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The Insider Newsletter

March 2026

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Site Selection Magazine Recognizes Fremont-Sandusky County as a Top Micropolitan to Do Business

We’re proud to share that Fremont–Sandusky County has been ranked the #4 Micropolitan in the United States by Site Selection magazine, jumping from #19 last year. In 2025, Sandusky County recorded 15 qualifying projects, resulting in more than 1,000 new jobs and over $600 million in new capital investment. This ranking highlights the strength of our business climate and the effectiveness of the partnerships between employers, local communities, the Regional Growth Partnership, JobsOhio, and our investors.

Through SCEDC’s Business Retention & Expansion visits, business attraction efforts, and workforce initiatives, we remain focused on our mission to improve the economic well-being of Sandusky County. Thank you to our investors and partners—your continued support plays a critical role in making Sandusky County a thriving place to live, work, and do business.

Read the Full Article

2026 Annual Meeting of Investors

The SCEDC held its Annual Meeting of Investors on Friday, March 13th at Terra State's Neeley Center, where we had the opportunity to celebrate Sandusky County's achievements in 2025 and discuss the exciting momentum happening for 2026. One of the top highlights included Fremont-Sandusky County's designation as 4th Micropolitan in the Nation by Site Selection magazine. This honor is a great reflection of the support and investments from our local businesses and partners.

A special thank you to our investors and community members who attended and contributed to the success of the event. We are grateful for your commitment to the growth of Sandusky County. We would also like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to our event sponsors:

The City of Fremont
Crown Battery
First National Bank
Fremont Federal Credit Union
Janotta & Herner
The Lathrop Company
Mosser Construction
Ohio Logistics
Regional Growth Partnership/JobsOhio
Rudolph Libbe Group
The Village of Gibsonburg
Whirlpool Corporation

During the meeting, we were honored to have Jim Robey, Principal of Robey Analytics, as our keynote speaker. His presentation, "Navigating Uncertainty: AI and the Dynamics of Change," provided valuable insights into future economic outlooks for the nation and our region.

Together, we are building momentum for continued growth in Sandusky County! Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to our community.

To watch the highlights of 2025, use the link below to watch our Annual Review Video.

SCEDC 2025 Annual Review

Welcome New Investor!

We are thrilled to feature Northwoods Cannabis in this month's newsletter! Recently, they opened a new grow facility in Clyde, marking a significant milestone in their expansion efforts.

Northwoods Cultivation is a community-driven company with deep roots in the Michigan cannabis industry. Their journey began in a college basement and has evolved into a multi-state operation, demonstrating remarkable ambition and resilience. Under the leadership of CEO Brett and his dedicated team, which includes Head Grower Ben and Cultivation Manager Spencer, Northwoods has successfully transitioned from modest beginnings to become a prominent player in the cannabis sector.

At Northwoods, creating a high-quality work environment is a top priority. They understand that when combined with their cutting-edge facility and innovative cultivation techniques, this approach ensures an exceptional product for their consumers. The team places a strong emphasis on collaboration, with activities that foster a sense of unity and shared purpose among employees.

We are excited to see the impact Northwoods Cannabis will have in our community and look forward to their continued success. Welcome to the SCEDC family!

Learn More

Autokiniton to Invest $313M to Expand Bellevue Facility

Autokiniton will invest $313 million to expand its Bellevue manufacturing facility, adding approximately 215,000 sq. ft., new production lines, upgraded rail access, and advanced assembly equipment. The expansion will double the plant’s capacity, create 97 new jobs, and retain roughly 440 existing positions, strengthening the regional automotive supply chain and local workforce opportunities.

LEARN MORE >>

Last Chance to Register: Sandusky County Job Fair

Join us for the Sandusky County Career & Job Exploration Fair on Friday, April 17th, 2026, at the Vanguard Technology Center from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM. This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with local students from all Sandusky County districts who are eager to explore career options and job opportunities.

Whether you are hiring for full-time, part-time, seasonal, or internship positions, we encourage your business to participate. Don't miss out on the chance to showcase your organization and recruit fresh talent!

Space is limited to the first 30 registrants, so secure your spot today and be part of shaping the future workforce of Sandusky County!

Register Here

Student Career Camps Recap

We are excited to highlight our recent Student Career Camps held for Sandusky County high school students, designed to connect them with local career opportunities and inspire their future pathways. Each student was identified through their YouScience aptitude scores, guiding them toward careers that align with their natural strengths. These career camps are tailored to match student skill sets with careers available right here in Sandusky County.

Healthcare Career Camp (2/5/2026)
Students began their day at Terra State Community College, where they engaged with faculty, toured healthcare labs, and participated in hands-on demos. They then visited ProMedica Memorial Hospital for insights from various departments and concluded at Sandusky County Public Health to explore diverse career options. This camp raised awareness about local healthcare opportunities and helped guide students toward their next steps after graduation.

