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The Insider Newsletter

May 2026

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Featured Articles

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SCEDC Receives 2026 AEP Ohio LEAP Grant

AEP Ohio has announced the SCEDC as one of 18 community economic development organizations across Ohio to receive a Local Economic Advancement Program (LEAP) grant.


In 2026, AEP Ohio is distributing more than $461,000 through the LEAP program to help organizations across its service territory plan their local economies' futures, prepare local industrial sites for new businesses and support creative ways to introduce their communities to existing and prospective employers.


“These recipients are helping make their communities better places to live and work, and as a proud member of the communities we serve, we’re honored to support the important work of our neighbors,” said Zach Miller, director of economic development for AEP Ohio.


The SCEDC will utilize the LEAP grant funding to launch a comprehensive redevelopment of its official website. This project will modernize the county’s digital infrastructure, providing site selectors and investors with streamlined access to critical data regarding available properties, workforce statistics, and business incentives. A primary focus of the redesign is the creation of a new Housing Development Portal. This portal will specifically target residential developers to address a documented need for nearly 1,000 new housing units in Sandusky County over the next five years. By improving website performance, search visibility, and accessibility, the SCEDC aims to convert more digital inquiries into physical business relocations and residential growth.


The SCEDC will utilize the LEAP grant funding to redevelop and modernize its website, creating a more effective digital platform to bolster business attraction and retention efforts. By enhancing its online presence, the SCEDC aims to better showcase the county's economic advantages and provide improved resources for both prospective and existing businesses.


Seventeen other local economic development organizations also will receive a LEAP grant this year:

  • Cambridge Guernsey County Community Improvement Corporation

  • City of Canton

  • Holmes County Economic Development Council

  • Jackson County Economic Development Partnership

  • Jefferson County Port Authority

  • Lancaster Port Authority

  • Lawrence Economic Development Corporation

  • Ohio Southeast Economic Development

  • Regional Growth Partnership

  • Team NEO

  • Tuscarawas County Economic Development Corporation

  • University of Rio Grande

  • Wayne County Economic Development Council

  • Defiance County Community Improvement Corporation

  • Mid-Ohio Development Exchange

  • Paulding County Community Improvement Corporation

  • Wyandot County Collaboration


We would like to thank to AEP Ohio for its generous support of our project, which is essential to maintaining the county’s competitive edge and fostering long-term regional vitality.

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Leadership Sandusky County Celebrates Class of 2026 Graduation

Leadership Sandusky County, a program of the SCEDC, proudly celebrated the graduation of 18 participants in the Class of 2026 at a ceremony held on May 13. This marks the first full class to complete the program since SCEDC assumed leadership of LSC, making this year’s graduation especially meaningful.


Over the past nine months, class members representing a wide range of industries—including manufacturing, banking, healthcare, education, construction, real estate, nonprofit, and public service—met once a month to explore key aspects of leadership and community. Sessions covered topics such as leadership foundations and DiSC assessment, emotional intelligence, time management, small business and entrepreneurship, and in-depth looks at Sandusky County’s government, economic base, history, and quality-of-life assets.


At graduation, each participant gave a short presentation reflecting on their experience. Many shared that the program not only strengthened their leadership skills, such as communication, self-awareness, and decision-making, but also helped them apply those skills immediately in their day-to-day roles. Others highlighted how LSC broadened their understanding of Sandusky County, from discovering the Barn Mural Trail and hidden local businesses to learning more about the county’s strong manufacturing base, nonprofit network, tourism assets, and historic sites.


A common theme among the graduates was connection. Participants spoke about the value of building relationships with classmates across sectors and seeing firsthand how business, government, education, healthcare, agriculture, and nonprofits are all interconnected in making Sandusky County a great place to live and work.


SCEDC and Leadership Sandusky County extend sincere appreciation to the employers who supported and sponsored members of this year’s class. Organizations represented in the Class of 2026 include:

  • Croghan Colonial Bank

  • Great Lakes Community Action Partnership

  • Whirlpool Corporation

  • Mosser Construction

  • Sandusky County Board of Developmental Disabilities

  • First National Bank of Bellevue

  • Terra State Community College

  • Northcoast Security

  • Sandco Industries

  • ProMedica Memorial Hospital

  • Martin Marietta Magnesia Specialties

Your investment in employee leadership development is an investment in Sandusky County’s future.


For SCEDC, this first graduating class under its leadership underscores the importance of cultivating local talent and deepening ties between employers, emerging leaders, and the broader community. It has been a privilege for the SCEDC team to get to know each participant, hear their perspectives, and watch their growth over the course of the program year.

Congratulations to the Leadership Sandusky County Class of 2026 on their accomplishments and commitment to continued service and leadership in our community.

