PROGRAM WORKSHOP SLATED MARCH 5 IN MIAMI MIAMI – The application period for the 2025 Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program (OIEP) opens March 31 and local and state agencies are teaming up to host a workshop touting the benefits of the program.   The workshop, hosted by the Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc., the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, and the Oklahoma Finance Authorities, will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 5, at the MAEDS office, 11 S. Main St. in Miami. The workshop is open to businesses in Ottawa, Craig, Delaware and Mayes counties. To register, contact Takisha Estes at the MAEDS office.   “The program makes $15 million in funding available to qualifying companies across the state,” said Shannon Duhon, MAEDS chief executive officer and president. “This program has helped numerous businesses right here in our area over the years with funding for expansion projects, equipment upgrades and job creation.   The Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program supports high-impact new capital investment across a broad range of industries to help diversify the state’s economy, lead to new product development or increase capacity at Oklahoma’s existing companies. In addition to encouraging new capital investment, these awards support existing jobs and the creation of new jobs.   The program is administered by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce (Commerce) and the Oklahoma Finance Authorities.   The financial incentive makes monthly cash payment awards in the form of payroll tax rebates to help companies grow and offset the cost of capital expenditures incurred through business expansion investments in Oklahoma. Those incentives help: Lower the cost of a capital project. Improve return on investment. Increase the scope of a planned expansion.   During the 2024 application period, the Department of Commerce received 205 submissions for project funding. Of those applications, 180 projects received awards ranging from $25,000 to $150,000 with the total awards funding reaching $14.06 million. The funding will facilitate $52.7 million in capital expenditures. These companies plan to hire an additional 849 employees with a new payroll of $43.1 million.

In today’s interconnected global economy, the opportunity to expand and diversify is not limited to urban hubs alone. Rural Oklahoma-based companies possess untapped potential, and a pioneering program is set to unlock trade opportunities in Asian, European, and Canadian-Mexican markets for them. By fostering international connections, this program promises to transform rural businesses into global players. Rural Success on the World Stage Global Opportunities Oklahoma (GO Oklahoma) is a visionary program aimed at empowering rural companies to access the diverse markets of Asia, Europe, and the Canada-Mexico trade corridor. Developed in collaboration with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and international trade experts, this program holds the key to rural Oklahoma’s international expansion. Why These Markets Matter Each of these markets offers distinct and compelling advantages for rural Oklahoma businesses: Asian Markets: Asia is a powerhouse of economic growth with countries like Japan, South Korea, and India leading the charge. The expanding middle class in these regions presents a golden opportunity for rural businesses, spanning manufacturing, technology, and more. European Markets: Europe, with its stable and mature economies, is a prime destination for Oklahoma’s rural products. Businesses can explore opportunities in various sectors, from aerospace to renewable energy. Canada-Mexico Trade: The proximity of Canada and Mexico allows rural Oklahoma companies to tap into a thriving North American trade corridor. This partnership fosters cross-border commerce in sectors like energy and automotive manufacturing. What this Program Offers This program offers a range of essential services tailored to the unique needs of Oklahoma businesses: Market Research and Insights: Access to market research, providing invaluable insights into consumer behavior, market trends, and regulatory considerations. Understanding these factors is key to effective market entry. Export Development Plan: Guidance and support for exporting products to these markets, including development of a comprehensive export plan for your product. Matchmaking Services: Connecting rural Oklahoma companies with potential partners, distributors, and customers in these markets, expediting market entry and business growth. Networking and Trade Missions: Building international relationships is a cornerstone of global business success. The program facilitates networking opportunities and organizes trade missions, connecting Oklahoma companies with potential partners, clients, and distributors across the globe. Educational Seminars and Workshops: Regular workshops and seminars on international trade practices, market dynamics, and regulatory updates to keep businesses informed and well-prepared. Why Global Opportunities Oklahoma Matters For rural Oklahoma companies, this program represents a golden opportunity to access the global stage. By facilitating trade in Asia, Europe, and the Canada-Mexico corridor, rural businesses can benefit in numerous ways: Diversification: Entering these markets allows rural businesses to diversify their customer base and reduce dependency on local markets. Growth Potential: These regions offer substantial growth potential, providing opportunities for revenue and profit expansion. Global Presence: Expanding into multiple regions enhances a company’s global footprint and reputation. Competitive Advantage: Being among the first to enter these markets provides a competitive edge over slower-moving competitors. Who Can Apply? To be eligible, an applicant must meet the following requirements: Own an Oklahoma-based business which has been in business for not less than 1 year, as of the date on which assistance is requested. Be a for-profit business. Have export products/services that contain a majority of U.S. content (51 percent or higher). Be in good standing with Oklahoma state agencies including the Secretary of State and Oklahoma Tax Commission. Have access to sufficient resources to bear the costs associated with trade, including the costs of packing, shipping, freight forwarding, and customs brokers. Preference given to companies that meet the SBA definition of a small business (SBA size standards 13 C.F.R. Part 121). For more information or to apply or the program, visit https://www.okcommerce.gov/doing-business/business-services/trade-export-services/go-oklahoma/ today!

