About MBA
Supporting the Entrepreneurial Spirit
The Marion Business Association (MBA) supports economic development in Marion by helping local businesses, residents, visitors, and community partners connect with the people, places, and resources that keep Marion moving forward. Whether helping a business find resources, promoting downtown as a destination, creating local events, or sharing what makes Marion special, the MBA’s work is rooted in one goal: strengthening Marion’s economy and sense of place.
Who We Are
Formed through a mix of public and private support, the MBA facilitates collaboration and action around the growth and vitality of Marion.
The MBA is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit business organization governed by an active Board of Directors and funded through support from the City of Marion, membership dues, and special events.
The MBA is also part of the North Carolina Main Street program and is a nationally accredited Main Street America™ community. Through this framework, Marion joins communities across the country that are working to strengthen local economies, preserve historic character, and create inviting places for businesses, residents, and visitors.
The MBA works closely with the City of Marion, the McDowell Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Center at McDowell Technical Community College, the McDowell Economic Development Association, and other partners to support business growth and community vitality.
Upcoming Events
Executive Officers
Crystal Ledbetter
President
Ledbetter Properties
Alyssa Hughes
Vice President
Barefoot Baby
Matthew Ledford
Treasurer
Little, Lattimore, and Ledford
Tyler Mace
Immediate Past President
Westmoreland Funeral Home
Board Members
Andrea Allison
First Bank
Erin Adams
Jim Cook Cheverolet
Woody Ayers
Ex-Officio/ City Manager
Walt Bagwell
TWFG Insurance
Portia Bollinger
Ex-Officio/Chamber
Becky Poteat
Premier Insurance
Ashely Rhymer
First Citizens Bank
Jim Smith
Freedom Life Ministries
Cindi Snedaker
Refinery 13
Nancy Spencer
Spencer's Hardware
Staff
Freddie Killough
Executive Director
Marion Business Association
Lisa Arrage
Events and Outreach Coordinator
Marion Business Association
Olivia Wan
Administrator/Finance Manager
Marion Business Association
Vision & Mission
Our Vision for Downtown Marion, NC
Downtown Marion is the gathering place of McDowell County with a thriving downtown center of entrepreneurship and entertainment.
Our Mission
The Marion Business Association serves to strengthen the economic base of the City of Marion while preserving the historic character of downtown.
Value Statement
The Marion Business Association serves to strengthen the economic base of the City of Marion while preserving the historic character of downtown.
Why Join MBA?
MBA membership connects businesses with visibility, resources, networking opportunities, technical assistance, and a stronger voice in the continued growth of Marion.
For only $100 a year, less than $8 a month, you can become part of a network working to support Marion’s business community and each other.
Member Benefits:
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Business listing on DiscoverMarionNC.com
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Networking and connection opportunities
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Small business counseling assistance
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Dedicated member newsletter
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Support through MBA events, promotions, and community initiatives
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Opportunities for board or committee service
MBA Volunteer Form
Thank you for your interest in volunteering your time and expertise to the Marion Business Association (MBA). The MBA is a 501c4 non-profit organization, serving as the economic development office for the City of Marion. The MBA provides citizens with a sense of community by coordinating events such as the Livermush Festival, Fourth of July Celebration, Side Walk Yard Sales in May and August, Mountain Glory Festival and Christmas activities. Whether you are looking to volunteer for an event or serve on the MBA Board of Directors or MBA Committee, we look forward to getting to know you.
As a Main Street America™ Accredited program, Marion Business Association is a recognized leading program among the national network of neighborhoods and communities that share both a commitment to creating high-quality places and to building stronger communities through preservation-based economic development. All Main Street America™ Accredited programs meet a set of National Accreditation Standards of Performance as outlined by the National Main Street Center.
Marion is a North Carolina Main Street community, designated by the N.C. Department of Commerce Main Street & Rural Planning Center. Marion Business Association is charged with administering the program at the local level and building public-private partnerships to spur economic development that achieves measurable results such as investment, business growth, and job creation.