Spring has sprung in West Chester and that means it’s time to get outside and make those exterior improvements. The timing couldn’t be any better for the new SPARK grant, a revitalization grant program developed for our small businesses to improve the facades of their buildings. Just like spring daffodils, these exterior enhancements will bloom one address at a time across the Township.
The best part of working on the SPARK grant program has been talking with and getting to know our small business owners, and strengthening these relationships. Every small business represents a dream and supporting the dreams of these entrepreneurs can spark change throughout the community.
SPARK project yard signs are displayed at the West Chester small businesses that sprang into action to get a SPARK grant. Congratulations to all. At the February 28th trustees meeting, two additional West Chester Community Entertainment Districts (CED’s) were approved—one in the Princeton Glendale Union Centre area and the other at The Streets of West Chester. The addition of the two CED’s brings 30 additional liquor licenses to West Chester Township and these two Community Entertainment Districts will help in bringing new dining options for our 65,000 hungry residents for years to come. Cheers to that!
READ MORE: What's New in West Chester! (2Q-2023)
In March, REDI Cincinnati recognized two West Chester economic development projects as finalists in their 2022 James A. Wuenker Growth Awards. The two award-winning businesses are Synchrony and A&F Souvenir. During the next four years, Synchrony is expected to create 300 new jobs generating $16.5 million in new payroll. The new hub for Synchrony in West Chester will serve as a purpose-driven space for its workers. Eco-friendly A&F Souvenir, expanded operations to the U.S., creating 30 new jobs, and they chose West Chester for their first U.S. location. Thank you to Synchrony and A&F for calling West Chester their home.
This quarter’s resource to know is: BCW/Workforce. The BCW/Workforce Business & Employers Solutions Team (BEST) assists local employers with finding the talent they need to succeed and grow in a global market. Employers can access a wide variety of services and tools to assist them with recruiting, hiring and other workforce needs.
I’ve often heard that, “The numbers don’t lie.” If you want to take a deep dive into why we are the “Best Community to Do Business” three years running, take a look at our 2023 Economic Development Report—you won’t be disappointed.
Lastly, I recently attended the national “Mentoring Monday” event hosted by the Cincinnati Business Courier. I had the opportunity to connect with prominent women business leaders and ask them questions about their careers and get advice. If anyone reading this needs a mentor on how to drink a pot of coffee a day, I’m available. Drop me a line at kkanelopoulos@westchesteroh.org. I would love to hear from you.
Happy spring, West Chester, where families grow, businesses prosper, the grass is always greener, and dreams come true.