Welcome to the first edition of The GOEDC Scoop: your monthly update from the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation! Each month, we’ll bring you the top highlights from our work across the community, important upcoming events and deadlines, and a look at what’s on the horizon for economic growth in Owensboro.

Top 3 from April 2025

Philip Morris Invests in Owensboro’s Swedish Match Facility with $232M Expansion
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GOEDC Launches Elevate Owensboro Offering Mentorships for Small Businesses
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Five Inmates Graduate from Reentry Success Program at Daviess County Detention Center
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Mark Your Calendars

May 7 – Entrepreneur Morning Meetup

Following the success of its first event, the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is excited to announce its next Entrepreneur Morning Meetup on Wednesday, May 7, at 7:30 AM at Red Swing Coffee’s West Side location. The Entrepreneur Morning Meetup series is designed to connect aspiring entrepreneurs, seasoned business owners, and everyone in between. Attendees have the opportunity to network, share ideas, and hear directly from GOEDC about programs and resources designed to support small businesses in Owensboro and Daviess County.
REGISTER NOW

May 9 – Bridging the Workforce Gap – Breaking Barriers to Employment

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) and the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce are partnering to host Bridging the Workforce Gap: Breaking Barriers to Employment on Friday, May 9 at 9:00 a.m. The event will be held at the Chamber of Commerce in the third-floor conference room, located at 200 East Third Street and is open to the public. This special coffee event will feature Nicki Stewart, Workforce Development Manager with Kentucky VALOR, and Sarah McLaughlin, Reentry and Employment Services Navigator with the Kentucky Office of Adult Education.
RSVP to chamber@owensboro.com

May 16 – Elevate Owensboro Application Deadline 

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is excited to announce the launch of Elevate Owensboro, a new mentoring initiative aimed at pairing local entrepreneurs, small business owners, and innovators with long-time business leaders to help them be successful. The program will officially kick off its first coaching cycle on July 1, 2025, following the close of applications on May 16 and match announcements on June 13.
LEARN MORE

May 20 – Marketing on Tap: Learn how to use AI to *Draft* Better Content

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), the Kentucky Small Business Development Center (KY SBDC), Wonder Boy Media, and The Brew Bridge are teaming up to host Marketing on Tap: Learn How to Use AI to Draft Better Content, a hands-on workshop aimed at helping small business owners embrace AI tools to improve their marketing. The event will be held on Tuesday, May 20, from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM at The Brew Bridge, Owensboro’s local taproom. Tickets will go on sale Monday, May 5, at 8 a.m. for $10 and include training, lunch, and all materials.
GET TICKETS

May 22 – Downtown Small Biz Crawl

Downtown Owensboro Inc., in partnership with GOEDC and the City of Owensboro, is launching the first-ever Downtown Small Biz Crawl on Thursday, May 22. The event encourages the community to shop, dine, and explore downtown while supporting local businesses, with chances to win big prizes for participating.
More info coming soon! 

Available Resources

Small Business Subsidy Program
The City of Owensboro and Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation have developed the Downtown Incentive Program to enhance economic growth by filling vacancies in downtown Owensboro, KY. The program offers rent subsidies or a 50/50 match for building façade improvements to support new or expanding businesses.

Incentives

Available Jobs

Thanks for reading our first GOEDC Scoop! Do you have a suggestion for a way to make this better? Let us know! Email your suggestions to saldridge@owensboro.com. 

Cheers,

Your friends at the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation

 

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), the Kentucky Small Business Development Center (KY SBDC), Wonder Boy Media, and The Brew Bridge are teaming up to host Marketing on Tap: Learn How to Use AI to Draft Better Content, a hands-on workshop aimed at helping small business owners embrace AI tools to improve their marketing.

The event will be held on Tuesday, May 20, from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM at The Brew Bridge, Owensboro’s local taproom. Tickets will go on sale Monday, May 5, at 8 a.m. for $10 and include training, lunch, and all materials.

“Understanding and adopting AI is no longer optional for small businesses, it’s imperative,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of GOEDC. “We’re excited to host an event that not only teaches practical tools but does so in a fun, community-centered space. Owensboro’s small business owners are creative, and this gives them another edge.”

