August 22, 2025. Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee and Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter announced today the three companies in Unicoi County that will each receive a retainment and retraining grant following the devastation and destruction of Hurricane Helene last September 2024.
In total, the grants represent more than $4 million in funding, with each company receiving at least $1 million that will directly aid in retaining or retraining employees who were previously terminated due to destruction of the company’s facilities.
“Hurricane Helene was an unprecedented disaster for our state, and one year later, many Tennesseans remain forever changed by the loss of life and severe flood damage,” said Gov. Lee. “I’m proud to announce recovery grants for three Unicoi County companies, which will not only help businesses rebuild and restore operations but also provide job security and strengthen the local economy. I’m confident these grants will create lasting relief and renewed opportunity for families and business in the region.”
The affected companies receiving funding are located along the Nolichucky River in the Erwin Riverview Industrial Park and have either not yet restarted their operations or are in the preliminary stages of operating.
“This is the first time TNECD has provided retraining or retention funding after a natural disaster, and I’m grateful to our partners who supported our efforts in making today’s announcement possible,” said Commissioner McWhorter. “I’m incredibly proud of the strength Northeast Tennessee has shown over the past 11 months, and I want to reiterate on behalf of TNECD that we remain committed to supporting our communities, our businesses and Tennesseans however we can.”
The three companies receiving grant funding are:
Foam Products
- No. of retained positions: 47
- Capital investment: $4.4 million
Foam Products Corporation is a leading fabricator and distributor of commercial and industrial foam insulation and packaging products. The company estimates that Hurricane Helene caused approximately $20 million in damages if a total rebuild is needed.
“This grant is an investment in our most valuable asset: our people. It gives us a chance to keep our talented team together and provide the training and stability needed to build their skills. We are grateful to the state for giving us an opportunity to serve our community for years to come.” – Perry Muse, vice president of manufacturing/GM, Foam Products
PlastiExports
- No. of retained positions: 53
- Capital investment: $7.4 million
PlastiExports is a leading plastics company headquartered in Mexico with several locations across North America. After reviewing the damage from Hurricane Helene, the company has realized over $14 million and counting in damages and loss.
“This retraining and retainment grant represents more than just funding – it’s an investment in restoring jobs and revitalizing our community. Every job that we can provide means stability for a household and hope for the future. I am deeply grateful to our local and state economic development teams for making this possible.” – JP Metcalf, Tennessee business leader/partner, PlastiExports
PolyPipe
- No. of retained positions: 66
- Capital investment: $27.1 million
PolyPipe manufactures polyethylene pipe that is used by utilities throughout North America to deliver natural gas to its customers. The company’s Erwin building was completely destroyed by Hurricane Helene.
“The devastation from Hurricane Helene was unlike anything we’ve faced in our company’s history. This grant is not just funding — it’s a lifeline for our employees, our customers and our future here in Erwin. We are deeply grateful for TNECD’s support, which enables us to rebuild with greater strength, speed and innovation. Together, we’re turning a difficult setback into a new opportunity for renewed growth and resilience.” – Mark Brenon, CEO, PolyPipe
This grant represents the first of its kind from TNECD, and the department is currently reviewing other opportunities for financial assistance following Helene’s destruction.
