Greetings!
May 9 - 13 is recognized as Economic Development Week nationwide. This week allows economic development professionals representing communities, regions, and states to celebrate and recognize the contributions made to create more economically vibrant and livable communities.
This past year we have continued supporting local businesses with grant funding and talent attraction programs, while investing in our industrial parks to provide places for future growth.Our focus continues to be on finding ways to bridge the gaps and eliminate barriers that allow for business growth, job creation, and an enhanced quality of life.
A few highlights from this past year include:
- Provided $75,000 in grants to small businesses in Enid for equipment purchases and renovations.
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The launch of www.WorkinEnid.com provides job seekers a free and easy-to-navigate site to find available jobs in Enid.
- Partnered with the Cherokee Strip Community Foundation to launch the Work in Enid Award to help attract talent to Enid.
- Venture Road ribbon cutting at the Garfield County Industrial Park will allow up to six more businesses to locate there.
These accomplishments would not be possible without collaboration. We appreciate the City of Enid, business members, and our partners at the local, state, and federal levels that help bring projects across the finish line.
From start-ups to our largest employers, the staff at ERDA is always ready and willing to support your growth. Please don't hesitate to reach out if we can ever be of assistance.
Sincerely,
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ERDA Board of Directors
Sandra Robinett
Matt Parrish
Scott Athey
Dwight Hughes
Martie Oyler
Don Roberts
Brian Henson
Scott Northcutt
Kyle Williams
Dave Lamerton
George Pankonin
Rob Stallings
Whitney Roberts
Jason Turnbow
Non Voting:
Jerald Gilbert
Jon Blankenship
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New aviation education programs to take off at Enid High, Chisholm this fall |
Two of Enid’s public school districts are set to join the fast-growing formation of schools in Oklahoma teaching students the ins and outs of aviation.
The “You Can Fly” programs will be the first to be offered at Northwest Oklahoma schools focused on flying, aircraft, aerospace engineering, drone operation and aviation careers.
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PT executive celebrates 60 years of employment there |
A well-known local businessman is celebrating his 60-year work anniversary this month.
James R. Parrish, PT Coupling’s CEO and son of company founder R.C. Parrish, is celebrating his sixth decade of work at PT, with no plans to retire.
PT has been in business in Enid since 1951, while Parrish began working there full time in 1962.
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Burkes Outlet store to open on West Garriott |
A new department store is coming to Enid soon, city and Enid Regional Development Alliance representatives have confirmed.
Burkes Outlet will go in the old United Supermarket location on 4110 W. Garriott. Bealls is the parent store of Burkes Outlet.
“Customers can find brand name apparel and accessories for the entire family at up to 70% off other stores prices everyday,” the company states on its website, burkesoutlet.com. “In addition most stores carry shoes, home furnishings, gifts, and toys.”
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EHS students to be able to graduate with both diploma, associate degree |
Starting next year, Enid High School students will be able to graduate with both their high school diploma and an associate’s degree from Northern Oklahoma College’s Enid campus.
The first classes available this summer for students participating in EHS’ newly expanded University Center program will be astronomy and a freshman orientation, the high school announced Thursday.
EHS students, with time allowed in their schedules and the appropriate ACT scores — and who start courses at Northern Oklahoma College Enid the summer before their junior year and end the spring of their senior year — can participate in the concurrent enrollment expansion.
Students completing courses through Autry Technology Center also will be able to apply those hours at NOC Enid, where they will evaluate what credit can be given.
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Companies Find Freedom in Oklahoma |
Even with global supply chain issues and uncertain global markets, Oklahoma is finding new ways to grow and diversify its economy and workforce.
“Oklahoma was among the very first states to fully re-open for business in 2020 and we entered 2021 with incredible momentum,” said Scott Mueller, Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce and Workforce Development. “Our pipeline is filled with companies who want what we’re selling – a state that works with companies to help them get up and running and find growth opportunities in the future.”
“In Oklahoma we give companies the freedom to do business their way and that shows in the interest we’re seeing from companies and an impressive influx of new residents,” said Brent Kisling, Commerce Executive Director. “Since April 2020, nearly 28,000 people have moved to Oklahoma. Every corner of our state has something to offer both in terms of job opportunities and life experiences. We are excited to welcome more companies and individuals.”
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Cherokee Strip Business Model Competition |
Through the support of Autry Technology Center and corporate sponsors, the Cherokee Strip Business Model Competition is able to recognize top performers with cash and in-kind service awards. The competition consists of three phases: submission of a business plan, a fifteen-minute oral presentation and a third presentation in front of a judging panel. Four winners and a people’s choice winner will be selected. Top three winners will receive one year of co-working space at the Strate Center.
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