News & Media

Assembling the Right Site Selection Team

Monday, May 18, 2020

Your company has just decided to invest in a new facility expansion, and you have been chosen to lead the effort. Perhaps you have specific knowledge about a certain manufacturing process or maybe you are the most trusted individual to the CEO. Whatever landed you the assignment is irrelevant; now you must understand the CEO and the entire company are putting their collective faith in you to succeed at finding the best location for the planned expansion. Read full article.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

Monday, May 18, 2020

For Magdalah R. Silva, joining Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network (DWEN) was a game changer right from the start. As co-founder, CEO, and president of DMS International—an information and technology services company for the Federal government and the private sector—Magdalah attended the 2019 DWEN Summit in Singapore along with other global women entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders. It was there that she connected with Dell representatives and other women who understand the role data and technology play in driving global growth. Read full article.

How Is the Pandemic Affecting Location Decisions in the Food & Beverage Industry?

Monday, May 18, 2020

I've been fortunate to have some great conversations with economic developers over the past few weeks, with many questions on the pandemic's impact on site location decisions for the food and beverage Industry. While nothing is certain, I've read and attached links to some important insights which I would like to share with those who currently or plan to target this industry. Be very aware that: Disruption of reliable demand and labor shortages have resulted in huge supply chain inefficiencies, leaving too much food in the wrong places. New facility locations that process products that heavily rely on predictable supply chain will n...

The Future of Manufacturing Site Selection is Connected

Monday, May 18, 2020

Top Site Selection Concerns for Heavy Manufacturing Companies When you think of heavy manufacturing, utilities and transportation logistics infrastructure is key for those operations. So, for example, you have operations with demands in the 400 megawatt or the 200 megawatts range. Some smaller heavy-industrial operations require 10 to 20 megawatts – which is already a big operation in terms of electricity demand. It’s not that you find a lot of locations that are ready with 400 megawatts waiting for that operation to come. It's important to find locations that can meet this type of electricity demand, and you can couple tha...

It’s Time to Participate in the 2020 U.S. Census

Friday, May 01, 2020

Residents of Violet Township! We need your help to increase our census participation numbers. Help us to ensure that Violet Township is accurately represented in the 2020 U.S. Census. We understand that there has been some confusion caused by COVID-19. However, the Census is still ongoing and important to our community. The Economic Impact is Significant The U.S. Census is conducted in the United States every 10 years. The Census aims to count the entire population of the United States. The Census asks American households certain questions such as sex, age, and race of each person in the household. These demographics hel...

10 Site Selection and Economic Development Takeaways from the COVID-19 Crisis

Thursday, April 30, 2020

Over extended and overly risky supply chains are no longer tolerable. Coronavirus is providing new and forceful momentum for the reshoring of manufacturing investment back to the U.S. from China and elsewhere. Our nation’s medical devices and biopharma sector — now dangerously concentrated in China — must be the first in line to disinvest there and reinvest back here in the States. Currently, less than 30% of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) -producing facilities are in the U.S. - while the number of Chinese facilities has more than doubled since 2010. The recent bipartisan bill introduced by Senator Blackburn (R-Tennessee) an...

COVID-19 - Suffocating the global medical supply chain, while breathing life into its future.

Thursday, April 30, 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exposed the vulnerabilities of the United States’ reliance on imported medical supplies and equipment. Global manufacturers of these much-needed products have had capacities curtailed due to shutdowns, social distancing, and travel restrictions. At the same time more than 50 countries around the world have embargoed or restricted exports of items like personal protective equipment (PPE), ventilators and other much-needed medical equipment and pharmaceutical products. COVID-19 is suffocating the global medical supplies and equipment supply chain. Supply disruption, increasing regulatory controls and a heightened demand have led to critical shortages of PPE and medical equipment in th...

Spending All Day At Your Desk? Four Exercises To Boost Productivity When Working From Home

Thursday, April 30, 2020

We knew sitting all day was not a healthy lifestyle choice, even before the coronavirus hit. Now, however, without commutes to get us walking, or the ability to stroll down office hallways to see a colleague or join a meeting, it’s even easier to spend all day in one chair, with little movement. “Spending all that time online can be grueling,” says Marie Di Virgilio, a core faculty member with Benedictine University’s Ph.D./D.B.A. program in Values-Driven Leadership, for senior executives. Read full article.

The Secret To Retail Success Post Coronavirus? Adopting A Consumer-Centric Approach

Thursday, April 30, 2020

Fashion retail was facing unprecedented upheaval long before any of us had even heard of coronavirus or could imagine a situation where all stores would be forced to close and the world would be in global lockdown. This pre-coronavirus need for change was being driven by shrinking margins and an increase in nimble new entrants to the market who were growing their market share at a rapid pace, striping away sales from large incumbent brands and retailers. For the majority of retail businesses, trying to evolve and keep pace in recent years has been a painful experience as it’s meant questionin...

American Retail Reopens—Sort Of: A State-By-State Guide To What’s Back

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

The stores of American retailing are starting to reopen—at least some of them, in some places and at some times. As the coronavirus pandemic stretches into its third month on Friday, states and businesses across the country are making fateful decisions on reopening. These acts are accompanied by copious rules and regulations on social distancing, health and safety measures, and reprogrammed shopping procedures—all of which are dependent on shoppers and store employees to both obey and embrace. Read full article.

Ohio AgriBuisiness not quite business as usual

Wednesday, April 29, 2020

On April 27, Governor Mike DeWine announced a gradual plan for reopening Ohio’s economy after six weeks of a mandatory stay-at-home order that expires on May 1. The Responsible Restart Ohio plan has three phases: On May 1, medical procedures that do not require an overnight stay can proceed On May 4, manufacturing, distribution, and construction businesses may reopen, provided they can meet mandatory safety requirements for customers and employees On May 4, general office environments may reopen, provided they can meet mandatory safety requirements for customers and employees On May 12, consumer, retail and services, may reopen, provided they can meet mandatory safety requirement...

