Support Organizations

Economic Development in Champaign County is not a solitary endeavor.  In fact, the core group of local economic development officials coordinate their efforts and meet weekly to stay abreast of community, business and governmental happenings.  Listed below, you will see information about several ancillary organizations which, while not always directly involved in economic development initiatives, are nonetheless important partners in our efforts.  

Community Improvement corporation

The Champaign County CIC is a State of Ohio-endorsed non-profit community development organization which is described in the Ohio Revised Code (ORC) and designed to advance, encourage and promote the industrial, economic, commercial, and civic development of the county.  Under the ORC rules, the CIC may develop vacant land, rehabilitate buildings, develop industrial parks, practice code enforcement and engage in borrowing funds or issuing bonds to further it's stated cause.  The Champaign County CIC is governed by an independent board of directors.

Champaign County Chamber of Commerce

A member-supported and centered non-profit organization comprised of nearly 300 businesses located and/or doing business in Champaign County.  The Chamber provides opportunities for networking, cost savings and training to member companies and advocates for and promotes local businesses to the commuity and region.  

Monument Square District

A volunteer-driven, non-profit organization which is charged with enhancing the business, consumer and residential experience in downtown Urbana, through strengthening business operations, streetscape and other aesthetic improvements, event production and strategic investments.   Although not formally a Main Street program, MSD does loosely follow the National Trust for Historic Preservation's Main Street model.  

The United Way of Clark, Champaign & Madison Counties

The United Way is a volunteer driven organization that exists to support the social service and welfare needs of our community. The local United Way had its beginnings in Clark County in 1921 and is responsible for fund raising to support several critical community organizations, distribution to those agencies, oversight of spending and monitoring how those funds  impact our community.  The fundraising goal for 2010 is $1.5M.

Rotary club of urbana

Comprised of business, government and community leaders, The Rotary Club of Urbana has been in existence since 1957 serving the youth of the community and supporting world-wide Rotary initiatives.

Fast Facts

Champaign County is conveniently nestled in the heart of west central Ohio.

  • Established in 1805
  • 30 miles from Columbus or Dayton; 10 miles from Springfield
  • Serviced by U.S. Routes 68 and 36; within 15 miles of Interstates 70 and 75
  • Blend of service, retail, manufacturing and agricultural businesses
  • Miles of bike trails, hiking trails, rivers and wooded area wind its way through the county
  • Population approximately 39,800; 428 square miles
  • Quaint shopping, dining and art/antique shops
  • Home to Warren Grimes the "father of aviation lighting"
  • Well-known Champaign Countians include: William Saxbe, Clancy Brown, Johnny Appleseed and A.B. Graham
  • Airport: Grimes Field (General Aviation)
  • Home to Urbana University
  • Destinations: Simon Kenton recreation trails, Cedar Bog, Ohio Caverns, Johnny Appleseed Museum, Mad River, Champaign County Fairgrounds, Kiser Lake State Park

 

 

Support, Programs & Incentives