Omni Tech Manufacturing Advances Made in America Pickleball Production with Innovation and SBA support
A Tennessee-based manufacturer is expanding USA-made production and developing sustainable products.
Omni Tech Manufacturing, a family-owned plastics manufacturer based in Dyersburg, Tennessee, has been producing custom molded products since 1982. Founded by Jimmy Deese, the company has grown from a small manufacturing operation into a business producing products for major companies across the country while continuing to invest in American manufacturing and innovation.
Start with a mission
Deese founded Omni Tech Manufacturing with a passion for manufacturing and building products. What began with building boat trailers eventually evolved into plastics manufacturing, where the company found its niche producing custom molded products and quick-turn solutions.
Over the years, the company continued to grow while remaining rooted in family leadership and hands-on problem solving. Deese works alongside his grandson, Hunter Cartwright, who recently stepped into the role of president as the next generation prepares to continue building the business.
"We wanted to continue on with the family and make sure the business would be sustainable." - Jimmy Deese
With a small team of seven employees, Omni Tech Manufacturing operates multiple shifts through automation while continuing to focus on flexibility, efficiency, and customer service.
Support from SBA
In 2005, Omni Tech Manufacturing received an SBA-backed loan through Security Bank that helped transform the company's operations and position it for long-term growth.
At the time, the company needed additional production and warehouse space to continue expanding. The funding allowed Omni Tech Manufacturing to construct new buildings, increase production capacity, and modernize operations.
"We would not be here had it not been for an SBA loan. That loan put us over the top in business and got us running wide open." - Jimmy Deese
In addition to financing support, Omni Tech Manufacturing has also participated in SBA-related manufacturing roundtables and networking events to connect with additional resources and industry partners.
Results of SBA support
The SBA-backed investment helped Omni Tech Manufacturing expand its operations and production capabilities. The company now operates automated production across multiple shifts, including automated manufacturing during second and third shift operations.
That growth also allowed Omni Tech Manufacturing to diversify its production while continuing to serve long-term customers, including major manufacturers and scientific suppliers. The company produces millions of specialized components annually while maintaining a strong focus on flexibility and quick turnaround service.
Everyone on the team takes on multiple responsibilities, helping the company remain adaptable while operating efficiently with a lean workforce. That flexibility has helped Omni Tech Manufacturing remain competitive while continuing to invest in new ideas, automation, and product development.
Driving Made in America manufacturing through pickleball production
One of Omni Tech Manufacturing's newest initiatives is producing USA-made pickleballs using USA-made resin, becoming one of only a small number of domestic manufacturers currently producing pickleballs in the United States.
The demand for USA-made pickleballs continues to grow as consumers look for higher-quality domestic alternatives.
"Right now, the number one approved pickleball is made in China. We want to change that, so we now are in production with USA-made pickleball with USA-made resin." - Jimmy Deese
While tariffs created challenges around machinery and production costs, they also created new opportunities for domestic manufacturers competing against overseas products.
"It's wonderful if it's made in the USA, but it's fantastic if it's made in Tennessee." - Jimmy Deese
Omni Tech Manufacturing has earned a certification through USA Pickleball for professional play approval.
Building sustainable manufacturing solutions
Omni Tech Manufacturing has also spent years investing in sustainable bioplastic products made from plant-based materials.
The company has worked with compostable resins for more than a decade and continues developing products designed to reduce waste and create more sustainable manufacturing solutions.
Current projects include compostable agricultural planting products and modular shipping pallets made from plant-based materials designed to break down naturally over time.
"It looks like plastic and feels like plastic, but it's plant-based." - Jimmy Deese
The company is also exploring additional opportunities using plant-based and biodegradable materials across new product categories.
Final thoughts
As Omni Tech Manufacturing continues to grow, the company remains focused on innovation, sustainability, and continuing its family legacy in manufacturing.
For more information on SBA loan programs and resources, visit www.sba.gov.