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2026 Sandusky County HS Job Fair

On April 30th, the SCEDC hosted the Annual High School Job Fair at Vanguard Tech Center, bringing 22 local employers together with more than 250 students. The event gave students a chance to practice networking, hand out resumes, and learn about professional career opportunities available right here in our community.

The participating employers were excited about the strong student turnout and enjoyed the opportunity to meet with the county’s future workforce face-to-face. The following businesses were in attendance:

  • BMG

  • Camp Fire Sandusky County

  • Carmeuse

  • Croghan Colonial Bank

  • Crown Battery

  • First National Bank

  • Janotta & Herner

  • JB Roofing

  • JBT Marel

  • JS Fabrications, Inc.

  • Motion Controls Robotics, Inc.

  • Ohio State Highway Patrol

  • Riverview Industries RVI

  • Sandusky County Habitat for Humanity

  • Sound Solutions of Ohio LLC

  • Standard Technologies

  • Sunrise Cooperative

  • Thomas Steel, Inc.

  • Toledo Area Ironworkers

  • Valley View Health Campus

  • Whirlpool

  • Wynn-Reeth


We want to thank these companies for their support; their involvement helps students see the high demand for local talent and the many paths they can take after graduation.

Sandusky County Business Connect

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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:

  1. View opportunities on our website.

  2. Fill out the prospective buyer form.

  3. Your details will be verified and you may be contacted for further details.

  4. Once verified, the business owner will receive your contact information and they will reach out to discuss a deal.

For Current Business Owners

  1. Complete the business sale form.

  2. We will review details and reach out with any additional questions.

  3. Your project is announced anonymously under a code name (unless you want the information public).

  4. Our team will send you pre-verified interested buyers, and the rest is up to you!

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

State Awards $7.3M for Demolition & Site Revitalization

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik recently announced $7.3 million in grants to support demolition projects in 32 counties across Ohio. The funds come from the state’s Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program, which focuses on removing unsafe, blighted commercial and residential structures and preparing those sites for future use.


In this latest round, 13 properties in Sandusky County were included in the awards. The program is funded at $21.5 million per fiscal year in the current state budget, with approximately $230,000 reserved for each of Ohio’s 88 counties. Lead entities have until May 1, 2026, to identify all project sites supported through this funding.

Statewide, the program has invested more than $310 million and supported nearly 6,200 demolition projects in every county. The goal is to reduce blight, improve safety, and create more viable sites for housing, business development, and other community uses.


The Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program is part of Governor DeWine’s Ohio BUILDS initiative, which also supports water and sewer infrastructure, broadband expansion, and brownfield redevelopment.

Learn More

Department of Development Awards $1.3M for New Film Projects Across Ohio

The Ohio Department of Development has awarded more than $1.3 million in Motion Picture Tax Credits to support five new film and television projects across the state, including a project in Fremont.


An untitled HGTV renovation series in Fremont was approved for $298,200 in tax credits. Other funded projects include a feature film in Toledo, series in Canton and Warrensville Heights, and a documentary in Columbus.


The Motion Picture Tax Credit program provides a 30% refundable tax credit on eligible in-state spending for qualifying productions, such as feature films, series, and documentaries. The five new projects are expected to create more than 17 new jobs, generate over $3 million in new payroll, and have an estimated total economic impact of more than $4.4 million.


The program operates year-round on a rolling application basis, with an annual allocation of $50 million per fiscal year, plus any rollover from prior periods. Of that amount, $5 million each year is reserved specifically for Broadway and theatrical productions.

A link to the full state press release, including details on all funded projects, will be provided below.


Learn More

Resource for Businesses: University of Findlay's Corporate English Partnership Program


The University of Findlay’s Department of Language and Culture continues to advance its Corporate English Partnership Program (CEPP), an initiative designed to support Northwest Ohio employers by strengthening workplace communication skills.

Through CEPP, local manufacturers and other employers can access practical English training focused on day-to-day workplace communication as well as specialized technical English to support safety, production, and operational effectiveness. The program is intended to help companies improve clarity on the shop floor, reduce misunderstandings, and support the development and retention of their workforce.


Employers can work directly with the University of Findlay to explore tailored training options for their teams. This opportunity may be particularly valuable for manufacturers with multilingual or international employees.


The University offers flexible training options, with classes that can be held at your company, on the University of Findlay campus, or in shared sessions with other international companies.


To learn more about this valuable partnership opportunity, please contact:


Sean Farmer
Phone: 419-434-5913
Email: [email protected]

CAR Annual Management Briefing Seminars


The Center for Automotive Research (CAR) will host its annual Management Briefing Seminars (MBS) June 15–17, 2026, in the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti, Michigan area.

