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.”

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) and the Kentucky Small Business Development Center in Owensboro are bringing top business experts to Owensboro for a free, hands-on workshop designed to help business owners scale their companies and step away from daily operational burdens. Next-Level Operations will take place on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM at Bayside at The Party Space Place, and will equip business leaders with the tools needed to build sustainable, self-sufficient organizations.

“At GOEDC, we’re dedicated to equipping local businesses with the resources they need to grow and succeed,” said Jamie Johnson, VP of Workforce Development, Small Business & Entrepreneurship at GOEDC. “If you’ve ever felt stuck in the daily grind of owning a business, this workshop will help you step into true leadership and build a business that operates efficiently—even without you. We’re bringing in nationally recognized experts to give entrepreneurs and small business owners the strategies and insights they need to reach their full potential.”

The workshop will be led by David Hasler and Drew Sutton, two business strategists with extensive backgrounds in leadership, finance, and operations. Hasler, the Founder & President of Breakthrough Solutions Consulting, has held executive roles at Walmart, Procter & Gamble, and Limited Brands, where he helped businesses optimize financial and operational strategies to scale efficiently. Sutton, a best-selling author and former Chief Engineer at Lockheed Martin, has built his career helping leaders develop high-performance cultures, empowering them to grow their organizations without being stuck in daily operations.

Through interactive discussions and hands-on exercises, participants will learn how to transition from reactive management to strategic leadership, define a clear vision for their business, and implement scalable systems that reduce inefficiencies and risks. The training will also focus on team development, showing business owners how to build self-sufficient teams that drive success without micromanagement.

The event will begin with networking and an interactive enrollment activity, followed by expert-led sessions designed to challenge and transform how business owners operate. A Q&A session and complimentary lunch provided by the hosts will conclude the day, ensuring attendees leave with actionable strategies they can implement immediately.

This FREE event requires advanced registration, and space is limited. For more information and to reserve your spot, CLICK HERE.

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. Through initiatives like National Entrepreneurship Week, GOEDC empowers local businesses and strengthens the region’s economy.

About the Kentucky Small Business Development Center
The Kentucky SBDC in Owensboro provides business coaching services at no cost to existing and potential entrepreneurs in Western Kentucky. The Kentucky SBDC in Owensboro also meets the educational needs of the local small business community by offering a variety of low cost training programs taught by industry experts and qualified SBDC Coaches.

For the first time ever, Owensboro has achieved a double ranking in Site Selection Magazine’s prestigious 2024 Governor’s Cups, marking a historic milestone for the region’s economic development. Greater Owensboro has secured two spots in Tier 3 Top Metros Top 10 categories—Total Project Count and Per Capita—a feat never before accomplished by Greater Owensboro. Owensboro’s last appearance in this listing was a single ranking in 2017, making this breakthrough recognition even more remarkable and underscoring Owensboro-Daviess County’s rapid growth and economic momentum.

“Once again Kentucky is being recognized nationally for our continued economic success and job creation for our residents,” shared Governor Andy Beshear. “I am proud to see so many of our thriving communities recognized in this year’s Top Metropolitan and Micropolitan rankings. It reflects the incredible work being done at the local and state levels to build an even better future in our New Kentucky Home. Congratulations to Owensboro and Daviess County on this year’s strong placement.”

Owensboro tied for 9th place in Tier 3 Top Metros by Total Projects and 7th place in Tier 3 Top Metros Per Capita. This national ranking reinforces Greater Owensboro’s growing influence as a hub for economic development, reflecting a banner year in job creation and investment.

“This achievement is a testament to the incredible collaboration between our businesses, government leaders, and dedicated workforce. Owensboro’s success is the result of a shared vision and unwavering commitment to economic growth,” shared Claude Bacon, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. “By working together, we are creating opportunities that will benefit our community for generations to come.”

Site Selection Magazine’s rankings are widely regarded by corporate real estate analysts as an industry scoreboard, influencing decision-making among top executives. The magazine reaches 42,000 corporate site selection professionals, making Owensboro’s recognition a key opportunity to attract further business interest.

“Congratulations [to Owensboro] on an outstanding achievement,” shared Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development Secretary Jeff Noel. “The most important enablers in economic development are providing the very best service to existing and prospective companies, being active in leading the access to and use of workforce tools, focusing on placemaking and quality of life issues, including embracing tourism while always cultivating innovation and entrepreneurship. The local government and economic development leaders have created a collaborative culture that allows the special people of Owensboro and Daviess County to shine and garner this prestigious recognition.”

