Village of East Palestine Partnering with Small Nation to Boost Downtown Revitalization Efforts

The Village of East Palestine is collaborating with Small Nation on a strategic plan for downtown revitalization. This partnership, facilitated by JobsOhio, connects Small Nation’s expertise in revitalizing Ohio’s small downtowns with the local knowledge to empower business owners, property stakeholders, and entrepreneurs with a developmental strategy for the future of East Palestine.

“The partnership between the Village of East Palestine and the experts at Small Nation is a first step in driving new economic development opportunities for the close-knit downtown community,” said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef. “JobsOhio and our regional network partners at Lake to River have witnessed the resiliency and commitment of the people of East Palestine and look forward to the recommendations that this collaboration will generate.”

On November 22, the Small Nation team visited East Palestine for a downtown tour. The tour offered attendees a firsthand look at local assets and growth opportunities and a real estate and business strategy session tailored to the village’s needs. 

“Small Nation is excited to begin working with East Palestine,” said Jason Duff, Founder and CEO of Small Nation. “Every good comeback story starts with supporting people and businesses with good ideas. The Village is full of those folks, and I’ve already connected with several.”

Duff continues, “Our unique process when working with towns starts with listening. We learn the town’s history, its unique characteristics, existing businesses and beloved places. This includes a survey of business types and experiences, those that are locally celebrated, and what may be missing. The latter can then be identified as opportunities to act on.”

As part of the visit, Duff shared proven techniques for downtown property and business development. Since its initial presentation to East Palestine’s Community Improvement Corporation (CIC) in May, Small Nation’s model has sparked enthusiasm as stakeholders recognize its potential for sustainable, locally driven economic revival.

“This initiative wouldn’t be possible without the support of JobsOhio, whose funding made Small Nation’s involvement a reality,” said East Palestine Councilman and early advocate, Lenny Glavan. “JobsOhio’s regional network partner, Lake to River has also played key roles in aligning regional resources and enthusiasm behind East Palestine’s revitalization.”

This partnership gives East Palestine a unique opportunity to revitalize its downtown, foster economic renewal, and create a vibrant community hub. The initiative is already underway, and its success depends on the active involvement of East Palestine’s business community, property owners, and aspiring entrepreneurs, all of whom have the power to shape the village’s future.