ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

WHAT WE DO

Economic Development Plan

When you invest in Elyria, we invest in you. Whether you are a new, expanding, or potential business, our team is ready to partner with you on your journey to success. 

Build a City for Entrepreneurs

Elyria is building an ecosystem that makes it easier for business startups to get the support they need to succeed. This includes packaging easy-to-access loans and capital, affordable retail and office space, customers, and coaching.

Attract Employers Through Upskilling our Workforce

Investing in Elyrians is a win-win proposition: residents will be equipped with in-demand skills and employers will be surrounded by the workforce they need.

Grow the Businesses Currently in Elyria

The City of Elyria is committed to providing an environment that supports the growth of our businesses. This means thoughtfully developing channels for businesses to access talent and capital as well as improving City infrastructure needs such as parking and roads. Our desire is for the voices of our small businesses to be heard in a consistent and meaningful way so that we can respond and grow together.

Dawn Calvert

Director of Economic Transformation & Business Services
Dawn Calvert is the former president and CEO of Team Lorain County, with 10 years of experience in economic development. Her experience includes business retention and/or expansions, incentive packaging, brownfields and collaboration.

Calvert is responsible for working with City departments to ensure that operations are efficient and business-friendly, all while developing and managing Economic Transformation and Business Services programs and initiatives, including: The Skill City/Elyria Works 2.0 Initiative, new Economic Development and Business Services, and the ETABS Council.