CHILLICOTHE, OH — Small businesses are the backbone of America’s economy, and a new partnership between Fluor-BWXT (FBP) and the Joint Economic Development Initiative of Southern Ohio (JEDISO) is making strides to support their growth. Through their Opportunity Fund, these organizations are helping small businesses across a four-county region, with the latest grant awarded to the Murphy-Hoffman Corporation (MHC), which received $12,850 to aid in its expansion.
“This couldn’t have come at a better time,” said John Horn, President and CEO of MHC. “We recently launched a new business line, MHC Road Force, and this grant will help us continue to grow and develop.”
MHC, a multi-state network of Kenworth dealerships, offers a full range of truck-related services to more than 50,000 customers. The company’s newest venture, MHC Road Force, focuses on manufacturing dump truck beds.
“To expand, we need to purchase a crane hoist and position equipment,” Horn explained. “This new product line will have a positive impact on the Ross County economy by serving Kenworth and other truck brands in the area.”
Tim Poe, FBP Community Commitment Chair, expressed his support for MHC’s growth, saying, “This company has doubled its workforce and continues to play a vital role in the region’s economic development. We are pleased to provide this grant to help accelerate their success.”
Fluor-BWXT has long been committed to fostering economic growth in Southern Ohio through its partnership with JEDISO. Since 2011, FBP has invested over $5.5 million in grants, helping to create and retain thousands of jobs across Jackson, Pike, Ross, and Scioto counties.
“The core of this initiative is providing resources that are tailored to each county while also facilitating regional collaboration to create and retain jobs,” said Tammy Eallonardo, Director of Greater Chillicothe and Ross County Development. “This localized approach allows us to maximize the impact across the four counties.”
For more information about JEDISO, visit www.choosesouthernohio.com or call 740-286-2838. To learn more about Fluor-BWXT, visit www.fbportsmouth.com or call 740-987-2432.