To capitalize on this achievement, GOEDC has secured a full-page advertisement in Site Selection Magazine and the Kentucky Economic Development Guide, ensuring Greater Owensboro’s success story reaches a national audience of site selectors, developers, and industry leaders.

“This double ranking is a clear indicator of our region’s strong economic foundation and commitment to strategic growth,” shared Daviess County Judge Executive Charlie Castlen. “This achievement would not be possible without our hardworking citizens, forward-thinking businesses, and the partnerships that make Daviess County a great place to live, work, and invest.”

“The success we are seeing in Owensboro is the result of years of vision, planning, and execution,” shared City of Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson. “These rankings reflect our ability to attract new businesses, create jobs, and foster a thriving economic climate. We are proud of this accomplishment and excited for what the future holds.”

For more information about Owensboro’s economic development efforts, visit edc.owensboro.com or call 270-926-4339.

About Selection Criteria

Populated all year long by the Conway Data research team, Site Selection’s Conway Projects Database focuses on new corporate end-user facility projects with significant impact, including headquarters, manufacturing plants, R&D operations, data centers and logistics sites, among others. It does not track retail and government projects, nor schools, hospitals or infrastructure investments. New facilities and expansions included in the analyses must meet at least one of three criteria: (a) a capital investment of at least US$1 million, (b) at least 20 new jobs or (c) at least 20,000 sq. ft. of new floor area.

 About Site Selection Magazine

Site Selection Magazine is a leading publication covering corporate real estate strategy and economic development, providing insights into the factors that drive business expansion and investment decisions. Published by Conway Data, the magazine is widely recognized for its in-depth analysis, industry rankings, and annual awards that highlight top-performing regions, states, and communities in economic development. With a readership of business leaders, site selectors, and policymakers worldwide, Site Selection serves as a trusted resource for companies seeking the best locations for growth and success.

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. Through initiatives like National Entrepreneurship Week, GOEDC empowers local businesses and strengthens the region’s economy.

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is excited to launch its inaugural Entrepreneur Morning Meetup on Wednesday, March 5, at 7:30 AM at Gramps Coffee & Donuts.

Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, seasoned business owners, and everyone in between, this meetup offers a unique opportunity to network, share resources, and gain inspiration from fellow business-minded individuals in Greater Owensboro.

“Entrepreneurs and small businesses play a vital role in driving the economy of Owensboro and Daviess County. By bringing entrepreneurs and small business owners together, we can help foster connections between like-minded individuals. This creates opportunities and collaborations that benefit the entire community.” said Jamie Johnson, GOEDC Vice President of Workforce Development, Small Business, and Entrepreneurship. “We also want to hear directly from them—how GOEDC can better support their success. The feedback we gather will guide the development of future programs and events tailored to their needs.”

As an added perk, attendees who RSVP in advance will receive a complimentary coffee and donut, courtesy of GOEDC.

You can RSVP and find more information on resources and upcoming events for entrepreneurs in Owensboro-Daviess County HERE.

“When we started our small business four years ago, our desire was to be a part of the community and add to an already great city,” shared Amy Gilmore, owners of Gramps Coffee & Donuts. “Our hope in hosting this event is to meet new innovators and cheer each other on because, ultimately, we are all in this together.”

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. Through initiatives like National Entrepreneurship Week, GOEDC empowers local businesses and strengthens the region’s economy.

Kentucky Sound Stage is proud to announce the grand opening of its state-of-the-art film and television sound stage studio in Owensboro, Kentucky. Designed to serve as a premier hub for Hollywood studios and streamers, independent filmmakers, musicians, and content creators, this cutting-edge facility is set to transform the region into a dynamic production destination to welcome productions of every scale and type.

“The Kentucky Sound Stage is a blockbuster project for Owensboro that is going to take the commonwealth’s growing film production industry to the next level,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Right now, we’re reintroducing the world to our New Kentucky Home, and the Kentucky Sound Stage is going to attract talent from around the globe while showing off our state’s unequaled beauty.”

Strategically located in Owensboro—a city known for its thriving arts scene and growing film and television industry—Kentucky Sound Stage offers top-tier amenities, including virtual production stages, sound stages, post-production suites, and recording studios – all built to meet the highest industry standards.

