May 15, 2024
Changes are happening quickly in Huron County as the Huron County Chamber of Commerce, Huron County Development Council and Norwalk Economic Development Corporation join forces and transition to the Huron County Growth Partnership. This partnership allows the like-minded organizations to share assets and grow their internal teams to better serve and grow all of Huron County for years to come. With this collaboration, HCGP is congratulating and welcoming its newest members and an internal promotion.
Andrea Welfle joined Huron County Growth Partnership as the Marketing & Community Outreach Coordinator. Andrea, born and raised in Norwalk, moved back home last year with her husband, Chad, and two sons, Kaden and Archer, after a 5-year stint in the Atlanta area. With a degree in Business Administration and Marketing, extensive marketing and project management experience and former business owner, Andrea is most excited to work closely with and help businesses grow and expand in Huron County. Andrea says, “Norwalk has always been home for us. Even when we moved away, we loved coming back and each visit home was never quite long enough. Upon reading the responsibilities of this role I knew I had to find a way to be a part of this team and when I was offered the position, I instantly felt a greater sense of purpose. I am excited to play a more active role within my community and help continue to build upon what already makes Huron County such a great place to live and raise a family. I felt welcomed and a vital part of the team on Day 1 here.”
Emily Baker also joined Huron County Growth Partnership as the new Administrative Assistant. She is a graduate of Ohio Northern University and previously worked for the Fisher-Titus Foundation. She also worked in the advancement offices at both St. Paul and ONU. She is deeply rooted in the Norwalk community, having grown up here, and plans to continue her personal and professional life here. She is a member of the Norwalk Jaycees and the United Fund. Emily is also track and girls’ basketball coach at St. Paul – her alma mater. When asked why she is excited for this role at HCGP Baker says, “I chose this career path to give back. Throughout my life I have been surrounded by generous, community-minded people who spend much of their time supporting Norwalk and the neighboring communities. This is my way of saying thank you to them while continuing their efforts. As a young professional planning to stay in the area and eventually raise a family here, I am excited to be a part of Huron County’s future growth and work alongside so many individuals who are committed to the success of our local communities.”
HCGP has also announced an internal promotion. Kayla Cross, formerly the Administrative & Economic Development Assistant at Norwalk Economic Development Corporation has been promoted to Economic Development Coordinator for the Huron County Growth Partnership. In this new role, Cross will have more capacity to focus on proactive outreach to Huron County businesses and provide hands-on support for business attraction, expansion projects, job retention, and aligning the county’s workforce needs.
RISE – Regional Incubator for Sustainability & Entrepreneurship, is a shared partner for both Erie and Huron Counties and a partner of the Huron County Growth Partnership. RISE is thrilled to welcome David Long as a valuable addition to the advisory team. With his extensive experience in supporting start-ups and growing businesses, David’s contributions will enrich the program and enhance the success of our entrepreneurs. David’s financial expertise, combined with his dedication to fostering prosperity for entrepreneurs, makes him an exceptional resource. As he joins forces with RISE long-time advisor Dennis Cocco, they anticipate witnessing even more inspiring journeys and transformational growth within the region’s entrepreneurial landscape. David’s commitment to guiding and coaching entrepreneurs aligns perfectly with RISE’s mission, and they eagerly anticipate the positive impact he will have on the businesses served. His presence will further bolster the program and foster an environment where dreams are realized and local economies thrive. David says, “I’ve spent more than thirty years working with start-ups and growing businesses, so I am excited to bring my expertise to RISE. My financial background coupled with my passion in seeing entrepreneurs prosper will help me guide and coach program clients. I look forward to watching these entrepreneurs bring their dreams to life, while helping to contribute to economic growth in the region.”
The Huron County Growth Partnership is a non-profit, public-private partnership that facilitates business and community growth through economic development and chamber of commerce activities and services. The Growth Partnership aims to grow our community and economy, support businesses, secure resources for and make a name for our community. If you are interested in expanding your existing business into or starting a new business venture in Huron County, please contact us at director@huroncountyohio.com or visit them at 12 Benedict Ave. in Norwalk. The Huron County Growth Partnership asks that you save the date, September 10th, for their annual awards at the Village Barn in Monroeville.
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