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The Insider Newsletter

April 2026

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Featured Articles

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Local Leaders Host U.S. Rep Bob Latta

On Friday, March 20, the Sandusky County Economic Development Corporation, the City of Fremont, and Sandusky County Commissioners hosted U.S. Representative Bob Latta for a tour of several advanced manufacturing and workforce development sites in Fremont. Stops included Vanguard-Sentinel Career & Technology Centers, AMP Fremont Energy Center, Motion Controls Robotics, Inc., and Crescent Manufacturing.

The visit highlighted the county’s strengths in workforce development, advanced manufacturing, and reliable public power, and also discussed challenges and how federal policy affects each organization.

Local leaders in attendance included Beth Hannam (SCEDC), Bob Gross (City of Fremont Economic Development), Sandusky County Commissioners Scott and Russ Miller, and company and institutional representatives.

We thank Congressman Latta for visiting Fremont and engaging with our manufacturers, educators, and community leaders as we work together to drive innovation and local economic growth.

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NORED Annual Meeting

On April 9, the SCEDC attended the Northwest Ohio Regional Economic Development Annual Meeting as a gold sponsor. NORED is an association of economic development practitioners and partners that provides an outlet for the exchange of information amongst its members. NORED also provides professional development opportunities for members and advocates for legislative changes to enhance economic development in Northwest Ohio. 


SCEDC Executive Director Beth Hannam, who served as NORED president for the last two years, highlighted stronger collaboration across the organization, including the introduction of LEDO-only meetings, which created space for open conversations about projects, incentives, and shared challenges. Beth noted these meetings have deepened relationships and helped communities share solutions. Following her remarks, Beth passed the gavel to Amy Sealts, Director of Economic Development for Putnam County, who will now serve as President for the next two years. 


We also celebrated SCEDC board member Phil Rudolph, Jr., who received this year’s Flame Award for his long-standing contributions to regional economic development. Stronger coordination through NORED helps bring more investment to Sandusky County, speeds project progress, and connects local employers with workforce and funding opportunities.

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Armeton Establishes New Production Facility in Bellevue

Armeton, a global leader in manufacturing concrete counterweights for home appliances, has officially moved its operations to an 81,000-square-foot facility at 111 Hirt Drive in Bellevue. This $5 million investment marks a transition from a rented space in Norwalk to a company-owned site, signaling a long-term commitment to Sandusky County. The move retains 37 existing jobs and creates 4 new positions. The facility is expected to be in full production by the end of April 2026, utilizing upgraded machinery to better serve its regional customers.


READ THE FULL STORY >>

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Whirlpool Announces $60M Investment in Perrysburg

Whirlpool Corporation has announced plans to open a new production plant in Perrysburg, Ohio. The company is investing more than $60 million to convert an existing building into a facility that will produce components for washers and dryers. This project is expected to create between 100 and 150 new jobs over the next two years. The Perrysburg site will serve as a central hub, providing parts and support to Whirlpool’s other manufacturing locations in Ohio, including the factory in Clyde. A formal opening ceremony for the new facility is expected to take place later this year.

Learn More

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

ODA Specialty Crop Block Grant Applications Are Open

The Ohio Department of Agriculture is offering financial support through the USDA’s 2026 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.


Overview:
This program provides grants for projects supporting specialty crops. Specialty crops include fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). A full list is available on the USDA’s Specialty Crop website.


Grant Details:

  • Funding Range: $25,000 to $150,000.

  • Application Opened: April 1, 2026 (pending federal funding).

  • Eligibility:

    • Food and agricultural non-profit organizations

    • Cooperatives, associations, or commodity groups

    • Universities and research institutions

    • Note: Projects benefiting only one private individual, company, or organization are ineligible.

Application Process:

  • Submission: Grant proposals must be emailed to [email protected].

  • Deadline: Friday, May 1, 2026, by 5 p.m. EST.


Read the Full Guidelines

Upcoming Webinar: How Logistics Powers Manufacturing in NW Ohio


Manufacturing success depends on more than production alone — it relies on a complex logistics ecosystem that keeps materials moving, inventory flowing, and products reaching customers efficiently.


Join the Center to Advance Manufacturing for a virtual panel discussion featuring regional leaders from trucking, rail, ports, and higher education as they explore how logistics systems support manufacturers across Northwest Ohio. Panelists will share perspectives on transportation strategy, supply chain resilience, workforce needs, and emerging trends shaping the future of manufacturing and logistics.

This session is designed for manufacturers, logistics professionals, educators, and economic development partners interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s logistics advantages and the critical role these networks play in driving industrial growth.


Register Online

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

The University of Findlay is exploring a Corporate English Partnership Program designed to provide practical English communication training tailored for the workplace.


This program can help your team by:

  • Improving Workplace Communication: Boost English proficiency for meetings, teamwork, and daily professional interactions.

  • Enhancing Safety & Technical English: Ensure clear communication for safety procedures, production instructions, and technical discussions.

  • Building Business & Presentation Skills: Develop confidence in presentations, meetings, and cross-cultural workplace communication.

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.


This is a fantastic resource to empower your international employees and improve overall workplace efficiency and understanding.


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


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

SBA Office of Advocacy Releases Annual Report

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has released its Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2025. This report from the SBA's Office of Advocacy offers a clear look at the research and data it collects. The goal is to better understand small businesses and highlight their important role in the American economy.


The report covers many topics important to small businesses, such as how they get funding, job trends, facts about who owns businesses, new business startups, and how government rules and new technology affect them. It helps businesses nationwide see the bigger economic picture and plan for what's next.


Key Insights from the Research Cataloged in the Report:

  • Rural Employment Engine: Small businesses are significant drivers of employment in non-metropolitan areas, accounting for over 56% of jobs outside major cities.

  • Manufacturing Dominance: Small manufacturing firms are the backbone of the sector, representing 98% of all manufacturing firms and employing millions of workers across the U.S.

  • Onshoring Leaders: Small firms are at the forefront of bringing production back to the U.S., making up 99.4% of all businesses engaged in onshoring in 2022.

  • Diverse Business Ownership: The report highlights demographics of business owners, noting that 5.5% of all U.S. business owners are veterans.

This Annual Report is a helpful guide to finding detailed information and studies that can assist small businesses with their planning and growth.


Read the Full Report

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.

Small Business Programs & Resources

Small Business Highlight

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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!

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

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

Small Business: Access to Capital

Wednesday, April 15, 2026

11:30 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.

Exploring Business Ownership

Tuesday, April 21, 2026

11:00 a.m.

Register Here
Register Here

Small Business Orientation

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

5:30 p.m.

Introduction to Selling to the Federal Government

Friday, May 8, 2026

10:00 a.m.

Register Here

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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