“We are excited to contribute to Owensboro’s artistic and economic landscape by providing a world-class facility for film, television and music production in Kentucky,” said Jeremy Winton of Kentucky Sound Stage.

“Kentucky has the best film and television tax incentive in the country,” added Kristi Kilday of Kentucky Sound Stage. “Our mission is to cultivate a dynamic, collaborative hub where talent flourishes, compelling stories come to life, and Owensboro emerges as a premier destination for productions of every scale.”

The project has been met with enthusiasm from local economic leaders.

“Working with Jeremy and Kristi on this initiative has been an exciting experience,” said Claude Bacon, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. “Not only are they bringing a premier studio to Owensboro and Western Kentucky, but they have already filmed two productions here—generating economic impact and opening new opportunities for our residents. With national distribution potential, these projects will showcase Owensboro and Daviess County in an entirely new and exciting way. We are grateful they have chosen Owensboro as their ‘New Kentucky Home.’”

Now open for bookings, Kentucky Sound Stage offers flexible spaces ideal for a range of projects, from independent films to large-scale productions. For more information or to schedule a tour, contact 502-377-5139.

About Kentucky Sound Stage

Kentucky Sound Stage is a premier film and sound stage studio in Owensboro, Kentucky, designed to inspire creativity and innovation. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, it attracts national and international productions, elevating the region’s creative economy and contributing to Kentucky’s growing prominence in the entertainment industry.

Media Contact
Summer Aldridge, GOEDC Director of Marketing & Special Projects
Phone: 270-926-4339
Email: saldridge@owensboro.com

The Historic Comeback Brand Races Toward the Green Flag for Its First-Ever Primary Sponsorship In The NASCAR Cup Series

Owensboro, Ky. (Feb. 7, 2025) – Green River Whiskey is proud to announce its partnership as the primary sponsor of the No. 44 Green River Whiskey Chevrolet with NY Racing Team and NASCAR driver J.J. Yeley as they take on qualifiers for 2025 Daytona 500. The sponsorship marks a milestone for Green River Whiskey—its first venture into modern motorsports—aligning with the brand’s remarkable revival story, Owensboro, Kentucky’s rich NASCAR heritage and a bold vision for the future.

With roots dating back to 1885, Green River Whiskey has overcome prohibition, shifting consumer trends, and natural disasters to rise once again as one of the fastest-growing American Whiskey brands. Reintroduced in 2022, Green River is rapidly expanding, poised for distribution in 45 states this year with a range of expressions offering quality and value, straight from the Kentucky Bourbon Trail™. Later this month the brand will launch its first major national advertising campaign in more than 100 years, pairing its rich history with a sense of authenticity and approachability that sets the brand apart from competition in the premium whiskey category.

As the No. 44 Green River Whiskey Chevrolet takes to the track in its striking green regalia—a nod to the green flag that signals racing’s most heightened moments—Green River Whiskey is embracing the thrill of the Daytona 500 with the same spirit of resilience and ambition that fuels its comeback. The sponsorship will see Green River Whiskey prominently featured on Yeley’s No. 44 Chevrolet as he races to qualify for the 2025 NASCAR Cup Series Daytona 500 on February 16, 2025, at 2:30 PM ET, broadcast live on FOX.

The Daytona 500 is renowned for its unpredictability, where the unexpected is the norm. The race’s history is filled with dramatic moments and surprise victories, an appropriate metaphor for Green River’s own journey of overcoming obstacles and seizing opportunities. “The Daytona 500 is more than just a race—it’s a proving ground for perseverance, skill, and a little bit of luck,” said Pete Marino, resident of Bardstown Bourbon and Green River Distilling Co. “The horseshoe, a universal symbol of luck, has always been a part of the brand’s iconography and our bottle. On the No. 44 Green River Whiskey Chevrolet, it’s a symbol that we’re ready to chase history at the Great American Race.”

For J.J. Yeley, this partnership represents more than just a sponsorship—it’s about seizing an opportunity to make a statement.

“I couldn’t be more excited to team up with Green River Whiskey for this monumental Daytona race,” said Yeley. “Their story of resilience, growth, and passion for their craft is exactly what it takes to compete at this level. Daytona is where legends are made, and with Green River Whiskey on board, we’re ready to take on the challenge and fight our way into the big race.”