April 27, 2020 State Legislative Leaders Outline Plans for Re-Opening State Ahead of Governor’s Announcement

Monday, April 27, 2020

Governor DeWine is expected to announce his plans for re-opening the state, a delay of several days compared to the initial release date of April 23. Ohio’s legislative leaders have released their plans for re-opening the state. The Ohio House of Representatives plan, Open Ohio Responsibly Framework, shows signatures from 23 state legislators on the plan’s release. The Ohio Senate’s Minority Caucus outlined their priorities for re-opening in letter to Gov. DeWine which was signed by that chamber’s Democratic leadership team. In addition, Senator Matt Huffman, a Lima Republican and next in line to be President of the Ohio Senate...

FCC Commissioners Sharply Disagree on U.S. Broadband Report

Monday, April 27, 2020

A Federal Communications Commission report Friday indicated that the U.S. is making progress on closing the digital divide, but FCC commissioners don’t agree on how much progress has been made. The 2020 Broadband Deployment Report showed that very high-speed broadband service (250 Mbps/25 Mbps) can be accessed by roughly 85 percent of citizens — a number that has gone up by 47 percent since 2017. The report attributes this and other gains to the $80 billion invested in broadband infrastructure in 2018, a significant increase in fiber-to-the-home projects in 2019 and the advent of 5G technology. Read full article.

Here’s what DeWine’s plan to reopen Ohio says, what businesses must do

Monday, April 27, 2020

COLUMBUS — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine today outlined a phased-in approach to reopening the state for business. The plan calls for some efforts to begin May 1 and others be added throughout the month. DeWine said, “We know there is a great desire to get restaurants fully open and to get hair salons and daycares open, but we must first start down the pathway of opening things up where we thought there was less risk and a more controllable risk.” Read full article.

Many Ohio businesses to reopen in May with masks required

Monday, April 27, 2020

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s first steps toward reopening the state after more than a month of strict stay-at-home orders will require masks for workers and shoppers, while giving hope for businesses eager to open their doors again and indefinitely putting off Ohioans’ return to restaurants, barbershops and gyms. The much anticipated return to normalcy will happen slowly, with the reopening of many health care offices on Friday. Retail stores will need to wait two weeks before they can open, DeWine said Monday. Read full article.

Central Ohio bike, running shops keep customers moving during pandemic

Saturday, April 25, 2020

Running stores and bicycle shops, along with their customers, are finding creative ways to cope with the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic that has shuttered storefronts throughout Ohio and kept most people confined to their homes. Deemed essential businesses, stores in central Ohio that sell running shoes and bicycles are adapting to ensure social distancing and depress the spread of the coronavirus. Shops are doing as much as they can online to avoid contact between employees and customers, using videoconferencing in concert with their own software to minimize the time patrons spend in the stores. Read full article.

Small Business Survival Series: Bruce Katz

Thursday, April 23, 2020

Bruce Katz: I run a finance lab at Drexel University and work as a partner with Accelerator for America. I’ve been very focused on trying to codify these local relief funds that are emerging around the country. Grant Baskerville (Sorenson Impact Center): Bruce, if I can pick up on the excellent piece that you coauthored with Colin Higgins and Michael Saadine, you very effectively stratify the different levels of activity that happen city, state, and federal levels. We’d love your input on this. Read full article.

JobsOhio, Peoples Bank and First Federal/Home Savings Bank Partner to Provide Lending Support for Ohio Small Businesses

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

COLUMBUS, Ohio, April 21, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, JobsOhio, Peoples Bank and First Federal/Home Savings Bank announced a partnership to support existing small business clients with maintaining operations and payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic. JobsOhio has committed up to $50 million to assist Peoples Bank and recently merged First Federal Bank and Home Savings Bank – with providing lending support to companies negatively affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Read full article.

US Senate approves $484bn funding for small businesses, hospitals

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

Washington, DC - The United States Senate approved legislation worth $484bn to provide funding for a small business jobs programme, hospitals overrun by the coronavirus outbreak, and a national testing impetus to help tamp down the pandemic. The Senate bill, agreed to in advance by the White House, allocates $25bn for a testing strategy that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democrats insisted was key to reopening the US economy. The bill calls on the Trump administration to define a strategy to provide nationwide testing and report on that plan to Congress. Read full article.

Which businesses will be the first to reopen in Ohio?

Tuesday, April 21, 2020

COLUMBUS, Ohio —Which businesses will be the first to open in Ohio? It's complicated, Gov. Mike DeWine said. The governor vaguely discussed Tuesday which businesses will be permitted to reopen in the first phase of the state's plan to jump-start the economy. Reopening the state will be a slow process with multiple phases – one that Gov. Mike DeWine hopes to begin May 1. Read full article.

OHIO WILL BEGIN REOPENING BUSINESSES IN PHASES STARTING MAY 1 AS STATES PLAN LIFTING CORONAVIRUS RESTRICTIONS

Thursday, April 16, 2020

Republican Ohio Governor Mike DeWine announced Thursday that he was looking at plans to reopen businesses in the state in phases on May 1 even as the coronavirus pandemic in the U.S. continues, with some states extending stay-at-home orders or forming alliances to determine the best time to reopen. President Donald Trump has expressed his desire to reopen businesses in the U.S. but has said that that will happen at the discretion of state governors. Read full article.

US Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Save Small Business Fund

Thursday, April 16, 2020

To extend a helping hand to small businesses suffering from the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation – in partnership with Vistaprint and a coalition of supporting companies, foundations, and philanthropic donors – is working to provide financial relief through the “Save Small Business Fund”. The “Save Small Business Fund” is a grant-making initiative to offer $5,000 grants that provide short-term relief for employers across the United States. These one-time supplemental cash grants are for businesses that have between 3-20 employees and operate in an economically vulnerable community (you can search eligibility by zip code here). I know your busines...

