Local megasite discussed at RGP event

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TOLEDO — The Regional Growth Partnership recently hosted a delegation of prominent site consultants to promote the Toledo/Northwest Ohio region as a top location for business investment.

Ten site consultants from across the country made their way to the Toledo region for a three-day event to learn more about the area’s assets. This event, described in the industry as a “FAM (familiarization) Tour,” marked the second straight year the RGP played host to a large number of consultants.

“Site consultants are key targets because they are often engaged by companies looking to expand operations,” said Dean Monske, president and CEO of the RGP. “It is critical that the RGP identify and build relationships with these decision makers.”

The RGP branded and marketed the event as an opportunity to gather the critical information consultants deem important, and have it presented by the people they want to hear from – the private sector.

The consultants came to the region from all across the country, representing such cities as Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., Dallas, Charlotte and Phoenix. During the visit, they heard from executives at some of the region’s largest companies explain why they chose to invest and do business in northwest Ohio. Presentations were made by Owens Corning, Dana, O-I, Sauder Woodworking and Marathon Petroleum.

Another session focused on the region’s acclaimed work ethic, with testimonials presented by executives at companies across northwest Ohio, including North Star BlueScope Steel, Pro-Tec Coating and Hylant Group.  In addition, representatives from JobsOhio discussed the state of Ohio’s unique approach to economic development. JobsOhio is a private entity designed to communicate and work better with businesses, primarily by acting as a business itself. The RGP serves as Northwest Ohio’s network partner for JobsOhio.

A special highlight for consultants was a helicopter tour over select northwest Ohio Greenfield “megasites” in counties including Lucas, Wood, Fulton, Putnam, Hancock and Henry. The 1,600-acre Jobs Ready Site northeast of Van Wert was discussed during a pre-dinner reception held for the consultants.

Information on the Overland Park Brownfield Redevelopment Project (former Jeep site) was also presented by the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority. Representatives from Owens Community College and Terra State Community College discussed their respective roles in workforce development. The event ended with some rest and relaxation at various islands off Port Clinton.

“This was a great opportunity for northwest Ohio to make a strong, face-to-face sales pitch to key decision makers who took the time to visit our backyard,” said Gary Thompson, vice president of the RGP and director of the JobsOhio Northwest Ohio Region. “The idea that this region was able to attract 10 of the top national site consultants for several days is pretty impressive.”

Initial feedback from consultants was very positive. One described it as “One of the most enjoyable FAM Tours … providing a very clear and insightful picture of northwest Ohio.” Another said “I learned more this year that will help me with clients looking to locate in the geography.”

Besides the FAM Tour, the RGP employs other strategies in reaching these key consultants, most notably, direct, face-to-face meetings in targeted cities across the country. In the first quarter of this year, the RGP made nearly a dozen market visits, meeting with more than 80 Tier 1 contacts.

The Regional Growth Partnership is a private, nonprofit development corporation dedicated to fostering local, national and international economic growth opportunities for Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan.

JobsOhio is a private corporation led by business experts who are focused on driving job creation, new capital investment, and economic growth for Ohio.