt, the program makes it easier for young adults to think about buying homes and starting businesses.
Montgomery’s Small-Business Revival
Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed pointed to the city’s partnership with HOPE as a key driver of its economic comeback. By offering low-interest loans and financial support to small businesses, Montgomery has helped entrepreneurs grow and hire locally.
“When we invest in our business owners, we’re investing in the entire community,” Reed said. “That confidence and support ripple through the whole economy.”
A Regional Vision for Prosperity
DELTA FEST was created by HOPE Enterprise Corporation and Yancey Consulting, with support from major financial institutions like Wells Fargo and Capital One. Bill Bynum, CEO of HOPE, said the organization has spent more than 30 years working in underfunded communities, but true progress requires collaboration.
“We need a full ecosystem—people who bring capital, expertise, and access to opportunity,” Bynum said. “That’s how we level the playing field.”
He explained that DELTA FEST was born from the realization that many Deep South communities were overlooked when state and federal resources were distributed. The conference aims to change that by connecting bold local ideas with the organizations that can help make them real.
“Our goal is simple,” Bynum said. “We want an economy that gives everyone a fair shot—no matter where they’re from, what they look like, or who their parents were. When people can thrive, the whole nation benefits.”
With leaders united and partnerships forming, Deep South city leaders gather to discuss strategies for community prosperity not just as a slogan, but as a shared commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive future for the region.