Automotive Site Selection in Small and Rural Communities

Thursday, April 09, 2020

Site Selection Factors for the Automotive Industry The U.S., Mexico, Canada Agreement (USMCA), for example, which has now higher local [requirements] content. So before, the local content for automotive projects was at about 62%, and now they raised it to 75%, which means you have to manufacture much more in the U.S. For example, Germans like to ship in the engine but that is a very large part [of the car]. So, the whole supply chain is changing. And then, with all the new agreements with China, for example, the tariff war going on, back and forth, how many tariffs ar...

How Leah Pritchett Turned Her Drag Racing Hobby Into A Career

Thursday, April 09, 2020

Leah Pritchett’s love for drag racing started at a young age—thanks to her father who was a land speed racer and dreamt of racing with his family. What started as a hobby when Pritchett was eight years old later became Pritchett’s passion that she turned into a career. Now, Pritchett—who won her first career national event in 2016—has risen to the top of a male-dominated sport. But as women become more successful in the racing world, she’s optimistic that it’ll inspire others to go after new and bigger opportunities. Read full article.

Milestones and Incentives in the Site Selection Process

Thursday, April 09, 2020

The Biggest Misperception About the Incentive Process I think a lot of companies that aren't familiar with the incentive process come to us and have the misconception that they simply make some commitments, they sign a lease, shake the hand of the mayor, and receive a check. It's actually a much more complex process than that. It requires working with the municipalities for multiple years in order to show that you've met the commitments to receive the incentives that have been awarded based on the company's performance. Read full article.

Our Focus is Talent: JobsOhio Invests $1.5M in Northwest Ohio Talent Pipeline Development

Thursday, April 09, 2020

In early 2020, JobsOhio announced its 2019 results, as well as a Go Forward Strategy, which introduced an increased focus on its Talent Expansion Services and production initiative aimed at growing in-demand degrees in the state by up to 50%. In March, we made a $1.5 million investment to seed manufacturing talent production. Working with Regional Growth Partnership (RGP), JobsOhio’s economic development partner in northwest Ohio, we engaged with 30 manufacturing businesses in the region to map critical skills, identify employer needs, and assess the education landscape and capacity to fill those job requirements. With that research, RGP and JobsOhio determined that there ar...

Redevelopment of Former Coal Plant Sites

Thursday, April 09, 2020

Coal-fired power plants across the United States shut down in 2019 at the second-fastest pace on record. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), plants with a combined total of more than 15,100 megawatts ceased operating nationwide last year — enough to power 15 million homes, and second only to the number of megawatts retired during 2015. The reasons behind these closures are many: decreasing wholesale prices, competition from comparatively cheap and plentiful alternate energy sources such as natural gas, subsidized solar and wind energy, continued compliance with federal energy regulations, and public concern over coal’s effect on climat...

Research, Engineering, and Design: The Talent Cluster in a Talent-Focused World

Thursday, April 09, 2020

Where’s the talent? Ask a corporate executive or a site selection consultant the number-one factor driving location decisions and the response will be skilled labor. In Area Development’s 33rd Annual Corporate Survey and 15th Annual Consultants Survey, “availability of skilled labor” ranked number one on both surveys — not surprising while reinforcing talent-focused strategies. If talent is the number-one factor, why do so many economic development strategies focus on clusters of companies versus clusters of talent? A New Approach One benefit of starting a new regional economic development organization is the ability to consider new approaches without being tied to previous thinking. A...

What Will the City of the Future Look Like?

Thursday, April 09, 2020

The city of the future will be more walkable, connected, educated and infrastructure-laden than what currently passes for a competitive location. According to a recent survey of economists and site selection consultants, the “must-have” ingredients for the most competitive locations of the future won’t come easy or cheap, but they will be indispensable to attract growing businesses and the talent needed to make them thrive. Read full article.

LongHorn: Free meals show stake in Pickerington community during coronavirus pandemic

Monday, April 06, 2020

As belts tighten and the state is under a stay-at-home order because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, the management and staff members at LongHorn Steakhouse in Pickerington were among those extending a helping hand. From March 23 to 26, LongHorn, 1740 Hill Road N., gave away 225 hot meals to anyone who called in to pick them up between 2 and 4 p.m. The restaurant gave away another 30 meals – 6-ounce steak salads for adults and steak and broccoli or fruit for children – April 1. Read full article.

Pickerington Schools officials continue COVID-19 protocols

Monday, April 06, 2020

Following Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine’s March 30 order that schools remain closed until May 1 because of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, Pickerington Schools will continue to educate students using distance learning. The district has employed online-learning protocols since March 17, after Ohio’s K-12 schools initially were ordered closed for three weeks. Read full article.

Plain Township Fire Department opens substation at New Albany-Plain Local bus garage

Friday, April 03, 2020

As part of its response to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, the Plain Township Fire Department has opened a substation at the New Albany-Plain Local School District bus garage facility 1 mile north of the fire station. Township administrator Ben Collins said part of the pandemic-response protocol is to separate personnel so they are not all subject to an exposure. Because the township has one fire station at 9500 Johnstown Road, it required a second location for personnel, Collins said. Read full article.

Central Ohio businesses manufacture, distribute PPE for medical workers

Thursday, April 02, 2020

CANAL WINCHESTER, Ohio (WSYX/WTTE) — The state says hundreds of Ohio businesses have signed up to help manufacture personal protective equipment in the wake of the pandemic. "We know we have a shortage and so we're asking the manufacturers step up look at what their capacity is, see what you can do," said Governor Mike DeWine at Thursday afternoon's press conference. Read full article.

