Research shows EXISTING businesses create 60% to 90% of all new jobs.

Communities that actively implement an on-going BR&E program focusing on the retention and expansion of local businesses will:

• Improve the business climate of the community
• Help to make local businesses remain competitive
• Increase employment
• Stabilize the local economy

The Ohio Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) Initiative provides the resources, training and tools to develop the capacity of the community to better understand its economy.  In addition to enhanced community capacity to address critical community issues, other outcomes of such community engagement include a streamlined BR&E process that enables local leaders to focus on planning, action and results; a database of local information, and; a more robust local economy.  Nearly 9 out of 10 Initiative members have rated the program as 'HIGH VALUE'.

BR&E Program Overview

  Audio Podcast  (21 minute mp3 file) or Audio Podcast Transcript (54 KB pdf file)

"We had a prospect who was looking into constructing a new building.  However, he'd heard mixed reviews about our Planning Process.  I showed him our most recent survey findings so he could see how our Planning Process was rated by the business community.  He indicated that the information was helpful and at this time it looks like he is going ahead with the project."

-Brent Painter, Economic Development Office, City of Strongsville

"The Initiative has helped me to establish relationships with employers, understand their needs, and respond with appropriate programming.  The trust that has been built [between local development officials and businesses] has been particularly important and it's strength was tested after a tornado devastated one of our business parks a few years ago."

 -Nancy Bowen, Van Wert County Economic Development Director

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