Green River is beloved and active in its community and known as “The Pride of Owensboro,” a region ripe with NASCAR heritage. Among a number of industry contributors, Green River shares a hometown with NASCAR legends Darrell and Michael Waltrip, both Daytona 500 winners who emerged as formidable competitors in the 1970’s and whose careers in racing continue today.

As Green River Whiskey races toward its goal of becoming a top-10 American Whiskey brand, this sponsorship underscores its commitment to expanding its reach, investing in growth, and embracing bold new chapters. From the back bar to the track, Green River Whiskey is a brand built on determination and a willingness to take risks—because in racing, in business, and in life, nothing is guaranteed, but anything is possible.

About Green River Distilling Co. 

Green River Distilling Co. is a celebration of classic Kentucky – honoring the past while staying firmly planted in the present. The 10th oldest licensed distillery in Kentucky (DSP-KY-10), Green River is known as “the Whiskey Without Regrets,” and enjoys a long, rich history dating back to 1885. Reintroduced in 2022, Green River Distilling Co. is proud to call Owensboro, Kentucky home, and serves as the westernmost outpost of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail™. Authentic and approachable, Green River offers a growing portfolio of whiskeys crafted from historic mashbills. Blended to create a smooth and welcoming taste profile, Green River Distilling Co. is a true testament to simplicity and quality going hand-in-hand. Green River is part of Bardstown Bourbon Co, a top 10 distiller in the U.S. For more information, click here.

Media Contacts

Green River Whiskey
Holley Weyler
hweyler@bardstownbourbon.com
502.836.8715

Brand Labs Group
Andrew Demorest
andrew@brandlabgroup.com
727.900.1282

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 29, 2025) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear highlighted the continued momentum within the state’s manufacturing industry as UniFirst Corp. – a North American leader in providing customized business uniform programs, facility service products and first aid and safety services – will expand its existing facility in Owensboro with a nearly $28 million investment.

“The commonwealth’s manufacturing industry continues to grow, leading the way for our thriving economy and providing opportunities for families across Kentucky,” said Gov. Beshear. “UniFirst’s choice to expand in Owensboro is a testament to our state’s talented workforce and notable resources. I want to thank company leadership for their commitment to our great state and look forward to UniFirst’s continued success here in Kentucky.”

The Owensboro expansion project is a comprehensive upgrade and expansion of the company’s existing 360,000-square-foot distribution and fulfillment center and includes several key components aimed to expand building space, upgrade equipment and enhance personalization capabilities to support continued growth and increase operational capacity.

“Serving our customers remains our top priority, and this expansion strengthens our ability to meet their needs with quality and responsiveness,” said Steven Sintros, UniFirst president and CEO. “At the same time, we’re proud to continue our more than 20-year relationship with the Owensboro community and supporting the state’s manufacturing excellence.”

Founded in 1936 by Aldo Croatti, UniFirst began as an industrial laundry operation in Dorchester, Massachusetts, offering heavy soil garment cleaning paired with exceptional customer service to meet the needs of local workers. UniFirst has evolved into a North American leader in the uniform and workwear solutions industry. 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, safety clothing and floorcare products at its three 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.

Daviess County Judge/Executive Charlie Castlen mentioned the company’s history in Owensboro: “In the late 1990s, UniFirst chose Owensboro for their most advanced, state-of-the-art distribution center. The company has continued to invest in new technology and facility upgrades, while increasing employment. I want to thank UniFirst for their commitment to our community. This represents yet another milestone in the company’s continued growth here.”

Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson welcomed the project: “I am so excited about the UniFirst announcement. Once again this proves that Owensboro is ready and open for business. Congrats to all who made this possible.”

Owensboro City Manager Nate Pagan noted the impact the project will have on the area: “We’re proud of UniFirst’s long-term presence in the city. This investment and expansion signifies UniFirst’s belief that Owensboro is a good location for business and expects to remain for years to come.”

Claude Bacon, CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, spoke on the work that went into the expansion: “It has been a pleasure to work with UniFirst on this expansion project over the last twelve months. Their continued commitment to our community is both appreciated and valued. This investment reinforces their confidence in Owensboro and Daviess County as a prime location for growth, and we look forward to their continued success.”

UniFirst’s investment and job creation builds on the best five-year period for economic growth in state history.

Since the beginning of his administration, Gov. Beshear has announced more than 1,100 private-sector new-location and expansion projects totaling over $35 billion in announced investments, creating more than 59,800 jobs. This is the highest investment figure secured during the tenure of any governor in the commonwealth’s history and $14 billion more than the next highest total.