Ohio takes steps to increase access to high-speed internet

Thursday, April 02, 2020

COLUMBUS — Ohio officials are moving forward with a plan aimed at improving access to high-speed internet across the state, a push that could see renewed interest in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. The new BroadbandOhio office will implement the Ohio Broadband Strategy, which the state released in 2019. The plan, in part, calls for the Ohio Department of Transportation to allow more access to state-owned rights of way to construct internet infrastructure. Read full article.

Relief available to Ohio’s small businesses

Thursday, April 02, 2020

As we all know, small businesses serve as the economic engines that drive communities across our state. Their success is Ohio’s success, and we must never fail to support them. This has become increasingly true as we continue to combat the COVID-19 crisis. Right now, as our nation faces a pandemic, our businesses hang in the balance. The current crisis has brought about no shortage of new anxieties as job creators and employees alike face unprecedented challenges. As our public health officials tackle the medical aspects of containing this virus, public finance officials are zeroing in on preserving our economy. Read full article.

DeWine: Jobs Ohio investing $2M into southeast Ohio

Wednesday, April 01, 2020

COLUMBUS — At his news conference, Gov. Mike DeWine spoke of economic aid for southeast Ohio during the coronavirus pandemic. “One of the great assets we have in Ohio is Jobs Ohio — I’ve asked them to think about how they can be value-added when this is over,” he said. “I’ve asked the board to think of ways they can help our economy.” DeWine said Jobs Ohio is announcing that it is providing a $2 million growth fund loan to Appalachian Growth Capital, or AGC. Read full article.

Support the businesses supporting Ohio’s essential agriculture

Wednesday, April 01, 2020

It has been made very clear by the DeWine Administration that Ohio agriculture is essential because of the vital importance of farmers and their service to society. But, during these challenging times, it is also important to remember those who serve Ohio’s essential farmers. There has been plenty mentioned about getting take-out to support your local favorite dining hotspots that may be feeling a real pinch right now. It is just as important to remember other parts of the service and supply chains that allow Ohio’s essential farmers to do what they do during the coronavirus measures taken by the stat...

Why You Fear Public Speaking and How to Overcome It

Wednesday, April 01, 2020

Public speaking continues to be a top fear of humanity. Whether you’re speaking to a group of 10 or 10,000, public speaking is nerve-wracking. Yet most professionals agree that public speaking is a powerful skill capable of transforming one's business or career. As a professional speaker for over eight years, I’ve had experience training small groups of executives, pitching business plans to key stakeholders and delivering keynote presentations to thousands of people around the world. The below is my best advice for removing anxiety before any presentation. Read full article.

Tourism agencies turn focus to helping Ohio businesses survive

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

CLEVELAND — The coronavirus pandemic has both local and state tourism agencies taking a break from showing Ohioans some fantastic tourist spots the state has to offer and focusing instead on business that could use your support during the shutdown. Locally, Destination Cleveland said that it is refocusing priorities and streamlining operations “due to unprecedented economic conditions.” Read full article.

Brooklyn adds city’s first full-time economic development director and city planner

Monday, March 30, 2020

BROOKLYN, Ohio -- Mayor Katie Gallagher recently hired Brooklyn’s first full-time economic development director and city planner. Formerly with the City of Independence, Jeremy Rowan, who starts today (March 30), replaces part-time economic development director Andi Udris. “Andi is in the process of starting his full-time retirement from public service,” Gallagher said. “Knowing I wanted to hire a planner, he said this is a good opportunity to get both -- somebody who knows how to do planning and economic development.” Read full article.

OEDA Launches COVID-19 Resource Center

Monday, March 30, 2020

OEDA has launched a COVID-19 Resource Center on its website. The Resource Center provides Ohio’s economic development community with resources to help practitioners best serve their business community during the COVID-19 outbreak. OEDA will do all that we can to provide factual information and helpful resources you need as leaders in those efforts. You can click HERE or go to the “Get The Latest” tab and click on the COVID-19 Resources in the list of helpful links on the far left side of the page. Read full article.

Table Talk: Restaurateur in northwest Columbus makes most of Oil & Thyme

Monday, March 30, 2020

Despite Ohio’s COVID-19 coronavirus-related ban on dining in at restaurants, new restaurateur Manal Ibrahim has been making lemonade out of lemons. She has partnered with Uber Eats, DoorDash and Grubhub to deliver her healthful and made-from-scratch food. But her first obstacle in launching Oil & Thyme -- Healthy Sandwich Shop in northwest Columbus -- hiring employees -- no longer is a hindrance. Read full article.

Thank You for Making Ohio No. 1!

Monday, March 30, 2020

Ohio has an outstanding economic development network that goes above and beyond for communities, companies and people. By working together toward a common goal, you make a difference. Site Selection Magazine’s Governor’s Cup results are a testament to this unwavering work ethic. You helped make Ohio No. 1! As the No. 1 state for projects per capita and No. 2 for total projects overall, Ohio is the only state in the nation to place in the top three in both Governor’s Cup categories. Read full article.

Violet Township trustees ban through traffic by trucks on several roads

Monday, March 30, 2020

Citing personal- and property-safety concerns, Violet Township officials have moved to ban through traffic by commercial freight and cartage carriers from traveling on several local roadways. Under the ban, beginning April 17, no “through-traffic” will be permitted for trucks or vehicles “used to carry property or freight for commercial purposes” on several Violet Township roads. The ban states: “No vehicular truck shall traverse any restricted route unless that vehicular truck intends to pick up or discharge cargo at a residence or business located on the restricted route, or at a residence or business located on a road only accessible from the restricte...

Somewhere in Particular brewer bubbly about his new hard seltzer

Saturday, March 28, 2020

Brewer Patrick Sullivan said he is not simply hopping on a trend -- he’s making it better. The head brewer and partner of Somewhere in Particular, also know as SIP, said he has created a superlative hard seltzer, called Fun Water, that he introduced March 25 and is ready to hit the local market. “The whole goal was to make something that wasn’t artificial-tasting,” Sullivan said. “It has a good clean flavor that’s more authentic with our interpretation of flavors and superbly drinkable.” Read full article.

