Happy National Small Business Week!

In honor of celebrating small businesses, we recognize those who have utilized the Port Authority's financing programs.

The Port Authority continues to support local investment and business growth through the BetterBuildings Northwest Ohio (BBNWO) Program, providing $346,820 in energy-efficient financing to 1294 Conant, LLC, a Maumee-based real estate holding firm established in 2021 and solely owned by Joseph Blythe. 

The project supports the renovation of a 35,780-square-foot mixed-use property located at 1294 and 1298 Conant Street in Maumee, Ohio, called Conat Commons. The property includes 30 individual fully leased spaces, supporting local small businesses with a mix of tenants in such industries as: automotive repair, construction, home remodeling, logistics, medical, and performing arts. The owner’s operating entities, Blythe Realty Group, CRD Construction, and Toledo Custom Countertops also operate from this facility. Today, the site supports approximately 40 employees working across its various tenant businesses and operations.



Energy efficiency upgrades to the facility include roofing replacement, HVAC system upgrades, exterior garage and entrance door replacement, and LED lighting improvements throughout the property.  

“The Port’s financing, specifically through the PACE program, allowed us to move forward with a full redevelopment that otherwise would have been difficult to execute at scale. It gave us access to capital for critical improvements and build-out, which enabled us to transform underutilized buildings into functional, modern spaces for small businesses,” said Joeseph Blythe. “Our experience working with the Port has been very positive. Their team was knowledgeable, responsive, and solutions-oriented throughout the process. They understood the vision for the project and worked with us to structure a financing solution that made sense.” 

It is anticipated that these upgrades will result in $27,840 in annual energy savings! These improvements will not only enhance the long-term sustainability of the property but also support the continued success of the tenants and businesses operating within. 

The Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority has developed a national reputation for innovative business financing, assisting more than 1,000 economic development projects representing a total investment of more than $2 billion while helping to create and retain more than 30,000 jobs. Financing options include the Northwest Ohio Revolving Loan Fund, Fixed Interest Rate Revenue Bonds, Infrastructure Financing, Conduit Revenue Bonds, the Ohio Regional 166 Loan Program, the U.S. Small Business Administration 504 Loan Program and the BetterBuildings Northwest Ohio Energy Efficiency Loan Program.

Click here to learn more!