An Interview with Williamson, Inc. President

Matt Largen

Every year for our annual Distinctively Williamson Business special feature, we take time to speak with the Williamson, Inc. President Matt Largen about the status of business and economic development in our county and region and what impact the Chamber of Commerce has had in growth and success in the previous year. 2025 has had its own set of challenges for our country and our community. Let’s hear what Matt had to say about the year that was in Williamson County. 

With a challenging economy and all the different factors and variables to that—what has been the main focus and goal for 2025 for Williamson, Inc.? What changes to the norm were made to accommodate the impact of the economy on both businesses and the community overall? Have you seen changes to businesses opening/closing/joining the Chamber etc.?

Our focus this year has been not just on the businesses we serve but, on the people, and families behind them, because the impact of a good career in a good community reaches far beyond the workplace. Even amid a complex national economy, Williamson County continues to stand out as one of the strongest local economies in the nation.

For Williamson, Inc., that has meant doubling down on the fundamentals, connecting business leaders, supporting small businesses, and fostering an environment where meaningful careers and strong communities develop together. Every partnership, program, and connection strengthens the shared success that defines Williamson County.

We have seen a steady stream of new chamber members, especially small businesses, and continued enthusiasm from first-time entrepreneurs in our Startup Academy. Each of these stories reminds us that when people have the opportunity to build good careers in a good community, the result is a stronger, more connected place for everyone.

What have been the biggest challenges/biggest successes for Williamson, Inc. and the Economic Development Division in 2025?

When we talk about challenges in Williamson County, I think it’s important for people to understand what that really means. The issues we face, like traffic and housing affordability, are real and important, and we are actively working toward solutions. The great news is that we could not ask for more collaborative local leadership to address these problems. City and county leaders, developers, and employers are all at the table working together to make progress.

At the same time, these challenges exist because our economy is strong. While the national unemployment rate has hovered near four percent, Williamson County remains closer to two percent. That level of employment keeps our local economy healthy but also creates pressure on housing and infrastructure. Data from the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development shows that communities with higher unemployment often experience small business closures within a year, which can be devastating.

So even as we work to manage the pressures of growth, we recognize that we are fortunate to be facing the challenges that come with success rather than decline. Our role is to keep fostering that collaboration and ensure Williamson County remains both economically competitive and a great place to call home.

Despite the challenges, Williamson County leads the state in business strength. What do you attribute that continued success to? How are staffing challenges impacting new and existing businesses, and how does the Chamber work with local business owners to meet this particular challenge? 

Williamson County’s continued success comes from collaboration. Our public and private sectors work together with a shared commitment to quality of life and economic vitality. That alignment between city leaders, schools, nonprofits, and businesses is what allows our community to stay strong even during times of national uncertainty.

When we talk about staffing challenges, it’s important to clarify that the issue is not with the large employers, many of whom are deeply engaged in supporting nonprofits and small businesses across the county. The real pressure is being felt in the essential roles that make our communities thrive, such as teachers, bus drivers, police officers, and hospitality workers. These professionals are vital to our daily lives, yet too often they cannot afford to live in the same communities they serve, or traffic becomes a barrier to their ability to do so.

That reality is why our team has focused heavily on workforce initiatives and attainable housing. Through partnerships with Williamson County Schools and Columbia State we’re helping to build stronger local talent pipelines. We’re also advocating for widened and improved roads to help relieve traffic for those commuting into our communities each day. Their contribution to our shared quality of life cannot be overstated, and our goal is to ensure they have the access, opportunity, and support they deserve. Williamson, Inc.’s role is to keep those conversations active and bring the right people together to find real solutions.

What exciting business news can you report as far as why it’s STILL a great idea to open a business, relocate a business, and be in business in WC? What are the 5 most exciting new businesses coming to our area in the next year?

It is still a great time to be in business here because Williamson County offers something rare: business-friendly leadership, strong infrastructure, and a community that genuinely supports both employers and the people behind them.

A few recent announcements reflect that strength:

1. In-N-Out Burger’s Eastern Territory Office and first Tennessee locations. Their decision to call Franklin home speaks volumes about the talent and welcoming business climate here.

2. Dxcover’s U.S. operations. This biotech company focused on early cancer detection represents a growing life sciences presence in Williamson County.

3. Artiq AI. A fast-growing technology company expanding locally and adding quality jobs to our innovation economy.

4. Lazestar’s investment in Fairview. The company’s relocation from California brought new jobs and resources that strengthen Fairview High School’s mechatronics program and provide valuable career exposure for students.

5. The expansion of BrightStone’s campus. This nonprofit’s growth reflects the community’s generosity and the strong partnership between businesses, educators, and service organizations that make Williamson County such a special place to live and work.

These announcements showcase the diversity of our local economy, from major corporate investments to mission-driven nonprofits, and highlight the collective commitment to making this a place where everyone can thrive.

Why is it still important to join now—and in what ways does the Chamber continue to provide new and exciting ways for members and prospective members to connect and promote their businesses?

Now is a great time to be part of Williamson, Inc. because our focus is on listening, adapting, and creating value that reflects what our members truly need. We recently conducted a comprehensive membership survey, and we are using that feedback to shape new and more tailored benefits that will launch in 2026. Our goal is to make membership even more impactful and personalized, whether you are a small business owner, a corporate leader, or a nonprofit professional.

We have also made significant investments in new software that will enhance our members’ online experience and visibility. When it launches in 2026, it will make it easier for members to connect, promote their businesses, and access the full range of Chamber resources.

As we move forward, we are committed to ensuring that every member sees real value in their investment with us. The Chamber continues to evolve, but our mission remains the same: to connect, support, and champion the businesses and people who make Williamson County thrive.

Real estate has remarkably continued to boom in WC no matter what else happens in the country. But there has been a noticeable slowdown in the last year. Do you see this slowdown impacting business overall here in our community? What do you see as the next phase of the real estate market here in Williamson County?

Real estate has been one of Williamson County’s strongest economic indicators for decades, and while we have seen a slowdown in the past year, it is really more of a stabilization after an extended period of historic growth. The fundamentals of our local economy remain very strong. We continue to attract new companies and retain existing ones because of our skilled workforce, strong schools, and outstanding quality of life.

We are fortunate to have local leadership that recognizes both the opportunities and the responsibilities that come with a community as successful as ours. Williamson, Inc.’s role is to stay engaged in those conversations, bringing together business leaders, real estate professionals, and policymakers to ensure that Williamson County continues to be a place where businesses can succeed and families can thrive.

As the head of the Chamber in Williamson County, what message do you want to share to members of the community and business owners?

My message to our community and business owners is one of gratitude and partnership. Williamson County’s success is built on collaboration, and that spirit continues to set us apart. Every business, nonprofit, and community leader plays a role in shaping the county we all love. As we look ahead, I encourage everyone to stay engaged, share ideas, and continue investing in the place that invests in all of us.