City approves joint economic development

Friday, March 27, 2020

An ordinance that authorizes the creation of a joint economic development agreement between the city and Jefferson Township was passed during Wednesday’s Washington Court House City Council meeting. According to City Manager Joe Denen, what this means is a small section of land in Jefferson Township, where the local McKesson facility is planned to relocate to in 2022, will be given an income tax at the same rate of the city’s income tax. Read full article.

How A Navy Officer Turned A Big Idea Into A $118M Business After Service

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Page, a senior and midshipman first class, was developing a thesis project that was helping him graduate from the academy so he could fulfill his dream of becoming a SEAL or naval aviator. But then a senior professor walked into the lab. He wanted to hear about Page’s project. Over the next few hours, Page explained a new kind of water treatment technology, an idea he had since high school. When the student finished his presentation, the teacher flipped his notebook over and looked at him. Read full article.

Riffle Machine Works’ Multiphase Expansion is Finally Complete

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

Company Name: Riffle Machine Works, Inc. Location: Chillicothe Industry Sector: Automotive Company Profile: Founded in 1980, Riffle Machine Works — a provider of machine, fabrication, warehousing and assembly of truck parts for the automotive industry — began with only three employees. However, the company grew significantly in 2001 when they received their first assembly line project from Kenworth. This resulted in a few expansions over the years, from an initial 50,000-square-foot facility to the current 300,000 square feet between 2007 and 2016. Read full article.

JobsOhio Commits to Working Closely with State and Partners Through COVID-19 Pandemic

Thursday, March 19, 2020

Following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as Governor Mike DeWine, the JobsOhio board of directors held its quarterly public board of directors meeting via live webinar on March 17, 2020. While JobsOhio reported its results of ongoing initiatives, it also addressed the current COVID-19 pandemic and how it plans to work with the state to support Ohio businesses during this time. JobsOhio President and Chief Investment Officer J.P. Nauseef thanked Governor DeWine, Lt. Governor Jon Husted and Health Director Dr. Amy Acton for their clarity and leadership for Ohio and the nation during this unprecedente...

Broadband Conference Could Lead to Help for Rural Areas

Thursday, February 27, 2020

State Representative Gary Scherer recently hosted a public meeting in Circleville to discuss broadband coverage in his district. Scherer says “Connected Nation Ohio held seven Rural Broadband Forums throughout the state and after attending the Newark session, I knew that we needed to hold an eighth forum in the 92nd house district,” said Scherer. “Broadband access is a significant issue among many constituents. As I tell the people around the Statehouse, my home is only 25 miles from downtown Columbus and yet we have little to no broadband access.” Read full article.

Munchies sports bar opens in Reynoldsburg with ‘taste of Mexico’

Thursday, February 27, 2020

After more than a year of renovation, a former Japanese steakhouse has been transformed into an American sports bar with a touch of Tex-Mex. Munchies Comfort Food and Drinks opened last month at 2045 Brice Road, Reynoldsburg, in the building that housed a Genji Japanese Steakhouse for more than 20 years. “It’s been quite a journey; it took us a little over a year,” said Sarai Pulido, who runs the restaurant with her husband, Victor. “It’s our baby, so like any mother you think your child is beautiful. So for me this place is beautiful. There’s detail in everything that we di...

Husted leads discussion on Edison’s Ohio TechCred program

Tuesday, February 25, 2020

PIQUA — The changing workforce in Ohio and qualifications for employment are challenges business owners face every day. The state is hoping the TechCred program will provide training for current and future workers for employers. Lt. Gov. Jon Husted led a roundtable discussion on the program at Edison State Community College on February 24th. Read full article.

The future of retail in the US: industry trends and market trends

Monday, February 24, 2020

Retail sales volume was higher in 2019 than ever before — and it will only continue trending upward as the entire experience becomes more streamlined and frictionless for customers. However, the face of the industry is changing rapidly; Business Insider Intelligence recently reported that in 2019 ecommerce sales surpassed 10% of total retail sales for the first time ever. The growing online trend impacts both e-tailers and brick-and-mortar sellers. Because merchants must embrace ecommerce to boost their own growth, the roles of solutions providers like BigCommerce and Shopify, as well as marketplaces like Amazon, could expand further in the coming years, due t...

Manufacturing Accounts for 20% of Regional Economy

Saturday, February 22, 2020

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio –Projected job openings and the potential for growth through technology could be keys in accelerating the manufacturing industry in northeastern Ohio, concludes a pair of industry reports. The region’s $42.6 billion manufacturing industry employs more than 270,000 workers and is responsible for 20% of its economy, according to the Quarterly Economic Review from Team NEO, a nonprofit economic development organization covering 18 counties in northeastern Ohio. Read full article.

Report finds Ohio is a commercial real estate powerhouse

Friday, February 21, 2020

Ohio is a commercial real estate powerhouse, according to a new report published by the NAIOP Research Foundation. The state is No. 7 nationwide for contributions to state GDP created by commercial real estate development, creating and supporting 146,787 related jobs and contributing $20.1 billion to Ohio's economy in 2019, the report finds. The six states ranked above Ohio by commercial real estate development impact are Texas ($54.1 billion), California ($34.5 billion), New York ($31.8 billion), Virginia ($28.1 billion), Georgia ($27.5 billion) and Florida ($25.8 billion). Go here for a breakdown of the top 10 states. State reports are here. Read full article.