The workshop kicks off with an introduction to AI from Jody Hulsey, Center Director & Business Coach with the KY SBDC, followed by a panel of local small business owners already using AI in their marketing strategies.

“AI doesn’t have to be intimidating,” said Hulsey. “This training is all about helping people see how tools like ChatGPT can simplify what they’re already doing, making content creation faster, smarter, and more effective.”

After a catered lunch from The Brew Bridge, attendees will take part in a hands-on ChatGPT training led by Drew Hardesty, President at Wonder Boy Media.

“We use AI every day to help streamline our creative process, and we’re excited to share what’s working,” said Hardesty. “Whether you’re drafting social posts, emails, or video content, there are smart ways to use these tools without losing your brand’s voice.”

The day wraps with a tasting hosted by The Brew Bridge and open networking. Space is limited, and early registration is encouraged. Tickets are on sale now https://marketingontap.eventbrite.com.

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

About the Kentucky Small Business Development Center

The Kentucky Small Business Development Center has been assisting the Commonwealth’s small business community for over 40 years. With centers statewide and experienced business coaches, the Kentucky SBDC provides no-cost, confidential business coaching services to existing and start-up businesses.

Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of SBA. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested in advance.

About Wonder Boy Media

Wonder Boy Media is a full-service creative agency based in Owensboro, Kentucky, specializing in storytelling through film, design, and digital strategy. With a mission to help brands connect with their audiences in meaningful ways, Wonder Boy blends creativity with innovation to bring bold ideas to life.

About The Brew Bridge

The Brew Bridge is Owensboro’s first brewery and taproom, offering craft beer brewed in-house, a full kitchen, and a laid-back community atmosphere. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a welcoming local spot, The Brew Bridge delivers great food, unique brews, and a place to gather.

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) and the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce are partnering to host Bridging the Workforce Gap: Breaking Barriers to Employment on Friday, May 9 at 9:00 a.m. The event will be held at the Chamber of Commerce in the third-floor conference room, located at 200 East Third Street and is open to the public.

This special coffee event will feature Nicki Stewart, Workforce Development Manager with Kentucky VALOR, and Sarah McLaughlin, Reentry and Employment Services Navigator with the Kentucky Office of Adult Education. Kentucky VALOR (Veterans Accelerated Licensure Occupational Recruitment) focuses on helping military veterans transition into civilian careers through expedited licensure pathways and strong employer partnerships. The Kentucky Office of Adult Education, meanwhile, supports adults, including second-chance employees, in connection with education, workforce training, and employment opportunities across the state.

The conversation will highlight strategies for breaking down barriers to employment, especially for veterans, justice-involved individuals, and other underrepresented populations in the workforce.

“Workforce can be challenging. This event is about demonstrating that talent exists right here in our community. Veterans, second-chance workers, and others are ready to contribute. We just need to recognize and support the pathways that get them into the workforce,” said Jamie Johnson, Director of Workforce Development, Small Business, and Entrepreneurship at GOEDC.

Ashtin Warren, Director of Talent Programs at the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, added, “This event offers employers a fresh approach to tackling workforce challenges. By linking local businesses with motivated individuals who are ready to contribute, we’re doing more than addressing staffing needs—we’re investing in the strength and resilience of our community.”

Complimentary coffee will be served. Seating is limited, and attendees are encouraged to RSVP by emailing Chamber@Owensboro.com.

About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development.

About the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce provides leadership, advocacy, and member services that foster growth and economic prosperity for our region.

 

Philip Morris International is making waves in Greater Owensboro—and around the world—with the $232 million expansion of its Swedish Match facility, solidifying the city’s role as a key hub in the company’s global operations.

Slated for completion by the end of June, the expansion is expected to bring 450 new jobs to Owensboro-Daviess County and create a $277 million annual economic impact, along with 410 indirect jobs across Kentucky.

During a recent visit, Stacey Kennedy, President of the Americas Region and CEO of U.S. Business at Philip Morris International, praised the local team and their role in the success of Zyn, the tobacco-free nicotine pouch now synonymous with the smoke-free market.

