Knoxville Stadium Spurs Business Growth

The completion of Knoxville’s new downtown Smokies baseball stadium marks more than just the return of America’s pastime—it represents a renewed effort to build economic opportunity for diverse local businesses. The initiative has also sparked broader discussions about economic equity, inclusion, and local growth. By fostering a pipeline for diverse contractors and professionals, developers hope the stadium’s success will pave the way for continued business development throughout the community. These opportunities underscore the importance of clear, enforceable contracts and equitable business practices—areas where our Knoxville, TN business contract lawyer provides vital support for companies and entrepreneurs alike.

When the project was first proposed, developers promised to involve minority- and women-owned contractors in meaningful ways. As construction progressed, however, it became clear that Knoxville lacked a large pool of diverse business enterprises (DBEs) ready to meet project demands. Still, those involved worked diligently to close that gap, creating valuable connections and opportunities that could have long-term benefits for the city’s underrepresented entrepreneurs.

According to developers, approximately $12.7 million of the stadium’s $86.9 million in contracts—around 14.5%—went to DBEs. Women-owned companies represented the majority, earning nearly $9.9 million in awards, while Hispanic- and Black-owned businesses received about $1.95 million and $845,000, respectively. Edward Henley III, founder of Pillars Development in Nashville and leader of the DBE recruitment effort, noted that when factoring in small businesses, the figure rises closer to 27%. Though short of the initial 17% DBE goal, Henley emphasized that this project should serve as the “first step in how to do it right” for future developments in Knoxville.

Building Business Success Through Strong Contracts

At Carpenter & Lewis PLLC, we recognize that projects like the Smokies stadium depend on carefully structured agreements that define responsibilities, protect investments, and promote fairness. Our contract lawyers help businesses of all sizes with contractual agreements ranging from construction partnerships to vendor relationships. Whether you’re a new contractor entering a large development or an established business seeking to expand into public projects, having skilled legal guidance can safeguard your interests.

Contractual clarity and legal due diligence is critical in major development projects. Misunderstandings or breaches can delay construction, increase costs, and damage professional relationships. Our breach of contract lawyers assist clients in identifying violations, negotiating resolutions, and, when necessary, pursuing legal remedies. In initiatives designed to foster inclusion, it’s essential that DBE and small business participants receive fair treatment and prompt payment in accordance with their agreements.

By providing legal oversight during contract drafting, negotiation, and enforcement, our contract enforcement lawyers help reduce the risk of disputes and create a foundation of trust among project partners. Our Knoxville business contract attorneys also assist businesses with reviewing terms related to performance obligations, timelines, and compensation—making sure that all parties clearly understand their roles before signing.

If your company is entering into a new partnership, construction deal, or vendor agreement, Carpenter & Lewis PLLC can help you build success on a solid legal foundation. We’ve served over 6,000 individuals and businesses in Tennessee, helping them with all of their contractual needs. Our dedication to our clients has earned us countless 5-star reviews on Google. Our clients know we’re the ones to trust when it comes to the legal side of their business. Contact our Knoxville business contract lawyers today to schedule a consultation and learn how our breach lawyers and contract professionals can help your business thrive with well-structured, enforceable agreements that protect your hard work and promote lasting growth.