Fostering Economic Growth in Venango County

They may not be a typical “business,” but the Venango County Economic Development Authority (VCEDA) focuses its efforts on helping our economy thrive each day.

The VCEDA is the lead economic development agency in Venango County. Created by the Board of County Commissioners in January of 2018, the VCEDA’s mission is to foster a diverse county economy and quality of life through strengthening the regional infrastructure and working with partner organizations.

Through a holistic approach to economic development, the VCEDA aims to enhance the workforce and recreational and cultural amenities, to create a compelling climate for the growth of new and existing businesses. The VCEDA staff is fueled by “a sense of civic duty, community pride, and coffee.”

“I enjoy playing a role in improving the community I was raised in and a place that has helped shape the person I am,” said Emily Lewis, executive director of the VCEDA. “Working in service of my home town is a unique experience and I feel I am able to objectively view the challenges our community faces, while never losing site of the people and places that make our area so unique.”

The VCEDA has a seven-member board with representation from various organizations in Venango County engaged in economic development efforts, including the Cranberry Economic Development Committee, Franklin Industrial & Commercial Development Authority (FIDCA), Oil Region Alliance (ORA), Oil City Redevelopment Authority, and the three county commissioners. The Chair of the Board of County Commissioners is also the Chair of the Economic Development Authority.

“I like working for a board that collectively brings varying perspectives and opinions to the table, but shares a common goal of advancing Venango County,” Emily said. “When everyone is working in tandem with good intentions, great things can happen”

The VCEDA is working every day to make sure Venango County is the kind of place businesses and people alike can grow and prosper.

ABOUT

The VCEDA is the lead economic development agency in Venango County and aims to enhance the workforce and recreational and cultural amenities, to create a compelling climate for the growth of new and existing businesses.

FAST FACTS

• Created in January of 2018 by the Board of County Commissioners
• Executive director was born and raised in Venango County
• Has a seven-member board of directors with representation from various organizations

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Website:
www.vceda.com

Email:
elewis@co.venango.pa.us

Phone:
(814) 432-9681

Address:
1168 Liberty Street
P.O. Box 831
Franklin, PA 16323

Hours of Business:
Monday-Friday
8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

This article was published in the Venango Area Chamber of Commerce’s October 2018 edition of the VenangoWorks! Newsletter.