Pre-Project Planning Program
Targeted technical assistance to generate more Vibrant Communities projects
The Pre-Project Planning Program recognizes that small and medium-sized communities may not have adequate resources to develop catalytic economic development projects necessary to transform the community and attract private investment. This program offers targeted technical assistance to address gaps in capacity and expertise to ultimately generate more Vibrant Communities projects across the state.
Helping Communities Thrive
JobsOhio is working to attract and grow domestic and international businesses in eligible Ohio communities.
Cities eligible for support from the program
Grants to eligible communities up to $20K
Advance Your Community’s Overall Capabilities
Program Overview
The program is designed to provide technical support to small and mid-size eligible communities that want to pursue a Vibrant Communities Grant but have gaps getting to implementation. View the full Pre-Project Planning Program Guidelines.
Scope of Assistance
Planning services are intended to assist communities with identified, prospective projects that they have been unable to implement but that are strategic and potentially catalytic in nature. Services are designed to take projects from the idea phase to implementation. Examples of assistance include:
- Market and industry studies.
- Building or site due diligence.
- Capacity planning and stakeholder coordination.
- Capital or budget planning.
- Advising on local economic development tools (e.g., zoning code, building and development codes, and financial tools).
- Development timeline planning.
- Marketing and prospectus development.
Lake to River Helps City of Youngstown Secure Funds to Initiate Downtown Reboot Plan
Transforming Downtown Bellefontaine’s Opera Block
A redevelopment of Bellefontaine’s historic opera block is set to completely transform the heart of downtown Bellefontaine. With the help of a Pre-Project Planning Grant, the 40,000 square foot space will be turned into offices, storefronts, and event space.
