The Insider

March 2025

LinkedIn Share This Email

ABOUT | NEWS | CONTACT US

33ee3c34-4779-4823-9144-ed9e6dcc2dc6.jpg

FEATURED ARTICLES

Fremont-Sandusky County Ranked Top 20 Micropolitan

The Sandusky County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) proudly announces that Fremont-Sandusky County has been recognized as one of the Top 20 Micropolitans in the nation by Site Selection Magazine for the seventh consecutive year. This prestigious recognition highlights the region's strong economic appeal, driven by factors such as a skilled workforce, robust infrastructure, affordable cost of living, and a business-friendly environment.


Site Selection Magazine evaluates communities based on metrics like new business projects, job creation, and capital investment. In 2024, Sandusky County completed 49 projects that generated over $147 million in capital investments and created 298 new jobs. Local leaders, including City of Fremont Mayor Danny Sanchez, emphasize the importance of these achievements for encouraging future investments and economic growth in the region.


As we celebrate this acknowledgment, we invite you to read the full press release to learn more about the ongoing efforts and promising potential for business development in Fremont-Sandusky County. Click the button below to access the complete details.

Read the Full Press Release

2025 Annual Meeting of Investors

Thank you to everyone who attended our Annual Meeting of Investors on Thursday, February 27th. The event kicked off with a recap of our accomplishments over the past year, followed by an exciting glimpse into what’s in store for 2025.



One of the highlights of the meeting was the announcement that the SCEDC will be taking charge of Leadership Sandusky County, a program dedicated to developing the next generation of local leaders. We also had the pleasure of hearing from Nick Raich of Earnings Scout, who shared insights on "Trumponomics 2.0: Tax Cuts, De-Regulation, and a Fed Chair on the Hot Seat."


A special moment was dedicated to recognizing our outgoing board member, Hal Hawk, for his remarkable 18 years of service. Hal has been instrumental in advancing our mission to enhance the economic well-being of Sandusky County, and we are truly grateful for his contributions to both our board and the community.


A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who attended and to our investors for their ongoing support. We would like to extend a special appreciation to our Annual Meeting Sponsors:


- Regional Growth Partnership/JobsOhio

- Mosser Construction

- Whirlpool Corporation

- The City of Fremont

- Ohio Logistics

- First National Bank

- Fremont Federal Credit Union

- Crown Battery

- Green Bay Packaging - Fremont Division

- Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority

- Village of Gibsonburg


Together, we are making strides toward a brighter future for Sandusky County!

Watch our 2024 Annual Review Video

Last Chance to Register: Sandusky County High School Job & Career Exploration Fair

Don't let this golden opportunity slip through your fingers! The Sandusky County Job & Career Exploration Fair on April 4th at Vanguard Technology Center is your chance to showcase your company to the vibrant talent pool of Sandusky County students eager to leap into their future careers. By participating, you’re not just filling positions; you’re investing in the local economy and nurturing the next generation of talent. Plus, with free registration and the promise to advertise your job openings in advance, it's a win-win situation! But hurry—time is ticking, and the registration deadline is March 20th. Click the link below to secure your spot and let’s make a career connection that counts!

Register Today!

The Pitch Competition: Applications are Open!

Now Accepting Applications: The Pitch - Accelerating Entrepreneurship Competition!

Are you ready to turn your business idea into reality? The Sandusky County Economic Development Corporation, City of Clyde, Chamber of Commerce, and Small Business Development Center are excited to bring you The Pitch: Accelerating Entrepreneurship Competition!


  • Applications open now through March 31!
  • Open to new and existing businesses
  • Gain valuable resources, coaching, and networking opportunities
  • Compete for a grand prize including key business resources and one year of reduced rent for a storefront!


Before applying, schedule an appointment with Miranda Hoffman for guidance on your application! 👉 https://bit.ly/TerraSBDC

The competition will conclude with a LIVE pitch event where contestants showcase their business ideas to a panel of judges and community members. This is your chance to make connections, refine your pitch, and accelerate your success!

 

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey in Sandusky County!



Don't wait! Applications close on March 31st.

Apply Today!

Sandusky County Teacher Bootcamp

The 2025 North Point Teacher Boot Camps are now accepting applications. These boot camps are some of the most meaningful learning experiences for educators around, and spaces are limited so you do not want to hesitate!


About This Experience

This summer, teachers, career coaches and school counselors from all districts in Sandusky County will have the opportunity to participate in the SIXTH ANNUAL “Teacher Business Boot Camp” being organized by Sandusky County’s Business Advisory Council, North Point Educational Service Center, and the Sandusky County Economic Development Corporation.


This program will show teachers what really goes on behind the scenes in the following in-demand industry sectors: manufacturing, healthcare, finance, construction and agriculture. Participants will gain first-hand experience about the rewarding careers available in many of these sectors of Sandusky County and the skills students need to obtain and retain these positions.


Benefits

  • Three graduate level credits from Ashland University. (This is a $540 savings being funded through a generous workforce development grant by the State of Ohio)
  • Materials to use in the classroom based upon information learned throughout the week. All educators will be required to create a project/unit to use with students during the 2024-25 school year.
  • Instruction and guidance from top-level professionals at participating businesses, North Point Educational Service Center, and Sandusky County Economic Development Corporation.


Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Can administrators participate? YES
  • Will participants earn THREE HOURS of GRADUATE CREDIT for $50? YES
  • Is it an opportunity to collaborate with educators from other districts? YES
  • Will participants leave with amazing lessons & resources for the upcoming school year?YES


Register Today!

Local, County, and State News

Gibsonburg Career Fair

Gibsonburg High School is hosting a Job Fair for their students who are seeking part-time, summer and entry-level positions. If you are interested in signing up for this job fair, please email Rachael Novak by emailing rnovak@gibsonburgschools.org.

