MANUFACTURERS – Our Norwalk Area Manufacturers group is growing and will be developing an Internet-based, online presence to network, look into group purchasing possibilities and share best practices. To find out more information about how you can be a part of it or the numerous grant and financing opportunities available to manufacturers, contact Ellen Heinz at 419-668-9858 or eheinz@norwalknedc.com.

ENTREPRENEURS – Are you an Entrepreneur or are you considering starting up a business? We are currently in the process of building a potential "Virtual Incubator," tapping into area resources and Venture Capital funding options and programs. From mentoring to a possible Existing Facility Grant Program (designed to encourage the utilization of existing building space), we are considering a number of options. We would love to get your input and share with you current opportunities for Entrepreneurs! For information, call Ellen Heinz at 419-668-2030 or eheinz@norwalknedc.com.

ALUMNI – The Norwalk Public and Parochial Schools are working together with NEDC to create a joint facebook page in order to streamline communication and make sure we are keeping in close contact with area Alumni. We want to better promote our community events and also find out how we can bring back additional Alumni to the Norwalk area. Both organizations are having their major events in August of this year, and we will possibly work together on a joint project called "Come Home to Norwalk." When the joint page is live, it will take you directly there.

INTERNSHIPS – There are internships available in our region! We would like to increase the amount available as well as the diversity of the opportunities, help connect more students to them and build a solid program for the future. For more information click here.

TRAINING GRANTS – Huron County has unique access to several training grant options, the simplest and most easily accessible is the "Training Workers to Advance Grant – Part II." This program runs through June 2011, or until our designated amount is completely utilized. If you are interested in finding out more about available training grants, go to the Training Grants page.

ENERGY PROGRAMS – There are several Energy Programs available at the State and Federal Levels, ranging from Grant and Loan Programs for energy audits, new equipment and improvements to facilities. There are also very desirable Training Grants available for any projects involving alternative energy. For more information, go to the Energy Program page.

RAIL ADVANTAGES – In 2009, the Norwalk Rail Spur Project in Huron County received an Industrial Site Improvement Fund Award for $220,000, the only county to receive funding in a nine-county area. A number of area businesses are working together to see how they can reduce their transportation costs and are investigating the advantages of further Rail investment in our community. We are conducting an informal 'Rail Feasibility' study to determine the viability of Rail and what, if any, financial opportunity Rail would afford an individual or group of businesses. If you are interested in finding out if Rail would help your business be more competitive (either in bringing in materials or shipping out product), contact Ellen Heinz at 419-668-9858 or eheinz@norwalknedc.com.

GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING – The entire Norwalk Area and Huron County are certified Hub Zones. This designation could potentially bring substantial advantages and benefits to your company. If you are interested in finding out more about the advantages of being a Hub Zone Business or would like to receive assistance in the registration process, contact the Huron County Chamber of Commerce office at 419-668-4155 or chamber@accnorwalk.com.