'Opportunity Zone' offers potential for downtown

Thursday, February 20, 2020

Cleveland Mayor Kevin Brooks said during a recent presentation that a sector of the city’s downtown area meets the requirements as a qualified Opportunity Zone, where investors can benefit from tax breaks offered through the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The mayor’s remarks were made during the Bradley Sunrise Rotary Club’s weekly meeting held at Elks Lodge No. 1944. Brooks said the tax incentives will benefit the entire Whirlpool and Old Woolen Mill area downtown, as well as South Lee Highway, adding that they are the sole areas in Bradley County that qualify for the tax incentives. Read full article.

Delta lifts off with $1 billion pledge to become carbon neutral

Thursday, February 20, 2020

Delta Air Lines has become the latest aviation company setting its sights on becoming "carbon neutral," with an ambition to reach that target by 2030 and pledge to invest $1 billion in achieving the goal over the next 10 years. The investment will focus on driving innovation, advancing clean air travel technologies, accelerating reductions in waste and emissions, and establishing new offsetting and natural carbon sequestration projects, the company said. Read full article.

Small business confidence rises, signaling a more positive outlook for the US economy

Thursday, February 20, 2020

Small business sentiment is on the rise to kick off 2020, with confidence nearing all-time highs, according to data from CNBC and SurveyMonkey. The CNBC/SurveyMonkey Small Business Confidence Index climbed two points in the first quarter, from 59 to 61, as concerns over trade policy impacts lessened, thanks to a trade deal with China and the signing of the USMCA. This is a sharp turnaround from the lows seen last summer as trade turmoil weighed on Main Street’s outlook. The Small Business Confidence Index is calculated based on entrepreneurs’ responses to a set of eight questions about their businesses as part o...

The Hidden Power of Guarantees in Community Development Finance

Thursday, February 20, 2020

If you’ve ever had someone co-sign a loan for you, then you know how a guarantee works. That other person, maybe a parent or relative, is promising the bank that in case you can’t make your monthly payment, they’ll make the payment in your place. If all goes well, your parent or relative may never need to step up for you. This process is often a formality, but it can also be a prohibitive barrier if you don’t have a parent or relative with good credit. Guarantees are a very common tool to support financial institutions themselves. The Federal Deposit Insuranc...

Violet Township Women’s League scholarship program hits $100,000 milestone

Monday, February 17, 2020

The Violet Township Women’s League will reach milestones in giving in 2020 through its annual scholarship program. Thanks to donations from members, businesses and others in the community, as well as funds raised through the club’s annual Scholarship Style Show & Luncheon, the organization has been able to provide financial assistance to graduating seniors who live in the Pickerington Schools district and Violet Township as they pursue higher education at four-year colleges, two-year associate’s-degree colleges and trade schools. Read full article.

Cuyahoga County considers $1.5M loan for Saucy Brew Works brewery, production facility in Independence

Thursday, February 13, 2020

CLEVELAND, Ohio — Cuyahoga County is considering a $1.5 million loan to Saucy Brew Works for a new brewpub and production facility in Independence. The Cuyahoga County Community Improvement Corporation, which reviews proposed economic development projects, has recommended the county award the loan, pending approval by County Council. Read full article.

Mayor details plans for new police substation, grocery store during State of the City

Thursday, February 13, 2020

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX/WTTE) — In his State of the City address Thursday, Mayor Andrew Ginther started the evening in what he called a "non-traditional" way. "Black people and communities of color are angry, frustrated, tired and even fearful about many things happening around the country and in the City of Columbus," he said at the start of the night. It was a point that comes back to what he described as his overarching message: equity. Read full article.

Regional leaders need to join together to stay competitive in the global market

Thursday, February 13, 2020

In 2014, St. Petersburg, Fla. mayor Rick Kriseman and Tampa mayor Bob Buckhorn went on a trade mission to Chile. But, in recognizing that scale matters in such attempts at global competitiveness, the two mayors made their trip not as representatives of two separate cities, but as dual ambassadors of the Tampa Bay region. Prior to the trade mission, the economic development organizations (EDOs) of three neighboring Florida counties—Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco—joined forces to create Global Tampa Bay, aligning their international business engagement strategy in a regional economic partnership. This meant pooling resources, sharing a budget, taking turns as chair, an...

Church & Dwight to invest $38 million, add 60 jobs at OF plant

Wednesday, February 12, 2020

OLD FORT — Church & Dwight Co. Inc. has announced it plans to invest $38 million at its facility in Old Fort to expand one product, add a new one and build a new warehouse. Nick Dutro, development manager for Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership, said final approval for the project depends on approval of state and local incentives. If approved, he said construction is expected to be completed this year, and the company would hire up to 60 new employees. The incentive package was approved Monday night by Old Fort Local School District’s board, Dutro said, and still must be approved by Pleasan...

Spectrum expands broadband access to rural Athens County

Friday, February 07, 2020

Broadband access in Athens County just got a boost from Spectrum Internet, one of the largest internet service companies in the country. At a celebration at the Ohio University Inn and Conference Center on February 7th, representatives from Charter Communications and Spectrum announced the completion of a new 20-mile fiber build that gives broadband access to more than 2,400 houses and businesses in rural parts of the county. “Broadband is a life-changing opportunity for our consumers,” Ron Testa, the area vice president for field operations, said. Read full article.

Taxpayers save $240 million by investing in Ohio opportunity zones

Friday, February 07, 2020

Taxpayers stand to save millions in income tax by reinvesting capital gains into opportunity zones. Opportunity zones are a bipartisan-sponsored federal tax incentive designed to encourage investment in distressed neighborhoods. Many Central Ohio entrepreneurs have started new business ventures in opportunity zones because these federal and state income tax benefits, coupled with other federal and local programs designed to support private investment into opportunity zones, have created a new, tax-advantaged capital market for business investment. Read full article.

JobsOhio creates $4 million fund to lure new flights to Ohio airports, including Cleveland Hopkins

Tuesday, February 04, 2020

CLEVELAND, Ohio — JobsOhio, the economic development arm of state government, has set aside $4 million this year to help Ohio’s airports attract new flights to unserved or underserved markets, including, potentially, highly sought transatlantic service. Airport directors in Ohio have complained for years that they’re at a competitive disadvantage with airports in neighboring states, including Indiana and Pennsylvania, which have funds to lure coveted airline service. Read full article.