“It’s the flagship factory for us, not just in the United States, but the whole world,” Kennedy said. “We’ve got the best engineers, the best quality experts, the best technicians, the best men and women running those lines… and they’re proud to represent the No. 1 smoke-free product in America.”

Owensboro’s workforce is not only building Zyn at scale—it’s setting the standard. The knowledge and expertise developed here will be transferred to future Philip Morris facilities, including a new site in Colorado.

This commitment to American manufacturing—and to Owensboro specifically—underscores why the city continues to attract innovative, world-class industry leaders.

“We wanted to first and foremost expand our flagship facility… because we’re really committed to American manufacturing of our consumables and jobs for American men and women,” Kennedy added.

The expansion highlights both Philip Morris International’s confidence in Owensboro-Daviess County and the community’s unmatched talent pool in advanced manufacturing.

“I couldn’t be more optimistic about our future,” Kennedy said. “These products are making a real difference in the lives of smokers and their family and friends.”

News Source: Messenger-Inquirer
Photo Source: BusinessWire

The Daviess County Detention Center recently celebrated a milestone in local workforce and reentry development: the graduation of five inmates from the Reentry Success Program, including two women who earned their workforce readiness certificates alongside their peers. This program provides incarcerated individuals with industry-recognized skills and credentials to help them successfully reenter the workforce and the community after release.

“This program is designed to help you build new skills, gain confidence, and prepare for the next chapter in your life,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), during the graduation ceremony. “It’s a chance to prove to yourself that you are more than your past mistakes, and that you have the ability to succeed in the world outside these walls.”

Graduates earned the Enhanced Operator I and Workforce Readiness Certificates through Owensboro Community & Technical College’s (OCTC) FlexTrain platform. Course topics include hand and power tools, lean operations, workplace safety, problem solving, and workplace principles — all aligned with local employer needs.

The ceremony also welcomed the next five inmates who have been accepted into the program. These individuals attended the event to hear directly from program partners and past participants, gaining insight into the opportunity ahead.

“You’ve already made it to this point, and this is your chance to show the world what you’re truly capable of,” Bacon told the audience. “The effort you put in now will pay off — not just for you, but for your family and the community that is waiting to welcome you back.”

The Reentry Success Program is a collaboration between GOEDC, OCTC, the Daviess County Detention Center, the City of Owensboro, the Daviess County Fiscal Court, and the Kentucky Department of Corrections Division of Reentry Services. It’s designed to close workforce gaps while helping individuals rebuild their lives through access to meaningful employment.

Community leaders offered their support at the ceremony, with remarks from Judge Executive Charlie Castlen, Mayor Tom Watson, Commissioner Sharon NeSmith, Dr. Ryan Hall (OCTC), Sarah McLaughlin and Mike Uptegraff (Kentucky Education & Labor Cabinet), and Daviess County Jailer Art Maglinger.

“This is not just about finding a job — it’s about reclaiming your life and your future,” Bacon emphasized. “Every step you take in this program is a step toward a fresh start. Remember that change takes time, but the dedication you show today will open doors tomorrow.”

More than 50 inmates have completed the program so far, with additional cohorts in progress. The initiative continues to serve as a powerful tool for second chances — transforming lives, families, and the regional workforce.

UniFirst Corporation (NYSE:UNF), a North American leader in providing customized business uniform programs, facility service products and first aid and safety services, will host a groundbreaking ceremony for the UniFirst Owensboro expansion project. for its Owensboro, Kentucky Distribution and Fulfillment Center. The event will take place on Thursday, March 27, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. Central Time.

The event will feature remarks from local dignitaries and elected officials, including Thomas Watson, Owensboro Mayor, Charlie Castlen, Judge/Executive for Daviess County, and other community business leaders, honoring this $28 million investment in the local community.

“The UniFirst Owensboro expansion project reflects our commitment to delivering industry-leading service to our customers while strengthening our relationship with the Owensboro community and the state of Kentucky, which has supported us for 27 successful years,” said Steven Sintros, President and CEO, UniFirst.

