Kikkoman Foods’ expansion into Jefferson County received the Project of the Year Award (Small Division) from the Mid-America Economic Development Council. The award was presented at the 2024 Mid-America Competitiveness Conference, held December 4–6 in Columbus, Ohio. Thrive Economic Development President Deb Reinbold and Mayor Dale Oppermann from the City of Jefferson accepted the award.
This prestigious award recognizes the Kikkoman project as a model of collaboration and innovation with measurable impact on Jefferson County and the region. Kikkoman Foods selected the Jefferson site from more than 60 locations nationwide for its state-of-the-art, 240,000-square-foot production facility, currently under construction in the newly developed Food & Beverage Innovation Campus. The facility is a model of sustainability, utilizing cutting-edge technology and renewable energy to set new industry standards.
This project embodies the power of partnership, bringing together representatives from the city, county, state, school district, technical college, utilities and workforce development board to promote the Jefferson site as the ideal location for the Kikkoman facility.
“The Kikkoman project exemplifies what can be achieved when public and private sectors come together with a shared vision for growth and innovation,” said Deborah Reinbold, President of Thrive Economic Development. “This investment is not only transforming Jefferson County but is also setting the stage for long-term economic vitality across the region.”
“The success of our Mid America Economic Development awards highlights the incredibly deep impact that innovative projects can have on communities. These awards recognize collective efforts creating vibrant, dynamic communities where opportunities flourish and innovation thrives. We have tremendous momentum for the future.” Matt Marshall, President, Mid America EDC.
pictured: Mayor Dale Oppermann, ThriveED President Deb Reinbold and Matt Marshall, president of MidAmerica EDC