Naturally Lewis Inc., the lead economic development organization for Lewis County, grew out of a long-term vision and two years of in-depth discussions on merging the roles of the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Organizations. For years, the “idea” of a unified approach lingered and was discussed, in passing. It wasn’t until recently that this “idea” started to spark meaningful conversations about how a consolidated organization could best serve the community’s needs. This idea wasn’t just an “idea” anymore; it was an idea that was within reach with the right partners and people at the table. 
You may think, “Wait, wasn’t Naturally Lewis already around?” In a way, yes. “Naturally Lewis” initially began as a brand to market Lewis County as the Natural Choice to grow a business. This marketing initiative was funded by Lewis County and launched by the Lewis County IDA in 2015. Over time, entities like the Lewis County Development Corporation (LCDC) and the Lewis County Chamber of Commerce became invaluable partners of the IDA, each bringing unique strengths to the area’s economic development landscape.
But with each organization handling a distinct area of economic support, it soon became challenging and confusing for the public to know who did what. We were facing an identity crisis—clients, businesses, and community members were unsure where to turn for the services they needed. The roles of the County of Lewis IDA, the LCDC, the Chamber of Commerce, the Naturally Lewis brand, and even the former tourism brand, Adirondacks-Tug Hill, blurred together in the minds of our clients. This confusion made it clear: we needed a single, consolidated organization that combined economic development, tourism, and Chamber of Commerce functions to better serve our communities.
Naturally Lewis Inc. was born from this vision; a streamlined, legacy organization that brings all these resources under one roof. The consolidation unified the IDA and Chamber staff, optimized limited resources, and created a one-stop shop for all economic development, tourism, and business growth services in Lewis County. Today, Naturally Lewis Inc. administers the services of the IDA, the LCDC, the Chamber of Commerce, and serves as the county’s tourism promotion agency with its refined brand, Discover Tug Hill.
So, if you’re still wondering what Naturally Lewis can do for you: whether you're starting or expanding a business, developing a property, or considering relocating to Lewis County, Naturally Lewis Inc. is here to provide the tools and resources you need to succeed. We are dedicated to the growth of our communities, the growth of our people, partnerships and collaborations, and the continuation of the growth of this legacy organization.