ECONOMIC ENGAGEMENT
& INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT
The Franklin County Board of Commissioners is committed to expanding opportunity across the community. A central priority is strengthening neighborhoods to support economic growth and broaden access for all residents. This is advanced by connecting individuals and businesses to essential resources, investing in workforce development, increasing access to funding and contracting for small businesses, and supporting community efforts that reduce barriers to employment and entrepreneurship.
The Commissioners recognize that addressing long-standing gaps in health, education, housing, and economic opportunity requires more than intention. It requires deliberate, data-informed, and sustained action to remove systemic barriers and ensure all residents have a fair opportunity to succeed — regardless of zip code.
OFFICE OF ECONOMIC ENGAGEMENT & COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (EECD)
The Office of Economic Engagement and Community Development (EECD) advances economic mobility across Franklin County by connecting residents, businesses, and communities with the resources, relationships, and support systems needed to succeed. Grounded in three core pillars — Workforce Development, Economic Opportunity, and Community Engagement — EECD collaborates across county agencies and with community partners to strengthen local businesses, expand access to career pathways, and promote long-term economic stability.
EECD's work is centered on expanding access to opportunity by addressing barriers to employment and business growth. The office invests in programs that create pathways into diverse workforce sectors, including fashion, STEM, arts, and healthcare. In fiscal year 2025, EECD directed $53,040,287 in funding to small and emerging businesses and community initiatives.
Purchasing (SEBE)
The Purchasing Department, in collaboration with the Office of Economic Engagement and Community Development (EECD), plays a key role in expanding contracting opportunities for local, small, minority, and emerging businesses. By continuously reviewing contract requirements and removing barriers, they ensure broader participation in county contracts. In 2025, SEBE participation reached $28.7 million in invoices, a 44% increase from the previous year, with the majority of spending driven by the Office on Aging and Job and Family Services.
SEBE participation included various categories such as SEBE vendors, Women Business Enterprises (WBE), Minority Business Enterprises (MBE), and Local Economy Disadvantaged Enterprises (LEDE). To further increase access, the Purchasing Department hosts outreach events, including procurement fairs and Coffee and Conversation sessions, and partners with minority-owned media to reach underserved businesses.
$53m+
Directed to small businesses & community initiatives (FY2025)
250+
Participants at Imagine Forward Conference
3,500+
Viewers reached through 22 educational webinars
12
Agencies with Opportunity Plans developed
$28.7m
In SEBE invoices (44% increase from 2024)
44%
SEBE spending increase year over year
