Van Wert Forward is honored to be featured in Governing Magazine‘s recent article, “One Small Town’s Special Sauce for Economic Revival,” highlighting our innovative approach to downtown revitalization. 

The article showcases how the Van Wert County Foundation, celebrating its centennial, chose to invest locally by launching Van Wert Forward. By reallocating a portion of its $100 million in assets, the Foundation acquired 63 downtown buildings—about half of Van Wert’s commercial and mixed-use properties—to transform them into vibrant spaces for living, working, and gathering. 

Through a strategic blend of federal and state historic tax credits, Ohio’s Transformational Mixed-Use Tax Credit, private donations, and local equity—including significant support from Central Insurance—Van Wert Forward completed its first $26 million phase without incurring debt. This phase delivered 36 fully leased apartments and activated ground-floor spaces now home to businesses like a bridal shop and an event venue, with more to come. 

As CEO, Seth Baker notes, the initiative is driven by a vision to create a well-resourced and thriving quality of life for our community. This national recognition affirms our belief that small towns can lead with bold, community-rooted solutions.

Read the full article here: Governing Magazine – One Small Town’s Special Sauce for Economic Revival