Construction Career Camp (2/25/2026)
Another successful camp spotlighted careers in construction, where students had the chance to engage with instructors from Terra State Community College and Vanguard-Sentinel Career and Technology Centers. They participated in hands-on training at Damschroder Roofing, Inc., guided by the team and owner Dana Howell, who shared his inspiring journey from technician to business owner. The day wrapped up at Mosser Construction's training center, where students learned about leadership pathways and showcased their skills on a mini-excavator.

Engineering Career Camp (3/3/2026)
This new addition allowed students interested in engineering to hear from the University of Toledo's Engineering program and their partnership with Terra State. Students toured Motion Controls Robotics, gaining hands-on experience testing a robot, and visited Crown Battery to learn about various engineering departments.

Mechanics Career Camp (3/10/2026)
Students kicked off this camp at Vanguard-Sentinel Career & Technology Centers, engaging in hands-on activities with mechanics equipment before touring Streaker Tractor Sales for demonstrations. They concluded the day at Throttle Society, exploring the new sales floor and mechanics shop. Many students left with applications, excited about the local opportunities in Sandusky County!

Thank you to all the businesses, educational partners, and participants for guiding our students toward successful career pathways!

Sandusky County Business Connect

How It Works

Sandusky County Business Connect is a program that connects local business owners looking to transition out of their ventures with entrepreneurs eager to take on new opportunities. Our program simplifies the process, acting as a bridge for seamless transitions to keep our local businesses local.

For Entrepreneurs:

View opportunities on our website.
Fill out the prospective buyer form.
Your details will be verified and you may be contacted for further details.
Once verified, the business owner will receive your contact information and they will reach out to discuss a deal.

PROSPECTIVE BUYER FORM >>

For Current Business Owners

Complete the business sale form.
We will review details and reach out with any additional questions.
Your project is announced anonymously under a code name (unless you want the information public).
Our team will send you pre-verified interested buyers, and the rest is up to you!

BUSINESS SALE FORM >>

Current Opportunities

Project Snowproof

A long-standing auto repair shop in Fremont is for sale. For $300,000, it includes equipment but not real estate, which can be leased. The owner offers a year of consultation to aid transition.

Learn More

Project Narnia

Seeking a turn-key business opportunity in Sandusky County? This long-standing commercial glazing business boasts over 50 years of local presence and a loyal customer base with established sales, included equipment, and training provided by the current owner.

Learn More

Local, Regional, & State News

Funding Opportunity Through USDA Rural Development

We are pleased to share a funding opportunity that may benefit companies and producers in our community. The USDA Rural Development Value-Added Producer Grant (VAPG) program is currently available to support agricultural producers looking to expand or diversify through value-added activities. These grants assist in developing new products, strengthening marketing efforts, and increasing revenue from agricultural commodities.

Funding Can Support Activities Such As:

Feasibility studies and business planning
Processing, packaging, and marketing of value-added products
Working capital for launching or expanding value-added product lines

Grant Amounts:

Planning grants up to $50,000
Working capital grants up to $200,000

Applicants are required to provide a 1:1 match for awarded funds. Eligible applicants include independent agricultural producers, producer groups, farmer or rancher cooperatives, and producer-owned business ventures.

For more information and application details, please visit the link provided below.

Learn More

Terra State's Kern Center Updates & Courses

This March, the Kern Center at Terra State offers a diverse lineup of courses—from hands‑on trade and safety training to personal development, arts, and just‑for‑fun classes—designed to help you grow skills, explore new interests, and advance your career. Browse the listings below and register early by clicking the button below or calling 419‑559‑2464.

Personal Growth, Wellness & Lifelong Learning

Leading Diverse Teams (March 18)

Skilled Trades, Technical & Safety Training

Electrical Prints (March 25)
AHA BLS / Basic Life Support (March 27)

Transportation & Workforce Training

CDL‑A Classes (multiple start dates/locations)

Business, Technology & Financial Skills

Excel for Manufacturing (March 19)
Edward Jones: General Investing – 50 & Under (March 19)

Arts, Humanities & Special Interest Courses

WE ARE NOT ALONE! Close Encounters of the Third Kind (March 18)
Fun with Poetry (March 23)
Blues for a Red Planet (March 23)
Mothers of Presidents: Part 3 (March 24)
Travelers’ Tales (March 24)
President Hayes Back Home in Fremont, 1881–1893 (March 30)

Just for Fun

Cooking Class: Italian Homemade Spaghetti (March 30)

Learn More

Complete the Sandusky County Comprehensive Plan Survey

Help shape the future of Sandusky County! The Sandusky County Regional Planning is updating the county's comprehensive plan and needs your input. Participate in a quick, anonymous survey to share your thoughts on land use, parks, transportation, housing, and more. Your responses will play a crucial role in guiding our community's development.

Take the Survey

Webinar - The Space In Between: Mastering the Change in Fast-Paced Manufacturing

The Center to Advance Manufacturing is hosting a practical webinar focused on how strategic pauses can reduce missteps, accelerate transformation, and create momentum that lasts.

Attendees will learn how manufacturing teams can move from reacting under pressure to responding with clarity and confidence, turning fast-paced change into deliberate action that delivers strong results.