The robust job creation has been accompanied by rising wages across the commonwealth. Since 2022, the average incentivized hourly wage has topped $26 in three consecutive years for the first time.

Gov. Beshear has announced some of the largest economic development projects in state history, which have solidified Kentucky as the electric vehicle battery production capital of the United States: Ford Motor Co. and SK On’s transformative $5.8 billion, 5,000-job

 BlueOval SK Battery Park in Hardin County; AESC’s $2 billion, 2,000-job gigafactory project in Warren County; Toyota’s $1.3 billion investment in Scott County; Shelbyville Battery Manufacturing’s $712 million investment, creating 1,572 jobs in Shelby County; and INFAC North America’s $53 million investment in Taylor County, among others.

The Governor’s administration also secured the largest General Fund budget surplus and Rainy Day Fund, as well as the most jobs filled in state history. Last year, Kentucky set the record for the longest period with the lowest unemployment rates in state history.

Kentucky also secured rating increases from major credit rating agencies Fitch Ratings, S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s Investors Service.

Last March, Site Selection magazine ranked Kentucky third nationally and first in the South Central region for economic development projects per capita in its 2023 Governor’s Cup rankings. In April, Site Selection placed Kentucky second in the South Central region and in the top 10 nationally in its 2024 Prosperity Cup ranking, which recognizes state-level economic development agencies for their success in landing capital investment projects.

Gov. Beshear announced a Supply Kentucky initiative with the goal of boosting job growth, reducing costs and providing more security in the supply chains of our Kentucky companies. The Governor also announced a new initiative, called New Kentucky Home, to increase economic investment, attain and attract talent, and increase tourism across the state.

To encourage investment and job growth in the community, the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority (KEDFA) in December preliminarily approved UniFirst for up to $250,000 in tax incentives through the Kentucky Enterprise Initiative Act (KEIA). KEIA allows approved companies to recoup Kentucky sales and use tax on construction costs, building fixtures, equipment used in research and development and electronic processing.

By meeting its annual targets over the agreement term, the company can be eligible to keep a portion of the new tax revenue it generates. The company may claim eligible incentives against its income tax liability and/or wage assessments.

In addition, UniFirst can receive resources from Kentucky’s workforce service providers. Those include no-cost recruitment and job placement services, reduced-cost customized training and job-training incentives. 

For more information on UniFirst, visit UniFirst.com.

A detailed community profile for Daviess County can be viewed here.

Information on Kentucky’s economic development efforts and programs is available at CED.ky.gov. Fans of the Cabinet for Economic Development can also join the discussion at facebook.com/CEDkygov, on Twitter @CEDkygov, Instagram @CEDkygov and LinkedIn.

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By John Kirkpatrick

January 16, 2025 | 12:13 am

Updated January 16, 2025 | 7:55 am

The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is spearheading efforts to transform the historic Turley Building into “The Landing,” a modern innovation hub designed to attract and support entrepreneurs, remote workers, and small businesses. Local officials said the project aims to create a collaborative space fostering innovation and economic growth.

The Turley Building is connected to the RiverPark Center, which sits at 101 Daviess Street and is owned by the City of Owensboro. It has a rich history as the former home to what was then called the International Bluegrass Music Museum but has sat vacant for several years. Owensboro City Manager Nate Pagan explained how the City came to oversee the property.

“For many years, the Turley Building was home to the International Bluegrass Music Museum, operating under a lease agreement with the RiverPark Center,” Pagan said. “When the museum relocated in 2018, the RiverPark Center intended to secure a paying tenant, but that never materialized. Instead, the vacant building became a financial burden.”

To alleviate the strain, the City took over management of the Turley Building last year. 

“We amended our lease agreement with the RiverPark Center and assumed responsibility,” Pagan said. “Since then, we’ve been working closely with the GOEDC to explore ways to repurpose it into something valuable for the community.”

GOEDC’s plan for The Landing includes a three-floor facility with a coworking space on the first floor, offering shared offices, conference rooms, and several amenities. The second floor will feature mixed-use spaces, including training rooms, recording studios, and podcast booths. The third floor will house private offices for startups and scalable businesses ready to expand beyond their initial stages.

GOEDC President and CEO Claude Bacon underscored the significance of The Landing. 

