Kaptur Announces $70,000 EDA Investment Award to Maumee Valley Planning Organization for Regional Economic Development

Toledo, OH – Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) announced that the Maumee Valley Planning Organization (MVPO) has been awarded a $70,000 investment from the US Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA). This funding which is part of a Partnership Planning grant will support the development and implementation of a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for the region served by MVPO, which includes the counties of Defiance, Fulton, Henry, Paulding, and Williams.

This critical funding will enable MVPO to establish an economic development planning framework, process, and strategy aimed at supporting private capital investment and job creation in Northwest Ohio. The total project cost is $140,000, with the EDA investment covering half of this amount.

Congresswoman Kaptur emphasized the importance of this investment for the economic vitality of the region. "The EDA's investment in the Maumee Valley Planning Organization is a testament to the strength and potential of Northwest Ohio. This funding will provide the necessary resources to develop a strategic economic roadmap that fosters job creation, supports local businesses, and attracts private investment. I am proud to support initiatives that drive economic growth and improve the quality of life for our communities."

"This partnership planning grant award by the Economic Development Administration is a key investment enabling MVPO to implement the strategies and goals outlined in the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy," said Will Burns, Economic Development Coordinator for MVPO. "MVPO looks to provide economic development program outreach to local member governments to facilitate project development and implementation of strategies designed to ensure the region has the capacity to provide the necessary infrastructure and workforce required to attract private investment and encourage the creation of quality jobs."

The Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, updated by MVPO in early 2023, was built upon extensive input from key stakeholders, engagement with local businesses, regional demographics, and the unique characteristics of the Northwest Ohio region. The updated CEDS will serve as the roadmap for economic development from 2023 to 2028, aiming to diversify and strengthen the regional economy by bringing together public and private sectors.

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