Economic Development Administration to award $720,000 grant for disaster recovery

Monday, February 03, 2020

DAYTON, Ohio (WKEF/WRGT) -- On Monday, a $720,000 grant was awarded by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) to the Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission (MVRPC) of Dayton, Ohio. This grant is to assist in hiring a Disaster Recovery Manager, whose job will be to assist the businesses damaged or destroyed by the storms in May of 2019. The Disaster Recovery Manager will also be responsible for preparing a strategy that will enhance the region’s ability to quickly respond to future disasters. Read full article.

Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District to give $150,000 in grants

Monday, February 03, 2020

DAYTON, Ohio (WKEF/WRGT) -- The Montgomery County Arts and Cultural District (MCACD) announced on Monday that it is giving up to $150,000 in funding for the 2020 Montgomery County Special Projects Grants program. MCACD is a special purpose unit of government that was created in 1990 by the Montgomery County Board of County Commissioners. This year marks 30 years of MCACD grant programs, during which time more than $25 million has been awarded to major arts and cultural institutions, community organizations, small emerging arts organizations, and individual artists. Read full article.

20 Conferences That Should Be on Your List for 2020

Saturday, February 01, 2020

Say "yes" to a conference that sparks your interest. It could be the best thing you do all year. It's 2020. Are you ready to say "yes" to your resolutions, bold plans and big goals? The beginning of a new year is a great opportunity to think about all the changes and upgrades you want to make in your business and personal lives. Attending a conference is one of the best ways to add new energy to your life. A great conference will put you in a position to create meaningful relationships, meet new people who can help you (or that you can help), close deals...

Clyburn says House infrastructure plan would expand broadband internet to '100 percent' of US

Thursday, January 30, 2020

House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.) touted a new infrastructure plan being put forth by Democrats. Clyburn told Hill.TV that the comprehensive plan aims to expand broadband internet to "100 percent" of the United States, effectively getting rid of “digital deserts” — or areas without a single internet service provider. Read full article.

Full story: Westerville leaders looking forward to Hot Chicken Takeover’s arrival

Thursday, January 30, 2020

Central Ohioans may “pick your meat” and “pick your heat” when Hot Chicken Takeover opens a fourth area location this summer on Polaris Parkway in Westerville. The company announced in a news release that the Westerville restaurant would be the company’s fifth in Ohio and fourth locally, with other restaurants at Easton Gateway, 4198 Worth Ave.; the North Market, 59 Spruce St.; and Clintonville, 4203 N. High St. The other location is in Westlake, west of Cleveland. Read full article.

Downtown Tiffin earns national accreditation with Heritage Ohio for fourth year

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

For the fourth year, Downtown Tiffin has been re-recognized by Heritage Ohio as a National Main Street Community, according to a news release from Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership. The Ohio Main Street Program, administered by Heritage Ohio, works with communities across the state to revitalize historic commercial areas. Based in historic preservation, the release said it focuses on four points: organization, design, promotions and economic vitality. Each point is an integral part in the revitalization of a downtown area, the release said. Read full article.

The Economic Development Administration’s Five Investment Priorities

Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Knowing your revitalization partner’s priorities adds clarity and saves time. When they are a funder with a competitive grant process, there’s all the more reason to know their priorities. For local communities interested in knowing where the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) is at with their current investment priorities, this month’s speech at the 88th Winter Meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors delivered by Deputy Assistant Secretary for Economic Development and Chief Operating Officer Dennis Alvord pointed the way. Read full article.

$23M in Grants Available for Ohio River Cargo Operations

Tuesday, January 28, 2020

LISBON, Ohio – Businesses along the Ohio River in Columbiana County could qualify for up to $23 million in funding for projects that enhance maritime cargo operations. The Ohio Maritime Assistance Program, or MAP, was announced by the Ohio Department of Transportation, according to Penny Traina, CEO of the Columbiana County Port Authority. Traina advised the port authority’s board of directors about the new funding source during its meeting. Read full article.

Listing makes Scotty’s Cafe’s name known

Tuesday, January 28, 2020

Each day, 84-year-old Ray Pauken makes a trip down East Broad Street from his apartment to Scotty’s Cafe near Bexley. Since his wife died nine years ago, the retired teacher depends on the cozy restaurant for a good meal and some socializing. “There’s no other place like it,” he said. Read full article.

Rep. Scherer to hold public meeting on rural broadband access

Tuesday, January 28, 2020

COLUMBUS—State Rep. Gary Scherer (R-Circleville) has announced that he will be hosting a public meeting, in collaboration with Connected Nation Ohio, to discuss updated broadband coverage maps for Ohio and to hear from constituents about current issues with broadband access. As a leader in rural internet accessibility advocacy, Connected Nation has been instrumental in promoting broadband expansion and technology growth in Ohio. Staying true to their mission, Connected Nation has been working with broadband service providers to accurately map broadband service areas, identify and analyze where broadband coverage is lacking, and create innovative solutions to improve connectivity statewide. Read full article.

Ohio governor chosen to be head of regional economic development commission

Monday, January 27, 2020

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine was elected to be the 2020 state co-chair of the Appalachian Regional Commission, giving him a national platform to improve the region. DeWine, a Republican, was chosen to work with Tim Thomas, the federal co-chair, by the governors of the 13 states that compose the Appalachian Regional Commission, or ARC. A new state co-chair is chosen every year, and the position alternates between Republican and Democratic governors. Read full article.

