Existing Industry Program

RETENTION EXPANSION AND PROGRESS (REAP)

INTRODUCTION

The creation of a strong, on-going existing business program is a key strategy to creating wealth and opportunity for the region. The primary targets for the Retention Expansion and Progress (REAP) program are those manufacturers and service providers who have been identified as our regions most valuable and most growable companies. The initial criteria for inclusion are as follows:

• Creation of new jobs or significant capital investment over the last 5 years or;
• Major utility/telecom usage or;
• Recent participants in workforce training programs offered through the State and OCTC or;
• Operate in one of GO EDCs industry focus areas (Health Care/Life Science, Logistics/Distribution, Advanced Manufacturing, and Alternative Energy) or; (Links back to marketing documents)
• Headquarters of corporation is located in Owensboro

OBJECTIVES

GO EDCs REAP program has three main objectives.

1. retain existing manufacturers, qualified distribution centers, and qualified service providers;
2. expand employment and increase investment in capital and workforce by these businesses;
3. promote the existing business base as the areas number one recruitment tool and source of both lead generation and product improvement.

PROGRAM PARTNERSHIP

The REAP program does not intend to operate independent of the already successful programs and agencies located in our community that serve our existing businesses. REAP staff will develop and maintain relationships with partner agencies to provide services to the businesses and industry in our region. Our partners include:

• Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development
• Owensboro Community and Technical College
• Green River Area Development District
• Owensboro Municipal Utility
• Rural Water Resource Agency
• Western Kentucky University - http://www.wku.edu/owensboro/

PROGRAM OF WORK

Site Visitation

REAP staff will conduct regular visits with all businesses and service providers identified as the regions most valuable and growable companies.

OwensboroWorks.com

Market the OwensboroWorks.com database and workforce delivery model to existing industry.

Single Point of Contact

REAP will be the single point of contact for all business and industry as it relates to road issues, drainage issues, planning and zoning, workforce, grant opportunities, financial assistance, and governmental regulations.

Roundtable Discussion Groups

Industry specific roundtable discussion groups will be formed and held on a regular basis.

Training Seminars

Seek applicable training seminars that will benefit existing industry.

Industry Recognition

REAP will work within the context and framework of the general strategy of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation to identify and recognize successful local businesses and industries.