Important Update for Business Owners: Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Requirements

On February 18, 2025, a U.S. District Court ruled that the requirements for reporting beneficial ownership information (BOI) are back in effect under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). This means businesses will need to report who owns and controls them.


New Deadline for Reporting:

To give businesses more time to comply, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) is extending the deadline for most companies by **30 days**. The new deadline for submitting your initial BOI report is **March 21, 2025**.


Who Needs to Report?

- Most businesses must file their reports by this new deadline.

- If your company had a reporting deadline set for a date after March 21, 2025 (like April 2025 due to specific exemptions), stick to that later date.

- Some companies involved in a pending lawsuit are not required to report their ownership information right now.


What to Do?

You can submit your beneficial ownership information directly to FinCEN at no cost using their E-Filing system, which you can find on their website. You DO NOT have to pay a fee to file this information.


Background Information:

Earlier, a court temporarily stopped FinCEN from enforcing these reporting requirements. However, as of February 18, 2025, those requirements are back in place, and FinCEN is now committed to helping companies comply with extended timelines.


Stay Informed:

Keep an eye out for any updates from FinCEN about possible further modifications to the deadlines.


For more detailed information, visit https://www.fincen.gov/boi.

Read the Full Press Release

Small Business. Big Impact.

This month's Small Business Highlight is Affinity Event Rentals, the first winner of the Sandusky County Pitch Competition in 2023.


Affinity Event Rentals provides a variety of event services, including arch rentals, décor rentals, officiating services, bartending services, and a mobile service bar. Since winning The Pitch, Affinity has expanded both their service area and the range of services they offer. You can now order balloons, plan a luxurious picnic, and much more! Be sure to check out their Facebook page to discover the exciting new offerings they have in store!

Find Them on Facebook

Small Biz Blitz


We're excited to invite you to participate in our "Small Biz Blitz" program for 2025! This initiative offers quick, impactful visits to small businesses, where our team will spend time engaging with you and your staff. We'll discuss your business, answer any questions, and take a group photo to celebrate your efforts.


Participation is completely free, and we’ll share your business on our social media, giving you valuable exposure in the community. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect and showcase your success—sign up for the "Small Biz Blitz" today! We can't wait to visit you!

Visit My Business Next!

SBDC - Small Business Basics Seminar

The Small Business Development Center's Small Business Basics seminar is free for anyone who wants to start, buy, or expand a small business.

2025 Seminar Schedule

Upcoming SBA Trainings

Unlock Opportunities with the 8(a) Business Development Program

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

10:00 a.m.

Register Here

How to Protect Your Business from Identity Theft

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

12:00 p.m.

Register Here

Social Media Marketing for Beginners

Thursday, March 13, 2025

11:00 a.m.

Register Here

Introduction to Selling to the Federal Government

Friday, March 14, 2025

10:00 a.m.

Register Here

Legal Series 1: Business Law

Tuesday, March 18, 2025

12:00 p.m.

Register Here

WOSB Certification and MySBA Learning Information Session

Thursday, March 20, 2025

10:00 a.m.

Register Here

Financial Management

Friday, March 21, 2025

12:00 p.m.

Register Here

Cyber Insurance - Is It Right for My Business?

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

11:00 a.m.

Register Here

Business Plans 101

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

10:30 a.m.

Register Here

Capital Readiness for New and Startup Businesses

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

10:00 a.m.

Register Here

The Art of Financing Your Business

Tuesday, April 8, 2025

11:00 a.m.

Register Here

Introduction to Selling to the Federal Government

Friday, April 11, 2025

10:00 a.m.

Register Here

EXPLORE OUR OPTIONS

construction_hard_hat.jpg

BUILDINGS AND SITES



Sandusky County is a growing business hub that is well-positioned for investment, growth, and development. Strategically located in Northwest Ohio, Sandusky County is a prime location for businesses that are looking to locate/relocate or to expand, offering companies access to a large pool of talented workforce; affordable, flexible, and attractive real estate options; strategic access via an intermodal transportation network; and excellent education options.

Learn More
silver-keyboard.jpg

SANDUSKY COUNTY BUSINESS CONNECT


Sandusky County Business Connect connects local business owners ready to sell with aspiring entrepreneurs seeking new opportunities. The program provides a streamlined process for business owners to showcase their enterprises while ensuring confidentiality and curating pre-verified buyers. This initiative not only supports individual transitions but also strengthens the local economy, fostering a vibrant business community in Sandusky County.

Learn More
wheat.jpg

LOCAL INCENTIVES


Communities in Sandusky County have a wide range of incentives available to assist new and expanding businesses.

 

  • Enterprise Zone Program
  • Community Reinvestment Area (CRA)
  • Job Retention & Creation Incentive Income Tax Credit
  • Opportunity Zone Program
Learn More
precise_machinery.jpg

STATE INCENTIVES


Grant funding and tax credits are among the most sought after incentives of new and expanding businesses. JobsOhio and the local municipalities within Sandusky County have programs in place offering these benefits to encourage business growth. These programs of varying focus are typically tied to job creation and new capital investment in fixed assets.



Learn More
2024 Annual Review Video

SCEDC News


Join The Insider Mailing List and receive the latest news from the Sandusky County Economic Development Corporation

THE INSIDER

PAST ISSUES

FEBRUARY 2025
JANUARY 2025
SEE MORE

CONTACT SCEDC


BETH HANNAM | EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR


419.332.2882

DIRECTOR@SANDUSKYCOUNTYEDC.ORG

Facebook  Instagram  LinkedIn  Twitter