MIAMI, OK -- The Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc., in conjunction with Community Growth Strategies, LLC, will host a public meeting Tuesday, April 2, to roll out the Community Economic Development Action Plan. The official release will be held in the Miami Civic Center, 129 5th Ave. NW in Miami, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. "This plan is a direct result from input collected from concerned citizens who participated in one-on-one interviews, Zoom meetings, focus groups and our public forum in January," said Shannon Duhon, President/CEO of the Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc. Duhon added, "Without the participation of business, government and tribal leaders, this plan would not be possible. Without their continued participation, the goals of this plan will not be achieved." The organization partnered with Community Growth Strategies in late 2023 and has been working with Jim Fram, the lead consultant with Community Growth Strategies, in the development of the action plan. Fram will attend the April 2 meeting to explain and answer questions regarding the economic development action plan. "We can't thank the community enough for its assistance in creating this plan," Duhon said. "And, we want to thank the community in advance for working with us on the implementation of this action plan and sharing in its eventual success!"

VPC TO PRODUCE PLASTIC WATER, SEPTIC TANKS MIAMI – The Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc. board of directors had a vision in 2016 – build a spec building in Progress Industrial Park to attract new industry to Miami. It took some time, but that vision is now a reality. Valencia Pipe Company, based in California, celebrates the opening of its newest facility today as it expands its operations east to meet the demands of its customers. “We like Oklahoma and the quality of the people here,” said Andrew Dervin, president of Valencia Pipe Company. In looking for a new location in which to expand its footprint, Valencia Pipe Company chose Miami because it checked numerous boxes. “We needed a large building and lot location to service the southern U.S.,” said Dervin, “while also within reach of the midwestern states. Proximity to other plastics companies and railroad access were positive factors, and the people of Miami were great to work with. We are very excited about expanding into Oklahoma and becoming a part of this community.” According to Shannon Duhon, president and chief executive officer of the Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc., members of the organization’s board of directors throughout the years deserve credit for being patient with the process and allowing the building and property to end up in the right hands. “Everything happens for a reason, and everything happens in due time,” Duhon said. “There is no doubt it was a financial strain on the organization to carry the note of the building and property for all these years, but they always found a way to make it work. With tremendous support and cooperation from our local financial institutions, today we celebrate the opening of a new manufacturing facility, the creation of quality jobs, and a partnership with a great company.” Valencia Pipe Company will produce plastic tanks for water and septic applications and will employ 23 associates in year one. Most of the jobs will be manufacturing operations jobs, plus supporting functions like maintenance, shipping/receiving, quality, support, supervision, and management. The company is currently working with Penmac, a local employment agency, to recruit employees. Those interested in joining the Valencia Pipe Company team need to apply with Penmac and provide their resume for consideration. “We do anticipate an increase in employees in year two or three, based on business needs,” Dervin said. “We hope to continue to grow and expand in the future with additional products that are manufactured and distributed from this facility.”

