OIEP Grant Recipients Showcase Growth in Shawnee
This past week, we had the opportunity to welcome representatives from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce for site visits with two of our local manufacturers, NORMco Pump and Bison Metals. Both companies were awarded Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program (OIEP) grants this year, and it was a proud moment to stand alongside our state partners and celebrate the progress happening right here in Pottawatomie County.
The OIEP grant helps Oklahoma businesses invest in new technologies, expand production capacity, and strengthen their operations in ways that drive long-term economic growth. Funding can be used for equipment, innovation, and process improvements that help companies become more competitive. Seeing these dollars at work inside our local businesses is a tangible reminder of the strength of our manufacturing sector and the potential it holds for future job growth and capital investment.
The program will open again in the spring for the 2026 grant cycle. In preparation, we are planning to bring the Department of Commerce team to speak with our Manufacturers Coalition in January. The goal is to ensure that every manufacturer in our region is aware of the OIEP program, understands how it works, and can determine whether it aligns with their growth plans. By increasing awareness and providing direct access to the experts, we hope to encourage as many eligible businesses as possible to consider applying. As always, Shawnee Forward is available to assist any company that wants support throughout the application process when the program opens.
NORMco Pump and Bison Metals are clear examples of what happens when strong companies, state resources, and local economic development efforts come together. Their investments signal confidence in our community and create ripple effects that benefit the entire region, from workforce opportunities to supply chain activity. Moments like these highlight the momentum we are building and reinforce why supporting industry growth will continue to be a priority in 2026.
-Crystal
President and CEO
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| How does your business celebrate the holiday season? | | | | |
ShawneeCTV Joins Us as the New In The Know Sponsor
We’re pleased to introduce ShawneeCTV as the new sponsor of our In The Know newsletter. Their partnership helps us continue sharing updates, opportunities, and stories with our business community each week.
ShawneeCTV is a local production and advertising company offering local news coverage, video production, event streaming, advertising, and sports broadcasting, making them a go-to source for what’s happening around Shawnee.
Learn more about their work at ShawneeCTV.com, and connect with them if your business needs video or media support. We’re glad to have them partner with us.
| | UPCOMING SHAWNEE FORWARD EVENTS | |
Wrap Up the Year at Our Final SF 101
We’re closing out 2025 with one last SF101 on Thursday, December 18, and it’s a great chance to set yourself up for success in the new year.
If you want to get more out of your membership in 2026, this session will walk you through the programs, events, and resources available to help you connect, grow, and stay plugged into the business community. Whether you’re new to Shawnee Forward or just looking for a refresh, you’ll leave with clear next steps and fresh ideas.
Thursday, December 18 at 8:45 AM
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Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum
Shawnee Forward is excited to host this two-day regional event that brings the best of rural economic development right to our community. The Stand Up Rural America Regional Forum will feature seven sessions led by national experts, regional leaders, rural trailblazers, and positive disruptors who are making an impact across the country.
Attendees will dig into topics like planning, leadership, tourism, entrepreneurship, downtown revitalization, regionalism, business retention and expansion, communications, housing, childcare, rural broadband, talent development, technology tools, and more.
This event is built for Rural America. Participants will walk away with practical tools and strategies they can put to work in their cities, counties, and regions.
More details and registration will open soon coming soon. Mark your calendar and plan to be part of this important conversation.
Sponsorships are now available for this event. Reach out to Crystal or Daniel to learn more.
| | Social Exchange: Your New Go-To Networking Event in 2026 | | |
You told us the number one thing you want from your chamber membership is more chances to network. In 2026, we’re answering that in a big way with our new Social Exchange series.
Social Exchange events will take place twice a month and are all about connection, conversation, and getting to know other members:
- 1st Thursday: Business Before Hours | 8:00–9:15 AM
- 3rd Thursday: Business After Hours | 5:00–6:30 PM
That gives you 24 opportunities next year to build relationships, meet new people, and introduce your business to other chamber members just through this series in 2026.
We’ve already secured hosts for most of the 2026 dates, and the calendar is nearly full. If you’d like to host a Social Exchange and put your business at the center of the networking action, now is the time to reach out. Only a couple of dates remain, and they’ll go fast.
There’s no cost to host. We simply ask for light snacks, drinks, and a fun giveaway item to raffle off during the event.
Make plans now to join us for Social Exchange in 2026 and take advantage of some of the best networking opportunities of the year. Check out the Events Calendar on our website to be sure you don't miss a Shawnee Forward event.
| | Holiday Business After Hours with Sovereign Bank | | This is the one you won’t want to skip. See you there! | | |
Our biggest after-hours event of the year is almost here, and you won’t want to miss it.
Last year’s Holiday Business After Hours was packed, lively, and full of great connections, and this year is shaping up to be even bigger. Sovereign Bank always knows how to host a party, and they’re opening their doors once again for an evening of networking, giveaways, refreshments, hors d’oeuvres, and a whole lot of holiday cheer.
Break out your pastels and help us close out 2025 with one of the most fun events on our calendar.
Make plans to be there, and let us know you’re coming by scanning the QR code or clicking the registration link today.
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Holiday Marketing Secrets From 5 Boutique Retailers
The holiday season is a perfect time to connect with customers, and these five small businesses are turning festive creativity into sales wins with personalized marketing and standout seasonal strategies. Use these insights to inspire your own memorable holiday campaign.
| | | Click on each image to learn more. | | Friday, December 12, watch as Downtown Shawnee comes alive with lights, marching bands, floats, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. Psst... watch until the end for a breathtaking fireworks display! | | |
Winter Wonderland is here in historic downtown Shawnee!
This exciting holiday event has transformed the Santa Fe Depot into a festive gathering place filled with music, lights, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. The highlight of the season will be the featured ice rink, along with a variety of attractions for all ages to enjoy.
Everyone is invited to spend an evening in downtown Shawnee, grab dinner at one of our fantastic local restaurants, then head over to Winter Wonderland for sweet treats available for purchase from holiday-themed food trucks. Classic Christmas movies will play on the jumbo screen throughout the season, adding to the magical atmosphere.
Event Dates:
• December 5 & 6
• December 13
• December 19 & 20
All evenings from 6:00–10:00 p.m.
They’ll also feature special guest entertainment on select nights to make each visit memorable.
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Want Your Event in Our Newsletter?
If you're a Shawnee Forward member and have an upcoming event you'd like to share, we’d love to help spread the word! Please email your flyer to Daniel or Crystal at least two weeks before the event, and we’ll include it in the two newsletters leading up to your big day. It’s a great way to get your event in front of the community. Don’t miss out on this member benefit!
Miss a Newsletter?
If you missed a recent newsletter, you can catch up anytime by viewing the archives on our website here.
| | Thank you, ShawneeCTV, for your generous sponsorship of our newsletter, "In the Know". Your support enables us to keep our community informed and engaged with the latest updates and events. | | Shawnee Forward | 405-273-6092 |
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