AEP Ohio awards LEAP grant to VWAEDC

VW independent/submitted information

GAHANNA — AEP Ohio, an American Electric Power company, announced on Thursday the awarding of 15 Local Economic Assistance Program (LEAP) grants to economic development organizations throughout Ohio, including Van Wert County.

The announcement comes as part of National Economic Development Week, May 7-12. Awarded annually since 2005, AEP Ohio’s LEAP grants provide funding to help local communities grow, with a focus on retaining and expanding manufacturing jobs.

“By investing in new workforce and economic development programs locally, we hope to spur job creation and opportunities for the communities we serve,” said Tim Wells, manager of economic and business development for AEP Ohio.

The grants, which range from $2,050 to $16,250, will be used for a number of projects that promote economic development, everything from business incubators to engineering and technology camps, to site preparation are included among the grants.

Van Wert County received $5,000 for development of an economic development website.

For more information about AEP Ohio Economic and Business Development, visit www.aepohio.com/info/community/economic/.