The 1,000-acre resort destination expected to attract more than 2 million guests per year VINITA – Oklahoma state and local officials joined today with American Heartland leadership to announce American Heartland Theme Park and Resort, a more than $2 billion entertainment destination development in Northeast Oklahoma, just west of Grand Lake on Route 66. The development will be built in phases starting with a large-scale RV park with cabins scheduled to open in spring 2025 and a world-class theme park and resort scheduled to open in 2026. The American Heartland Theme Park and Resort will offer a unique visitor experience rivaling the world’s top resort destinations. “We are thrilled to make Oklahoma the home of American Heartland Theme Park and Resort,“ American Heartland CEO Larry Wilhite said. “At the crossroads of the heartland, Oklahoma is an attractive location for a family entertainment destination. The state’s business-friendly approach and innovative partnership efforts have helped make this possible. We look forward to bringing unforgettable generational experiences to Oklahoma.” American Heartland will be a 1,000-acre development with a 125-acre theme park, which is comparable to the size of Magic Kingdom® Theme Park and Disneyland® Park. The park will feature an Americana-themed environment with a variety of entertaining rides, live shows, family attractions, and waterways, as well as restaurant-quality food and beverage offerings. “We are excited about this project and are committed to assisting in any way we can,” Miami City Manager Bo Reese said. “It is clear that, once complete, American Heartland will not only quickly become the top destination in Oklahoma, but it will also become a destination for tourists from around the world.” Conservative estimates indicate 2 million out-of-state visitors will attend the development per year. Combine those numbers with the large number of visitors the region receives each year to experience Route 66, Grand Lake, the Coleman Theatre and more, this project further enhances Northeast Oklahoma as a tourist destination. “American Heartland will be an anchor tourist destination on Route 66,” said Kristy Adams, senior executive vice president of sales and marketing for Mansion Entertainment Group, American Heartland and Three Ponies. “The scale and quality of the development will be unlike anything else in the region, making Vinita, Oklahoma, a can’t-miss destination for families around the world.” The adjacent 320-acre Three Ponies RV Park and Campground, designed by Oklahoma architects ADG Blatt, will be the largest campground in the central U.S. with 750 RV spaces and 300 cabins plus amenities. American Heartland leadership has deep Oklahoma roots. American Heartland is an affiliate of Mansion Entertainment Group, LLC, Branson’s leading performing arts, animation, and studio brand. Led by Executive Producer Steve Hedrick, the design team is made up of the world’s best theme park designers including 20-plus former Disney Parks builders and Walt Disney Imagineers. Design firms include THG, FORREC and Cuningham, whose portfolios feature the world’s foremost theme park brands including Six Flags, Disney Parks and Universal Studios. American Heartland Theme Park and Resort is a family-friendly park promising timeless fun and boundless adventure. The 125-acre theme park will feature a collection of six distinctly American lands to welcome guests on a journey through the best of the American story. Families will find thrilling rides and heartwarming shows as they discover the Great Plains, Bayou Bay, Big Timber Falls, Stony Point Harbor, Liberty Village and Electropolis. “American Heartland will be a place families can come together to create lasting memories, experience joy, laughter, imagination and wonder,” American Heartland Founder and Chief Creative Officer Gene Bicknell said. “There is so much to celebrate about our country: its landscapes, its cultures and most importantly, its people. No matter where you’re from, you’ll feel right at home at American Heartland.” The development will also include a top-tier 300-room hotel and modern indoor water park. “There have been many inquiries about this project, and we understand there may have even been a little frustration in the lack of details provided,” Fairland Mayor Nick Bowers said. “All individuals and groups close to the project were bound by the details of a non-disclosure agreement. In economic development, confidentiality is crucial. Projects we work on today may not come to fruition for months or even years. It is a slow process, but when it pays off with development like American Heartland it is a worthwhile process.” Commerce City Administrator Michael Hart said now that the project has been announced, it is time to celebrate its scoop and support the development. “Now we can all celebrate together,” Hart said. “Rest assured that, as area community leaders evaluate the project, we are working to make sure our communities can handle what we believe will be a surge of investment in our communities. “Do we have the infrastructure, utility needs, talent, and locations for development that will be required to foster growth? As we answer those questions, we are committed to making sure we take all necessary steps to embrace that growth but limit our risk at the same time.” According to Miami Mayor Bless Parker, many residents have been vocal on the need for area communities to: Create more jobs. “This project will not only provide jobs at the park, but the economic development it will spur in the area will create additional jobs,” Parker said. Create more things to do. “A state-of-the-art, large-scale park like American Heartland will provide more than enough entertainment options to check that box. Add in increased entertainment options that will come to this area because of this project, and Northeast Oklahoma has the potential to become the new entertainment destination in the country,” Parker said. Create more housing. “We already have a need for new housing in our communities. This project will only add to that need. Housing will quickly become a priority for all communities in the area as the increase in jobs and other opportunities brings more people to our area,” Parker said. Bring in more restaurants/retail shopping. “We firmly believe in the adage that ‘if you build it, they will come.’ American Heartland has the potential to draw restaurants, retail outlets and other business to the area to capitalize on the high volume of traffic it will create,” Parker said. Improve roads, schools, utilities, and fire and police protection. “New development means new sales tax revenue. New development means new property on tax roll. That all translates into an increase in revenue to address those crucial infrastructure and public safety issues each community has,” Parker said. “It can be a bit overwhelming to believe that one project can have that big of an impact on our communities. But, that’s the power of a project of this magnitude,” said Shannon Duhon, President/CEO of the Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc. “Sometimes all you need is a catalyst, a spark. That spark leads to a fire that leads to an inferno. With American Heartland, we are starting with a bonfire rather than a spark.” Community leaders know there will be many questions moving forward regarding the project. “We want you to know that we will be here every step of the way to answer those questions,” said Cindy Morris, President/CEO of the Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce. “This is a big project with an aggressive timeline. We have tremendous confidence in this project, but we also know this project could take a little longer than projected. That’s OK. It’s worth the wait!” Area residents with questions about the project are asked to direct those queries to the following individuals: Bless Parker Mayor of Miami bparker@miamiokla.net Bo Reese Miami City Manager breese@miamiokla.net Michael Hart Commerce City Administrator mhart@commerceokla.com Nick Bowers Mayor of Fairland townoffairland@gmail.com Shannon Duhon President/CEO of Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc. sduhon@miami-ok.org Cindy Morris President/CEO of Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce cmorris@miamiokchamber.com

