| The Norwalk Economic Development Corporation (NEDC) was pleased to organize the 7th Annual Norwalk Area Business Appreciation Week during April 26 - May 3, 2010. It has proven again to be a very effective and innovative method of business outreach and retention for economic development in our area. This program and its success could not continue without the participation of our outstanding local businesses and volunteers who dedicate their time and effort, making this event a reality.
By sending out teams of community and private sector leaders and government representatives to visit with Norwalk area businesses, NEDC’s goal of Business Appreciation Week is to show our appreciation of area businesses and their commitment to our community. During this annual event, visits were made to 116 businesses (our highest number to-date) throughout the Norwalk area. Nearly 50 volunteers volunteered their time to make the visits:
| NEDC Board Members |
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USDA – Ohio’s Columbus Office |
| Mayor & City Department Heads |
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Huron County Job & Family Services |
| City Council Representatives |
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Ohio Department of Development |
| Education & Training Providers |
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Ohio Edison Representative |
| Huron County Chamber of Commerce |
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Norwalk’s SCORE Office |
| Main Street Norwalk |
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US Small Business Administration |
| Huron County Commissioners |
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Small Business Development Center |
| Huron County Development Council |
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Of the 116 companies visited in 2010, reports documented that many more employees will be added than in years past. This is due to the fact that some of the employees that businesses plan to add are replacing ones they had to let go over the past two years due to the economy. Regardless, it is important to recognize our businesses’ substantial progress, as many were more cautious to hire than in the past.
In 2010 nearly a third said that 2009 was a good year for them, which is drastically up from 2009’s report of 18%. Reports from the visitation teams came back much more positive than anyone expected. Although many companies are still struggling, an overwhelming majority of the ones we met with are getting stronger. Many companies took advantage of the changes in the economy to become more innovative and efficient, and their investment has paid off.
Here are some of the comments shared by the business representatives:
- "The loyalty of the customers in Norwalk is amazing!"
- "In regards to profitability, 2009 was our best year ever."
- "We have other operations in the state, but our client said they want the work done in Norwalk due to our quality here and our workforce."
- "It is the people in Norwalk that make it a great place to do business."
Feedback was also given about the concerns of local businesses. Government regulations, transportation and jobs were the three areas most frequently mentioned. The concerns about Government regulations were most often directed at the state and federal levels.
Business representatives were also asked for suggestions of changes that could benefit their business. Recommendations included reducing taxes, group purchasing, group marketing efforts and area promotion, and more financial support available for small businesses at all levels.
Industry Breakdown
A variety of industries were visited during Business Appreciation Week 2010. The following is the breakdown of the number of companies visited by Industry:
Business Appreciation Week is a major component of our Retention & Expansion program. In addition to this very important week, we meet with many businesses every week throughout the year. |
