The Ohio University’s Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Affairs in partnership with the Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission, through a grant award from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA), is assisting Jackson County in its 10 in 10 Initiative. This county-wide effort will help to create 10,000 jobs in 10 years for the region by developing industry-targeted economic growth strategies that will help sustain current jobs and lead to the creation of future ones. Through this process the group will make decisions and take actions to promote sustainable job growth.

This year the group identified targeted industry sectors for further research to see what opportunities may exist related to new sectors or supply chains within those broad sectors. Fourteen sectors were identified, and a survey was taken to prioritize the top 3 industries to target. Those industries chosen to further analyze are: Advanced Energy, Data processing, information services/Office admin services (including medical coding and billing) and Frozen Food Manufacturing Supply Chain. As the process continues, the group will identify suppliers within these broad sectors. For example, for food manufacturing, the county may look at supplies that are needed, such as meat products or packaging supplies etc. Once the businesses are targeted, the group will begin marketing efforts and strategies to locate businesses to the industrial sites and buildings in Jackson County.

Another important component within the 10 in 10 Initiative is a formalized and structured Business Retention and Expansion program (BRE). The purpose of the program is to assist Jackson County businesses retain employees and recognize expansion opportunities. It is a tool for economic development leaders to be more proactive and develop relationships with our businesses that will help them in the long term. The field of focus is broad to include everything from workforce training, to processes, incentives and opportunities.

If you are interested in promoting economic growth in Jackson County and the region, please join other community leaders who have volunteered to be part of the 10 in 10 Initiative by contacting the Jackson County Economic Development Board office.