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Business Retention & Expansion (BR&Es)
The vitality of our region depends on both new investment and the growing success of Cincinnati’s existing businesses. That’s why we have a Business Retention and Expansion (“BR&E”) Program, which ensures 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.
The cornerstone of our Business Retention and Expansion Program are in-person visits (referred to as “BR&Es”), which involve conducting productive meetings with local businesses, consulting on their needs and goals, problem-solving issues they may be facing, removing barriers to growth, discussing industry insights, and connecting them with potential financing, partners, and regional and statewide resources. Our Economic Development Division, Neighborhoods Division, and Small Business Team are uniquely positioned 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.
Commonly, BR&E visits are the first-time businesses learn about available resources and incentives, such as site search capabilities, talent/workforce assistance, and competitive financing.
The Department of Community and Economic Development ("DCED") often partners with REDI Cincinnati and JobsOhio on BR&Es.
BR&Es: by the numbers
47
businesses served by DCED staff BR&E visits in 2023
18
20
neighborhoods served by DCED BR&E visits in 2023
Airecon Manufacturing
Golden Gloves
Lloyd Library
of the businesses served in 2023 were women-owned or minority-owned
for more information on 2023's BR&Es and a full list of businesses served, check out page 26 & 27 of our Annual Report
Goal​
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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.
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Who Might Benefit from a BR&E?
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Any business! But especially those that may:
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be unaware of available government services that support local businesses.
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have attempted to reach out to the City for an issue but struggle to “reach the right person.”
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have issues impacting operations but have never considered contacting the City for assistance.
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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!
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Overview of Process
Business leaders interested in participating in a BR&E visit reach out to the program manager listed below. DCED staff may also proactively reach out to potential businesses. If interested, the program manager will follow-up with additional information, if necessary, then refer you to a DCED staff member most appropriate for your industry, location, or need. They will then schedule a meeting with you, learn more about your company, and provide available resources and/or connections during or following the meeting.
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Timeline​
BR&Es are conducted on a rolling basis throughout the calendar year.
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Think you may be interested in a BR&E? Don’t worry – we’ll come to you!
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Just email Senior 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.