UniFirst’s state-of-the-art Owensboro Distribution and Fulfillment Center currently employs over 520 local Team Partners, and is already recognized as the largest personalization and emblem manufacturing operation in North America, processing and shipping more than 20 million garments annually to customers throughout the U.S. and Canada. The 109,000 square-foot UniFirst Owensboro expansion project will increase the facility’s size to 469,000 square feet, enabling greater operational efficiency, enhancing order accuracy, and adding capacity to meet growing customer needs.

The UniFirst Owensboro expansion project incorporates advanced robotics technology, smart conveyors, and a state-of-the-art shipping sortation system, as well as a new Warehouse Management System designed to streamline operations and scalability. The innovative design and sustainable features include high-efficiency HVAC systems and LED lighting to reduce energy use, along with natural lighting and outdoor spaces to provide an employee-friendly and welcoming work environment.

“The UniFirst Owensboro expansion project is an investment in our customers, Team Partners, and the Owensboro community,” said David Dersheimer, General Manager, UniFirst. “We are proud to deepen our roots here in Kentucky, and are honored to host our local dignitaries who will share in our groundbreaking celebration.”

Dersheimer acknowledges the significant support of Gov. Andy Beshear, the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC), and state and local officials in driving this vital project forward. Gov. Beshear praised the expansion in a recent public statement, highlighting its importance to Kentucky’s manufacturing excellence and its positive impact on the local economy. The Owensboro facility has also earned the Governor’s Health and Safety Award and is one of only 19 sites in Kentucky to achieve OSHA’s VPP Star certification, a designation reflecting the highest safety standards.

Additionally, the facility is ISO 9001 certified, a globally recognized standard for quality management. This certification underscores UniFirst’s commitment to customer satisfaction, continuous improvement, and maintaining a robust quality management system.

“The Owensboro expansion project positions UniFirst to better serve our national and local customer base while driving innovation and operational excellence,” said Matthew Croatti, Senior Vice President, UniFirst. “We’re proud to contribute to the economic vitality of this region, while ensuring that our Team Partners have the resources they need to grow with us.”

Construction is set to begin in March 2025 with partial occupancy anticipated by October 2025. Full completion of the project is expected by early 2026.

For more information about UniFirst and the Company’s uniform rental and facility service solutions, please visit UniFirst.com.

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About UniFirst
Headquartered in Wilmington, Mass., UniFirst Corporation (NYSE: UNF) is a North American leader in the supply and servicing of uniform and workwear programs, facility service products, as well as first aid and safety supplies and services. Together with its subsidiaries, the company also manages specialized garment programs for the cleanroom and nuclear industries. In addition to partnering with leading brands, UniFirst manufactures its own branded workwear, protective clothing, and floorcare products at its three company-owned ISO-9001 certified manufacturing facilities. With more than 270 service locations, over 300,000 customer locations, and 16,000-plus employee Team Partners, the Company outfits more than 2 million workers every day. For additional information, contact UniFirst at 888.296.2740 or visit UniFirst.com. Follow UniFirst on Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram.

This media release was written and provided by Unifirst Corporation.

TS Entertainment LLC has taken an important step toward bringing a new entertainment destination to the former Towne Square Mall site on South Frederica Street. The project has been approved for $2 million in incentives under the Kentucky Tourism Development Act (KTDA), a program designed to support projects that enhance tourism and stimulate local economies.

If realized, this $17.77 million investment would transform 5000 Frederica St. into a multi-attraction entertainment venue. The project has the potential to revitalize the area, create new jobs, and draw visitors from across the region.

“We’re grateful for the support from the state as we move forward in this process,” shared Tony Yager of TS Entertainment LLC. “Receiving KTDA approval is an exciting milestone, but there’s still work to be done. As we continue refining our plans, community engagement and local support will be key to making this vision a reality. We’re excited to keep moving forward.”

TS Entertainment LLC is continuing to explore the feasibility of the project, working with local and state partners to evaluate the next steps.

“We’re excited to continue working alongside TS Entertainment as they explore this opportunity,” shared Claude Bacon, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. “Securing KTDA incentives is a great next step, and we look forward to seeing how this project continues to develop.”

