Last month, GROW Licking County hosted our annual Investor Breakfast to provide an update on the organization’s current goals and initiatives. Topics included business retention and expansion, business attraction, marketing, workforce development, and infrastructure.

A majority of a community’s job growth is driven by existing businesses. These businesses play a critical role in the local economy by providing jobs, contributing to tax revenues, investing in infrastructure, and supporting community development. GROW Licking County places a strong emphasis on business retention and expansion (BR&E) as a core strategy for fostering long-term economic prosperity. 

This survey was conducted to gather insight into the current childcare environment in Licking County. Reliable and affordable childcare empowers parents to contribute fully to the workforce. Investments in early childhood maximizes outcomes for our future workforce. Communities succeed when it respects the profession of early childhood educators and collectively promotes solutions that benefit families, providers, and workers.

Workforce development continues to be a key initiative for GROW Licking County. Supporting the development of the next generation entering the workforce is crucial for sustainable economic and community development. According to the Ohio Department of Job & Family Services, Licking County’s current unemployment rate is 3.8%, compared to 4% statewide. Some common barriers to employment include access to housing, transportation, and childcare.

GROW Licking County is facilitating a childcare needs assessment in Licking County and seeks your valuable input. Anyone who lives, works, or attends school in Licking County is encouraged to participate in our public survey.

In March 2023, Invenergy announced plans to invest more than $600 million through Illuminate USA to create one of the largest solar panel production facilities in the country. The investment included acquiring and building out a 1.1 million-square-foot building in the Pataskala Corporate Park.

In 2023, Licking County saw continued growth in manufacturing and distribution. With the location of several new companies and the expansion of existing companies, we expect to continue the momentum in 2024 while taking a look at recent trends.

Last month, GROW Licking County staff hosted the annual Investor Breakfast, providing updates on the organization’s current initiatives. The topics covered included business retention and expansion, business attraction, marketing, workforce development, infrastructure, and housing.