Ohio benefits from a new non-profit economic development structure that serves as a strong catalyst for capital investment and job creation. The Port Authority works closely with the JobsOhio system from initial project inquiry from the development team all the way through JobsOhio incentive contract execution. Local tax abatement and financing programs are implemented concurrently but independently of the JobsOhio programs (i.e. local and State incentive programs involve separate contracts and are not contingent upon the other).
JobsOhio offers a full range of tax credits, performance-based grants, and low-interest financing. Full program descriptions can be found here: http://www.jobs-ohio.com/why-ohio/incentives/ .
Finally, the JobsOhio program utilizes regional affiliate non-profits that serve as the initial point of contact to learn about proposed projects and make a recommendation for JobsOhio assistance. Jefferson County is served by the Appalachian affiliate, the Appalachian Partnership for Economic Growth (APEG; www.apeg.com ). The APEG Project Manager that serves Jefferson County with office space in Steubenville is Mr. Ed Looman. Mr. Looman and APEG work side-by-side with the Port Authority as development proposals come forward, requesting incentive and/or site selection analysis assistance.