TS Entertainment LLC anticipates that the development could create 75 full-time and 50 part-time permanent jobs upon completion of the projected two-year timeline. Additionally, the attraction has the potential to bring significant tourism growth, with estimates indicating out-of-state visitors could make up 25% of guests in year one, increasing to 35% by year five.

“At Visit Owensboro, we are driving tourism forward as the community gains momentum on both a statewide and national scale, shared Mark Calitri, President of Visit Owensboro. “With the Owensboro Convention Center setting all-time records, a new downtown hotel almost complete, a state-of-the-art sports complex under construction, our destination is thriving. This news is a great first step towards this exciting potential project.”

Media Contact
Summer Aldridge
Phone: 270-926-4339
Email: saldridge@owensboro.com

OWENSBORO, Ky. (March 17, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear joined local officials and leaders of Mizkan America, an industry-leading producer of pasta sauces and vinegars, to break ground on the company’s $156 million expansion project in Owensboro, which will create 44 new quality Kentucky jobs.

“The tremendous growth we are seeing within Kentucky’s manufacturing industry has been a crucial component of our surging economy,” said Gov. Beshear. “Mizkan America’s decision to reinvest in the commonwealth and our communities shows that our New Kentucky Home is the best place for business. I look forward to the company’s continued success here in Kentucky.”

The project includes expansion of Mizkan’s Owensboro facilities by approximately 320,000 square feet, which will bring the company’s operational space to nearly 1 million square feet. The investment will support building improvements, new machinery and equipment, IT upgrades, a new manufacturing line and warehousing space that will allow the company to manufacture Holland House, cooking wine, Mizkan Asian sauces and vinegars and Nakano rice vinegar at the Owensboro plant for the first time. The upgrades will help Mizkan meet customer demand and strengthen its position as a market leader.

“Our factory in Owensboro has been in business for almost 50 years and currently makes around 1 million jars of pasta sauce every day,” said Koichi Yuki, CEO of Mizkan America. “Our Owensboro team has been a huge contributor to Mizkan America’s growth and success over the years. We really believe that the future for our business is bright in Owensboro, and we feel privileged to be part of this wonderful community.”

Mizkan America’s Owensboro team has supported numerous local charities over the years, most notably the Cliff Hagen Boys & Girls Club, events supporting those with special needs like Night to Shine and the GRADSA Buddy Walk, as well as providing pasta sauce donations to God’s Outreach, which helps address hunger at the local level. The Ragú brand, made in Owensboro, has also partnered with international charity Lasagna Love to celebrate National Lasagna Day.

The Mizkan Group is a privately held international food manufacturer headquartered in Handa, Japan, with a heritage that spans more than 200 years. Mizkan Group is women-owned and -operated, currently by members of the eighth and ninth generations of the founding Nakano family. The Mizkan Group offers a lineup of well-known international brands under the Mizkan umbrella and is a leader in the liquid condiment category, with major operations in Japan, the United States and the United Kingdom. Mizkan America, based in Mount Prospect, Illinois, is one of the leading makers of pasta sauce and vinegar products in the United States. Mizkan America maintains 12 manufacturing facilities that serve the retail, foodservice, specialty Asian and food ingredient trade channels. Mizkan America brands include: Ragú, Bertolli, Holland House, Nakano and Mizkan. The company is the exclusive distributor for Angostura bitters in North America.

Daviess County Judge/Executive Charlie Castlen is excited to see the company continue to grow in the community: “It is impressive to think about the millions of jars of Ragú pasta sauce made every year in our community and shipped around the country. We are grateful that Mizkan selected their Owensboro facility for this new project, cementing their long-term presence here. Daviess County is a great place to do business with a talented workforce ready to support further economic growth. Mizkan is one of our top employers, and we look forward to their continued success in our community.”

Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson noted the positive impact the company has on the local community: “Mizkan has been an invaluable asset to our community, providing a positive work environment and offering countless opportunities for their dedicated employees to build a future and support their families. We are incredibly proud to have them as a part of our community.”  

Claude Bacon, president and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corp., highlighted the significance of today’s event: “A groundbreaking ceremony is more than just the start of construction, it represents the dedication, vision and hard work that builds on a legacy. With this expansion, Mizkan is deepening its roots in Greater Owensboro for decades to come.”