Since the 1950s, the BDC has provided land, buildings, and financing opportunities to spur economic development in Van Wert County, Ohio.
OUR HISTORY
Established on January 17, 1956, the BDC is a 501 (c) 3 nonprofit charitable organization (formerly the Van Wert Industrial Development Corporation). Our board is a diverse group of private business leaders who volunteer their time + expertise. In partnership with Van Wert County, the City of Van Wert, and the Van Wert Area Economic Development Corporation, the BDC has made many historic contributions to Van Wert’s economic competitiveness by securing + improving land to attract new companies + jobs.
Specifically, the BDC initiated the development of two industrial parks: Fox Road Industrial Park + Vision Industrial Park. The Fox Road Industrial Park serves as an example of the proactive leadership demonstrated by the BDC to build economic development / industrial park capacity when other communities had not considered such an approach in the 1950s and 1960s.
The BDC built on the success of the Fox Road Industrial Park by launching the development of the now-thriving Vision Industrial Park, located on the northwest edge of the city of Van Wert. Vision Industrial Park houses Braun Ambulances, KAM Manufacturing, Millwork Brands Inc. (formerly National Door & Trim), Universal Lettering, Elmco Engineering, Store & Haul, Custom Assembly, Alliance Automation, K&L Ready Mix, GLM Transport, Tekni-Plex, other light manufacturing + distribution companies.
The BDC provides financial assistance + incentives through, The Opportunity Fund to existing + new businesses to encourage expansion + growth. This financing is typically gap funding after traditional financing resources are exhausted.
“Buying, leasing, optioning, and otherwise acquiring, owning, improving, erecting structures thereon, selling and otherwise disposing of, and generally dealing in and with real estate and doing all things necessary or incident thereto”
- The Purpose Clause of the Articles of Incorporation
TESTIMONIALS
A Prosperous Future
Supporting the Business Development Corporation's capital campaign is an investment in the growth and vitality of our local economy. It helps attract new businesses, create jobs, and enhance the community's infrastructure, benefiting both residents and organizations like ours. By contributing, we proudly take part in shaping a prosperous future for Van Wert.
— Mike Cahill, President, Greenway Bank
Produce Results
“I believe the bond and partnership between the BDC and the Van Wert Area Economic Development Corporation (VWAEDC) has strengthened over the past few years and I’m confident it will continue to grow and produce results for Van Wert County.
— Stacy Adam, Former Executive Director, VWAEDC
Intelligent Growth
“We must take action now to grow our population. The Accelerate Van Wert Initiative is exactly what we need to ensure broad and intelligent growth for our community. As corporate citizens, Citizens National Bank fully supports this economic development initiative and the leadership role of the BDC.
— Pat Ryan, VP Citizens National Bank
HISTORICAL PROJECTS
Accelerate Van Wert.
Contact us today about economic advancement + opportunities in Van Wert County, OH.