“This is the start of creating opportunities for young professionals and entrepreneurs to stay in Owensboro,” Bacon said. “We want to provide a space where ideas can flourish, companies can grow, and people can collaborate in ways that will shape the community’s future.”

Jamie Johnson – GOEDC Vice President of Workforce Development, Small Business, and Entrepreneurship – said the project will be a resource for mentorship, professional development, and innovation. Johnson recently earned an Entrepreneurship Center Management certification through the International Business Innovation Association, where she studied under professors who have experience opening and operating an innovation hub. 

“The Landing will be more than just a workspace. It will be a hub for mentorship, professional development, and innovation, empowering people to turn ideas into thriving businesses,” Johnson said.

While still in the fundraising phase, Pagan affirmed the City’s commitment to the project. 

“The City is supportive and will do everything it can to back economic development initiatives like this,” Pagan said. 

He also highlighted the project’s alignment with the City’s broader goals. 

“This initiative fits perfectly with our mission to promote entrepreneurship and economic development,” he said. “It’s about creating a resource that not only helps downtown but also attracts and retains talent in Owensboro.”

The Landing’s staffing structure will include an executive director responsible for overseeing operations and providing mentorship to tenants. Additional roles will include a small business development center coach, a director of services, marketing, and sales, as well as an administrative assistant. GOEDC also plans to leverage a network of local mentors and third-party professionals to offer specialized guidance and support for entrepreneurs and small businesses.

With extensive renovation costs projected, The Landing is positioned as a partnership between the public and private sectors. Bacon said naming opportunities for the building and its key spaces are available, further incentivizing private investment.

“This is about more than just one building,” Bacon said. “It’s about fostering a culture of innovation and creating a reason for people to build their futures right here in Owensboro.”

GOEDC is also planning events such as pitch competitions, training workshops, and networking opportunities to engage the community and showcase The Landing’s potential.

Bacon said GOEDC is currently seeking private funding before returning to the City and County for additional support and exploring grant opportunities to meet the project’s financial needs.

Owensboro and Daviess County have experienced an unprecedented surge in economic development in 2024, with major investments totaling more than $415 million and the creation of nearly 700 new jobs across various sectors, according to local officials.

The most significant announcement came from Swedish Match, which is expanding its operations with a $232 million investment, creating 450 new jobs. The project was the largest job creation initiative in Kentucky this year. Meanwhile, Mizkan America announced a $156 million expansion of its Owensboro manufacturing facility, adding 44 jobs.

Other developments include R+L Carriers, which invested $25 million and created 63 jobs, and Foam Solutions, which has opened fabrication operations in the former Hickory Springs building with a $600,000 investment and 20 new positions.

Additionally, Publix announced it was opening in the Gateway Commons development area, with an estimated 120 jobs being created.

Churchill Downs Incorporated is also set to open Owensboro Racing and Gaming, a new state-of-the-art gaming facility, in February. Officials expect the facility to create 200 jobs.

Claude Bacon, president and CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation, celebrated the achievements.

“In 2024, Greater Owensboro experienced a record-breaking year in total investments and job creation. The positive effects from these investments will benefit our community for decades to come,” Bacon said. “These businesses have solidified the area’s reputation as a competitive and desirable destination for growth. This great success reflects the collaboration of outstanding companies, strong partnerships, and the dedicated individuals who make up the region’s excellent workforce.”

Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson echoed the sentiment.

“Reflecting on 2024, it’s incredible to see the milestones Owensboro has achieved in what has been a record-breaking year,” Watson said. “These job announcements represent more than numbers — they’re life-changing careers for families and a boost to our local economy. Owensboro continues to attract businesses, and even more impressively, we see them thrive and expand here.”

Daviess County Judge-Executive Charlie Castlen emphasized the teamwork and workforce in the region as critical to its success.

“I’m very pleased,” Castlen said. “We’ve worked together as a City and County, and our ability to collaborate with businesses has been key. For companies like Mizkan to choose Owensboro for their premier product line and for Swedish Match to expand so significantly, it’s clear that we’re doing something right. These investments show the strength of our workforce and the quality of service we provide to businesses.”

Castlen also commended Bacon’s leadership at GOEDC, calling his work instrumental in driving these successes.

As Owensboro and Daviess County head into 2025, leaders are optimistic about sustaining the momentum. Castlen said strategic investments, a growing reputation for business-friendly policies, and a robust workforce have set the stage for continued economic growth.