Date: Thursday, March 19th, 2026

Time: 12:00 pm

Register

Register Today

Tax Incentive for Manufacturers: Qualified Production Property

U.S. manufacturers may be eligible for tax benefits under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) through the Qualified Production Property (QPP) incentive. This provision allows for a 100% deduction on the cost of real property used in manufacturing activities and 100% Bonus Depreciation in the first year.

To utilize this incentive, construction start dates must be before January 1, 2029, and the property must be placed in service before January 1, 2031.

Manufacturers should consult with their tax advisors to assess eligibility and application. For additional inquiries or specific information on these provisions, Clouse Construction can be contacted at [email protected] or 419-448-1365.

Small Business, Big Impact

Small Business Highlight

Business: Witchy Vibes

Location: 300 Garrison Street, Suite 204, Fremont

Established in 2022 and led by Fremont native April Halm, E-RYT 500, Witchy Vibes offers accessible and holistic wellness services. April combines anatomy-based yoga for pain relief and improved sleep with hands-on Reiki treatments and Tarot guidance, nurturing mind, body, and spirit.

In addition to personalized sessions, Witchy Vibes features a variety of essential oil products, including room sprays, therapeutic inhalers, calming candles, and more.

Visit Witchy Vibes to explore their services and products!

Are you a small business owner looking to gain more visibility in our community? The Small Biz Blitz is designed to offer quick, impactful visits to small businesses in our community. Our team will engage with you and your staff, discuss your business journey, and take a group photo to celebrate your hard work and achievements.

Why Participate?

Completely Free: Enjoy the benefits of this program at no cost to you.
Increased Exposure: We'll promote your business on our social media platforms, boosting your visibility in the community.
Meaningful Connections: Build relationships with our team and other local businesses.

Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to showcase your success and connect with the community. Sign up for the "Small Biz Blitz" today—we can't wait to celebrate your business with you!

Visit My Business Next!

FREE EVENT

2026 Small Business Basics Schedule

A free 2-hour seminar that will answer your questions about starting, buying or expanding a small business.

View the 2026 Schedule

Miranda Hoffman

Small Business Development Center Director

Ohio Rural Business Initiative - Tiffin, OH

Overview

Grow your rural small business! Join the SBA for the Ohio Rural Business Initiative to access capital and resources.

Is your rural business ready for the next level? The Ohio Rural Business Initiative is a collaborative effort to bring resources and access to capital to rural-based small businesses in all sectors. Join us for this exclusive event to learn how the SBA and other agencies are working together to help you grow.

Why You Should Attend:

Unlock Resources: Understand exactly what tools the SBA and other agencies offer specifically for rural businesses.
Access Funding: Learn the step-by-step process of how your business can obtain the capital needed to expand.
Grow Your Network: Meet with officials, providers, and fellow small rural business owners.

Date: Friday, May 29, 2026

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Location: 96 S. Washington Street, Tiffin, Ohio 44883

Register

Upcoming SBA Trainings

AI Trends for Small Businesses

Tuesday, March 17, 2026

11:00 a.m.

Register Here

Register Here

Small Business Training: How Do You Get an SBA Loan?

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

10:00 a.m.

LinkedIn for Business: Shifting from a Passive Profile to a Strategic Asset

Wednesday, March 18, 2026

9:00 a.m.

Register Here

Register Here

Bookkeeping Basics for Entrepreneurs - Managing Your Business Finances

Thursday, March 19, 2026

10:00 a.m.

SBA Loan Opportunities for Small Businesses: Programs, Eligibility & How to Apply

Thursday, March 19, 2026

1:00 p.m.

Register Here

Register Here

Legal Wellness Check for Existing Businesses

Thursday, March 24, 2026

1:00 p.m.

Basic Overview of SBA Programs and Services

Wednesday, March 25, 2026

10:00 a.m.

Register Here

Register Here

Small Business Orientation

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

5:30 p.m.

Introduction to Selling to the Federal Government

Friday, April 10, 2026

10:00 a.m.

Register Here

Register Here

Stop the Silent Leak: Restaurants & Retailers Preventing Fraud Before It Costs You

Monday, April 20, 2026

8:00 a.m.

SCEDC Offerings

Buildings & Sites

Find the latest building & site listings on our full database

LEARN MORE >>

Leadership Sandusky County

Join LSC to enhance your leadership skills, expand your network, and deepen your understanding of our community.

LEARN MORE >>

Local Incentives

Sandusky County has a wide range of incentives available to assist new and expanding businesses

LEARN MORE >>

State Incentives

SCEDC works closely with JobsOhio to offer grant funding and tax credits to new and expanding businesses.

LEARN MORE >>

Want to Know More?

Learn more about the SCEDC and why Sandusky County is a great place to live, work and raise families.

Visit Our Website

Beth Hannam | Executive Director

419.332.2882

[email protected]

Office

2511 Countryside Drive, Suite C

Fremont, Ohio 43420

8:30 am - 4:30 pm (Meetings by appointment)

Sandusky County Economic Development Corporation

2511 Countryside Drive, Suite C , Fremont, Ohio 43420

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