Reynoldsburg Community Center YMCA opens

Monday, January 27, 2020

The grand opening of the Reynoldsburg Community Center YMCA was held Jan. 25-26 with free classes, workshops, demonstrations, tours and a chance to swim. The 2-story, 75,000-square-foot facility features a fgymnasium and basketball courts, indoor play spaces and 9,000 square feet of strength and cardio equipment. The $30 million facility is a partnership among the city, the YMCA of Central Ohio and OhioHealth. The center will be open 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays; 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays; 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays. Read full article.

Robin Duffee named Violet Township development manager

Friday, January 24, 2020

Violet Township has named Robin Duffee to lead its business recruitment and retention efforts. Duffee, who worked as a development intern for the township from May to August 2018 before being hired on a part-time basis, has been promoted to the full-time development manager’s position. The three township trustees voted unanimously to promote Duffee. Read full article.

‘King of Fairfield’ D’Epifanio remembered for work, passions and friendship

Thursday, January 23, 2020

It’s hard to define former Fairfield mayor Ron D’Epifanio. He was a Marine, former two-term mayor, avid Ohio State fan, faithful Republican, business owner, long-time youth football coach and ordained minister so he could marry couples. D’Epifanio was also an advocate of everything related to the Joe Nuxhall Miracle League Field and passionate friend. Read full article.

Bringing ‘enthusiasm’ to economic development in Streetsboro

Tuesday, January 21, 2020

Streetsboro’s newest economic development director, Patrick O’Malia, started his job this month after being hired in December. Mayor Glenn Broska said O’Malia impressed him on several levels. “The thing that stuck with me most was by far his enthusiasm and his research on the city,” said Broska. “When he came into the interview, he was very prepared as far as knowing what was going on in the city.” Read full article.

IU, U.S. Economic Development Administration launch USA Opportunity Zones website

Wednesday, January 15, 2020

Indiana University and the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration have launched a new online mapping tool that will help business people find Opportunity Zones that aim to steer private investment toward economically distressed areas. The Opportunity Zone initiative passed in 2017 grants capital gains tax cuts and deferrals to investors in designated Opportunity Zones, which locally include portions of Gary, Hammond, East Chicago, Valparaiso, Michigan City and LaPorte. Read full article.

Major reformations of the last decade that will shape US healthcare in 2020

Friday, January 10, 2020

Abhinav Shashank is the cofounder and CEO at Innovaccer Inc. Abhinav has led the San Francisco-based healthcare technology company since its inception in 2014. Under his supervision, Innovaccer developed its proprietary data activation platform. Amazing, breathtaking, reformative, groundbreaking. No single adjective suffices to describe how 2019 changed US healthcare. With the end of the decade, we saw innumerable events happening — from massive health information technology mergers to new major government regulations. While the year was full of exciting events happening all around, 365 days of the year, some incidents took us by surprise, and they pose great uncertainty for the yea...

Things looking up for Ohio’s smaller cities despite challenges, report says

Friday, January 10, 2020

Ohio’s small and mid-sized cities are losing population at a slower rate, seeing declines in unemployment and poverty and upticks in per-capita income. But these cities — Marion, Springfield, Zanesville and Mansfield, for example — still are dealing with many challenges that have hounded them for decades. Read full article.

Port authority names economic development director

Wednesday, January 08, 2020

WILMINGTON — The Clinton County Port Authority announced that it has hired Jennifer Ekey as Economic Development Director. The new Port Authority position marks another step in the community’s collaborative county-wide economic development program. “Jennifer is a recognized leader in economic development — regionally, and throughout the state,” said Port Authority Executive Director Dan Evers. “Adding her to the Port Authority team in support of the economic development program will significantly enhance our ability to deliver the highest quality economic development services to existing and prospective businesses.” Read full article.

Beaumont Health to acquire Ohio healthcare system

Tuesday, January 07, 2020

Southfield-based Beaumont Health announced that it has signed a definitive agreement with Akron, Ohio-based Summa Health to make Summa a subsidiary of Beaumont. The deal is expected to be finalized upon approval from regulatory agencies by the end of March, according to a press release from Beaumont Health. The two not-for-profit health systems had signed a letter of intent in July. Read full article.

Editorial: Ohio has work to do to attract growth for a stronger economy

Saturday, January 04, 2020

One of the most important metrics of a strong economy in the decade just begun will be job creation, so it is distressing to see the state’s poor standing as 2020 begins. And it is hard to understand why Ohio struggles to put up positive numbers for net new jobs as the central Ohio region enjoys continued job growth. The Dispatch encourages the administration of Gov. Mike DeWine and the Republican leaders in the Ohio General Assembly to consider what policies may need to be changed in the coming year to position Ohio for a brighter economic future. Read full article.

Fed policymakers broadly see eye to eye on 2020 outlook

Friday, January 03, 2020

SAN DIEGO/BALTIMORE (Reuters) - Federal Reserve policymakers who last year were frequently at odds over where to set U.S. borrowing costs opened 2020 telegraphing confidence in the state of the economy and signaling broad agreement that monetary policy is right where it should be. In their first remarks in the new year, heads of several regional Fed banks noted a strong job market, robust consumer spending and a rising optimism for a resolution to the trade tensions that had nicked growth in the second half of 2019. And after cutting interest rates three times last year to bring the Fed’s target t...

A “Now, Next, Later” Approach for Dealing with Pandemic Challenges

Monday, May 18, 2020

As the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in the U.S. spread in March, leading to shelter-in-place orders in most states and a rapid slowdown of the national economy, businesses have started adopting Baker Tilly’s “now, next, later” framework in dealing with the pandemic challenges: “Now” is focused on the first 30 days; “next” is focused on the following 60 days; and “later” focusing on 90 days and beyond. The “now” response reflects the immediate reality for businesses – survival. An early March 2020 poll by the National Association of Manufacturers showed 35 percent of manufacturers are facing significant interruptions in supply chain operations, though onl...

How A Navy Officer Turned A Big Idea Into A $118M Business

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

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