MIAMI -- Officials with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce spent time Miami this week to visit with a pair of businesses who recently received funding through a special incentive program. Don Hume Leathergoods and N.E.O. Fabrication were recently named recipients of funding through the Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program. Jon Chiappe and Lesli Crofford with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce were in town Monday to tour both operations and answer any questions regarding OIEP funding. “During the 2023 OEIP application period, which closed April 2023, the state received 222 submissions for project applications,” Chiappe said. “Of those applications, 178 companies received awards ranging from $25,000 to $150,000 with the total awards funding reaching $13.5 million across the state.” That funding, according to Chiappe, will facilitate $91.1 million in capital expenditures among the 178 companies. Those companies employ more than 10,900 people with average wages of $56,268 and total payroll of $615.8 million. “These companies plan to create 1,058 jobs with a total payroll impact of $63.7 million,” Chiappe said. According to George Coen with Don Hume Leathergoods, the company will use the funding to purchase an automated sewing/leather splitting machine. “This company has been in business for 60 years and business has been good,” Coen said. “This new machinery will allow us to increase efficiency and production, allowing us to create more products and continue to grow. “We have a great staff of true crafts people and we appreciate all they do to make us successful,” Coen said. James Alleman with N.E.O. Fabrication said the company will purchase and install a robotic welding system to enable unmanned welding operations. The system will have a common rail that would house the robotic welder and allow the welder to work on four workstations. “This will allow us to increase production capacity,” said Alleman, who owns the company along with his brother John Alleman. “We have customers throughout the central portion of the country from Chicago to Houston. This will help us meet the needs of our current customers and allow us to expand.” The program makes funding available to qualifying companies across the state and supports high-impact new capital investment across a broad range of industries to help diversify the state’s economy, lead to new product development or increase capacity at Oklahoma’s existing companies. In addition to encouraging new capital investment, these awards support existing jobs and the creation of new jobs. The incentive program makes monthly cash payment awards in the form of payroll tax rebates to help companies grow and offset the cost of capital expenditures incurred through business expansion investments in Oklahoma.

BEIP funds will be used to create new office complex MIAMI – A top producer of luxury coaches is gearing up for a $7.5 million expansion project with the help of $2 million in funding through the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Newell Coach was notified in April that it had been approved for the award through the state’s Business Expansion Incentive Program. The award will allow the company to create a new 15,000-sq. ft. office complex, improve stormwater runoff issues on the campus and create new job opportunities. “Our offices are currently located inside a 60-year-old cinder block building,” said Grant Kernan, President/CEO of Newell Coach. “The interior has been remodeled several times over the years, but the structure is degrading. We have just reached a point where the time has come to do something.” The construction project will create a new office complex on higher ground currently used for coach parking. The current office site will be used as parking for new and used coaches. Kernan said $1.5 million of the total cost of the project will be used to help address drainage issues on the property. “Sections of our office building sit on the lowest part of the campus,” Kernan said. “During heavy rain events, this building has taken on water, partly because the drains carrying the water off the property are undersized, and partly because the culverts around surrounding roadways need reshaped.” Newell Coach has grown over the past five years, going from 165 employees to just over 200 today. This expansion project will create more job opportunities, primarily in the engineering department. “We would like to add another 20 roles over the next 5 years, with a focus on engineer-type skillsets,” Kernan said. “We have a big need for electrical and mechanical engineers.” In notifying Newell of its BEIP award, Oklahoma Department of Commerce Executive Director Brent Kisling wrote, “Existing companies like yours are legacy companies that have demonstrated past investments in our state, and we are pleased your company made the decision to grow operations in our state with the assistance of a $2 million award through the Business Expansion Incentive Program.” The Business Expansion Incentive Program assists Oklahoma companies making major capital investments in depreciable items like machinery, equipment, and buildings. The incentive makes annual cash payment awards to help companies grow and boost business expansion in Oklahoma. A typical incentive award is to a manufacturing company with an existing employee base making an investment of $5 million or more to expand their Oklahoma operation. “We would not be able to undertake this project without that funding,” Kernan said. “This new office complex project will help enhance our branding and provide new space for future growth. When our customers visit us, we want the space to represent the product that we build.” To qualify for the incentive, companies typically need to mee or exceed these requirements: • $2 million or greater capital investment. • $2 million or greater in total annual existing payroll. Moving forward, Kernan said addressing staffing needs remains a priority. “We really ramped up through COVID,” Kernan said. “It did not take us long to realize we are not meeting market demand. We have a 20-month waiting list, so there is room to grow.” According to Kernan, it takes 5½ months to create a custom coach.

