Van Wert Area Economic Development

05/29/2026

Today marks a significant milestone for Van Wert County as QTS officially announces its acquisition of the proposed Van Wert Data Center project.

This investment represents more than a facility. It represents long-term opportunities for our community, including high-quality careers, workforce development partnerships, local business growth, increased tax revenue, and continued investment in our region's future.

The Van Wert Area Economic Development Corporation looks forward to working alongside QTS, our local schools, workforce partners, elected officials, and community stakeholders as this project moves forward.

Read the full press release here:

This project is one of the largest economic development investments in the region, including a community betterment fund and energy infrastructure upgrades

05/26/2026

We loved watching Abby grow throughout the year in office organization, etiquette, and communication! The CEO program gives Van Wert County youth an edge as they head into the real world, and we couldn't be more proud to support it.

Exploring future career paths through real-world experience, we’re proud to highlight Abby Dannenfelser, a student at Lincolnview High School.

With an interest in actuarial science, Abby gained valuable experience through her CEO placements at Central Insurance and Van Wert Area Economic Development. By spending time in both settings, she got a closer look at the analytical and business side of decision-making and planning.

A big thank-you to Central Insurance and Van Wert Economic Development for supporting our CEO students and providing these meaningful opportunities. Keep up the great work, Abby! 👏

05/15/2026

Another successful Clean and Green event organized by Main Street Van Wert is in the books. We’re grateful for the many community members who volunteered their time to help beautify downtown Van Wert and invest in the place we all call home! 🪴🪏🌼🧹

05/15/2026

We always encourage our Business Boot Camp participants to present their plans at the regional Pitchfest competition in Lima each May, and we're thrilled to have two Van Wert County winners. Congratulations to Brooke Webster of Glow & Grow on winning $1,500 in the Emerging Business category and to Amy Covey of Walnut and Main Event Space on winning $3,000 in the Start-Up Business category!

05/12/2026

We had a wonderful time promoting Visit Van Wert and Van Wert Works at Let’s Get Down to Business today! This event gave 5th graders from Crestview Local Schools, Lincolnview Elementary, Van Wert City Schools, and St Mary of the Assumption Van Wert the opportunity to explore the region’s most in-demand careers.

If you know a 5th grader in the county, be sure to ask them about their day!

05/11/2026

A great opportunity for small business owners in Ohio!

The Ohio State University Center for Design and Manufacturing Excellence is offering a FREE online, self‑paced cybersecurity course. This course is funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

The course is designed for Ohio small businesses with fewer than 500 employees and requires no technical background. It can be completed in 2–3 hours and covers key cybersecurity topics including phishing, cybersecurity inventory development, and network security.

Businesses can register at https://cdme.osu.edu/sba, and the registration process takes approximately 30 seconds.

05/08/2026

Congratulations to Vantage Career Center Superintendent Rick Turner! His leadership has ensured thousands of high school and adult students are prepared to strengthen Van Wert County's workforce. We couldn't think of a better person for this SkillsUSA Ohio award!

05/01/2026

Congratulations to Brooke Webster and her business Glow & Grow for winning our 2026 Business Boot Camp competition! Glow & Grow delivers loaded teas packed with flavor, vitamins, and feel-good energy straight to your door, and oftentimes benefitting a good cause. Brooke didn't just win cash to upgrade her equipment—she won a Van Wert Area Chamber of Commerce membership and booth space at Main Street Van Wert events. She will compete in the regional Pitchfest in Lima later this month, and we couldn't be more proud!

If you missed this year's Business Boot Camp classes and competition, don't worry, we will be hosting it again in Spring 2027!

04/22/2026

Our 6-week Business Boot Camp has wrapped up and business plans have been presented in our annual competition for cash prizes. We are excited to announce our 2026 winner next week. In the meantime, we want to spotlight the businesses that won last year and encourage you to check them out!

Harting Homesteaders is a Convoy staple and family-run venture focused on sustainable products that connect the region to high-quality, locally produced food, skincare, and more.

Walnut and Main Event Space is a beautifully restored venue in Downtown Van Wert blending historic charm and modern amenities for weddings, business events, and community gatherings.

Be Well Pilates is a welcoming fitness studio based in Convoy offering private lessons and group Pilates classes, promoting well-being, balance, and community.

Rustic Mill is a home-based Van Wert business crafting affordable, quality furniture from barnwood.

If you missed this year's Business Boot Camp and business plan competition, don't sweat it — we host this experience every spring!

04/20/2026

Our office will be closed on Monday, April 20, 2026 as our team is engaged in off-site meetings focused on ongoing growth and development. We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday.