City of Cincinnati’s BR&E Program
Overview
At DCED, we know the vitality of our region depends on both new investment AND the growing success of Cincinnati’s existing businesses. That’s why we established our Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) Program: to ensure existing local businesses have what they need to thrive.
We do this by conducting productive in-person meetings to discuss your needs and goals, after which we determine how we can best contribute to the success of your business and take action.
Working within the City’s Department of Community & Economic Development (DCED), our Economic Development Division is in a unique position to meet businesses where they’re at; problem-solve any issues they may be facing; consult on industry insights; and connect them with potential financing, partners, and regional and statewide resources through our wide-reaching and diverse network.
We want to be an advocate for you.
Outcome Goal
To initiate and ultimately sustain a mutually beneficial, productive relationship between DCED and a local business, wherein…
- DCED helps problem-solve, define goals, and communicate a variety of resources, partners, and services, and/or assists with a business’ expansion and growth; and
- The business owner provides insight and context into the experiences of local businesses in our region, helping to inform City decision-making surrounding economic development.
Who could benefit from a BR&E?
Any business! But especially those that may:
- …be unaware of available government services that support local businesses.
- …have attempted to reach out to the City for an issue but struggle to “reach the right person.”
- …have issues impacting operations but have never considered contacting the City for assistance.
- …have a growth vision but are unaware of how to achieve it or experiencing barriers to expansion.
Additional examples: businesses facing issues with infrastructure, utilities, or security, businesses exploring acquisition or a merger, businesses struggling with hiring, businesses considering a facility/property expansion, and more!
Think you may be interested in a BR&E? Don’t worry – we’ll come to you!
Just email Economic Development Officer Justin Halter at justin.halter@cincinnati-oh.gov with the subject “BR&E Inquiry — Name of your Business.” We will get back to you with recommended next steps as soon as possible.
We look forward to connecting with you.