MIAMI – The Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc. marks the week of May 8 to May 12, 2023, as the Economic Development Week. During this week, communities across North America will celebrate and recognize the contributions made by professional economic developers to create more economically vibrant and livable communities. Created in 2016 by International Economic Development Council (IEDC), the largest international professional trade association for economic developers, Economic Development Week aims to increase awareness for local programs that create jobs, advance career development opportunities, and improve the quality of life in communities everywhere. “As an organization, we are focused on addressing key needs in our communities to help drive economic growth,” said Shannon Duhon, President/CEO of the Miami Area Economic Development Service. “Our new Workforce Development Committee has been busy addressing the current need we have for employees today and developing the training needed for the jobs of tomorrow. “We have been working with other community leaders to address the need for additional housing in our community. We remain active in our efforts to attract new business and industry to our area, but also focused on continuing to meet the needs of our existing business and industry.” As local and regional economies evolve, the role of economic developers and development organizations are crucial in energizing, preparing, and promoting local economic growth, according to IEDC President/CEO Nathan Ohle. “The 2023 Economic Development Week will recognize, distinguish, and show appreciation for the innovation and leadership of our community leaders building an equitable, sustainable, resilient, and inclusive future,” Ohle said. “I hope communities everywhere will join us in celebrating the accomplishments and important work economic developers perform in their communities year-round.”

The Neece family recently announced that it has started another business venture, Neece Properties. The venture will be building and developing new properties and homes for lease starting with Dogwood Addition in Miami. "This is awesome news for our community," said Shannon Duhon, President/CEO of the Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc. "Kudos to the Neece family for this much-needed investment in Miami!"

A team of leaders from recently visited with local economic development leaders and city officials at the Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc. office. Purina recently announced plans to acquire Red Collar Pet Foods in Miami and their leadership team was in town to visit the Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc., the Miami Regional Chamber of Commerce and the City of Miami. "We look forward to partnering with Purina to help them grow the local operation and we are excited to see them take an active interest in our community," said Shannon Duhon, President/CEO of MAEDS. "Welcome to Miami!"

It was a great day in Oklahoma City recently for members of the Leadership Miami class, including Miami Area Economic Development Service, Inc. President/CEO Shannon Duhon. The class was able to spend time visiting with area legislators state Reps. Steve Bashore and Josh West and state Sen. Mike Bergstrom. The class appreciated these public servants taking the time to provide them with an update on legislative activities. "We are fortunate to have these strong leaders representing us in Oklahoma City," Duhon said.

The application period for 2023 Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program (OIEP) is open and will close April 14, 2023. The program makes $15 million in funding available to qualifying companies across the state and supports high-impact new capital investment across a broad range of industries to help diversify the state’s economy, lead to new product development or increase capacity at Oklahoma’s existing companies. In addition to encouraging new capital investment, these awards support existing jobs and the creation of new jobs. The program is administered by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and the Oklahoma Development Finance Authority (ODFA). During the 2022 application period, the Department of Commerce received 163 submissions for project funding. Of those applications, 125 projects received awards ranging from $25,000 to $150,000 with the total awards funding reaching $9.241 million. The funding will facilitate $58.065 million in projects. These companies plan to create 767 jobs with a total payroll of $35.4 million. The incentive makes monthly cash payment awards in the form of payroll tax rebates to help companies grow and offset the cost of capital expenditures incurred through business expansion investments in Oklahoma.