2021 40 Under 40: Grant Sloan

Grant Sloan, 33, is helping write Branson’s next chapter. In his first year managing memberships, sponsors and marketing for the Branson chamber and CVB, he says he boosted sponsorships by 30%. He also launched 5 in Five, a strategic plan, which led to attracting 1,000 new workers, completing workforce housing and theater industry studies, and hiring a business ombudsman at the city.

Sloan says his proudest accomplishment was the completion of the theater study that wrapped last fall. It identified challenges and opportunities for the industry that employs 2,200 and produces a $140 million annual economic impact.

During the pandemic, Sloan oversaw a COVID-19 resources page for businesses. He also launched 202ONE with Whysdom to track cellphone data of 2018-19 Branson visitors to craft future marketing messages.

What about your job would shock people? Our team secures half-a-billion-dollar projects, lands $20 million in free advertising through public relations and attracts hundreds of employees to the market each year.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received? The mayor of Green Forest, Arkansas, once told me, “Always walk towards the barking dog.” If there is a problem, run towards it.

Favorite hobby or pastime? I have five friends from college who are my brothers. Whether it’s going to Dallas Cowboy games or just playing Xbox, the laughter shared literally causes me physical pain. I wouldn’t have it any other way.