MBS is a long-running conference that brings together leaders from across the automotive and manufacturing industries to discuss where the sector is headed. The 2026 event will feature a mix of policy discussions, technology demonstrations, research briefings, and executive-level panels, with programming geared toward manufacturers, suppliers, site selectors, economic developers, and other industry stakeholders.


More information on the agenda, registration, and sponsorship opportunities can be found at the link included below.




Learn More

SBA Announces New Loan Program for Manufacturers

The U.S. Small Business Administration has made it easier for small manufacturers and businesses in the food supply chain to get funding. Their International Trade Loan Program has been updated to offer loans with a strong 90% federal guarantee. This means lenders are more likely to approve these loans, helping your business grow. You can use these funds to expand your facilities, buy new equipment, hire more staff, or increase production. It's a great opportunity to get the financing you need to build and expand.


What You Should Know:

  • Strong Support: Loans come with a 90% federal guarantee, making them more attractive to lenders.

  • Who's Eligible?

    • Small manufacturers in NAICS Sectors 31–33 starting May 1st.

    • Businesses in the food supply chain, including agriculture, production, and logistics.

  • How You Can Use the Funds:

    • Upgrade equipment or modernize your facilities.

    • Improve your supply chain or build up inventory.

    • Expand your business operations.

Learn More

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.

SBA Launches $1M Patriot Pitch Competition to Showcase America's Entrepreneurs

Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) launched the Patriot Pitch Competition, a national celebration of 250 years of American free enterprise and the small businesses that drive innovation, create jobs, and generate economic growth. Featuring a $1 million cash prize pool donated by Clover Network, Inc. (Clover), the competition is open to eligible small businesses that represent the promise of American innovation and opportunity, and who have utilized qualifying SBA capital products.


“From the family farm to the factory floor, small businesses have punched above their weight for the last 250 years to power America’s economy, which is why the SBA is proud to spotlight the legacy and potential of entrepreneurship through the Patriot Pitch Competition,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “This nationwide contest will award a total of $1 million in cash prizes to small businesses whose innovation, grit and leadership are helping build America’s next great era of strength, prosperity, and competitiveness on the world stage. We look forward to demonstrating how small business is big business for our nation – and to highlighting the resilient job creators and local businesses who are delivering the services, products, and solutions that are defining America’s future.”


“The Clover team couldn’t be prouder to support SBA’s Patriot Pitch event. This competition truly embodies the spirit of innovation, fierce competition, and American ingenuity - the very same values that define Clover,” said Takis Georgakopoulos, Fiserv Co-President.


The Patriot Pitch Competition will progress through four stages of judging, with submissions evaluated on:

  • strengthening American competitiveness

  • innovating and demonstrating an outsized impact within an industry

  • delivering economic opportunity and quality jobs

  • showing strong fundamentals and execution readiness

The competition will culminate in a one-day finals event in Washington, D.C., to be held in September, where the top finalists will pitch live before a panel of notable judges and a national audience for national recognition and the opportunity to win a share of the $1 million prize pool funded by Clover.


In addition to the live competition, the Patriot Pitch finals event will feature prominent speakers from business, government, and industry, a supplier matchmaking expo connecting small businesses with larger companies and contracting opportunities, and networking opportunities with investors, industry leaders, and policymakers.


Small business owners interested in competing are encouraged to submit an application by June 10. Additional details on eligibility, competition stages, and event programming can be found using the link below.


Learn More

Small Business Programs & Resources

Small Business Highlight

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Business: King's Auto Repair Plus

Location: 405 Howland St., Fremont


Founded in March 2021 by Tony and Tiffany King, King’s Auto Repair Plus is a family-owned, full-service auto shop with a strong focus on honesty and efficiency. They offer one-day oil changes and typically book service just 1–2 weeks out.


Serving Fremont by choice, King’s prioritizes transparency, showing customers exactly what’s needed and why, and building honest relationships with both individual and business clients.


Visit King’s Auto Repair Plus to experience their family-focused, honest auto care.

Sign Up for Our Small Business Blitz Program

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
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Miranda Hoffman

Small Business Development Center Director

Register Today: 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

Ohio Rural Small Business Initiative: Tiffin

Friday, May 29, 2026

10:00 a.m.

Register Here
Register Here

Small Business Orientation

Tuesday, June 2, 2026

5:30 p.m.

How Do You Get an SBA Loan?

Wednesday, June 3, 2026

10:00 a.m.

Register Here
Register Here

Basic Overview of SBA Programs & Services

Wednesday, June 10, 2026

10:00 a.m.

SCEDC Offerings

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Buildings & Sites

Find the latest building & site listings on our full database

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Leadership Sandusky County

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

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Local Incentives

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

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State Incentives

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

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

Contact Us!

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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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