2024 REPORT ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
Reimagining Growth: A Year of Fresh Starts and Bold Plans
SRPED Board Members:
Seth
Chris
Mayor Kent McDowell, Ex Officio
Brent Wheeler, Ex Officio
The Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development (SRPED) is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt non-profit organization dedicated to serving as a catalyst for economic and community development throughout Fulton County, Illinois. Our mission is to create community partnerships, business opportunities, and implement programs and projects that foster growth and development. SRPED is also focused on Marketing & Tourism in Fulton County, and is a partnering organization on several of the events throughout the year in both Canton and Fulton County, Illinois.
2024 STAFF BIOGRAPHIES
Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development
With two decades of business operations experience, Michelle is passionate about driving economic development in Fulton County.
Michelle earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Capella University with a focus in Management and Leadership and is currently enrolled in the Master’s program in Community and Economic Development at Western Illinois University. Michelle serves on several local boards including Spoon River United Way, Graham Hospital Foundation, Birth to Five Action Council, Lambda Chi Omega Sorority, First Christian Church, and is Ex-Officio for the Spoon River CEO Program and Canton Main Street.
With a dedicated focus on workforce development, downtown revitalization, and business attraction, Michelle helps to serve as a catalyst for community growth in Fulton County.
Michelle Spiva EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR mspiva@cantonillinois.org
Jennie brings a fresh approach with almost ten years in events and marketing within the tourism industry. With her experience, she is equipped to implement tourism marketing and promotional programs to drive leisure and revenue to our local economy.
Jennie grew up in Fulton County, graduating from Cuba High School before completing her Associates Degree with a focus in Business Administration from Spoon River College. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation, Sports, and Tourism Administration from Western Illinois University.
Jennie is working closely with local business owners, professionals, and other key stakeholders to stimulate economic development and increase leisure travel to Fulton County. Jennie is also actively a part of the Spoon River Scenic Drive Association, and a member of the Young Professionals Network. She also sits on the board for the Illinois River Road and is Ex-Officio for Canton Main Street.
Jennie Grove MARKETING AND TOURISM DIRECTOR marketing@cantonillinois.org
MESSAGE FROM Executive Director, Michelle Spiva
Dear Friends, Partners, and Community Members,
As we reflect on 2024, we celebrate a year of growth, transformation, and renewed commitment to the future of Canton and Fulton County. The Spoon River Partnership for Economic Development (SRPED) has embraced change with the addition of a new Executive Director and a new Marketing Director, bringing fresh energy and innovative ideas to our organization. With new leadership, exciting changes are on the horizon, positioning us for even greater impact in the years to come.
This year, we prioritized listening to our community. Through multiple stakeholder meetings and engagement sessions, we ensured that our evolving vision is shaped by the voices of those who live, work, and invest in our region. These conversations have led to a strategic planning process that established clear, measurable goals and actionable strategies, all aimed at driving sustainable economic and community growth.
As we look toward 2025, our focus remains steadfast: fostering business development, strengthening local infrastructure, and enhancing quality of life. Through collaboration with our dedicated partners, we will continue to build a thriving, forward-thinking community that offers opportunity for all.
Thank you for your support and shared commitment to the success of Canton and Fulton County. Together, we are laying the foundation for a bright and prosperous future.
Sincerely,
Michelle Spiva
SRPED would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the Canton City Council and the Fulton County Board for their continued support of our public-private partnership. Through your leadership and collaboration, we have been able to pursue transformative projects that create jobs and foster a thriving business environment. We look forward to continuing our work together in building a stronger future for our community.
2024 BUSINESS RECRUITMENT Tax Increment Financing & Business Development District
In 2024, SRPED played a key role in supporting 18 businesses in completing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) and Business Development District (BDD) applications for projects totaling $8,488,400 in community investment. These ventures are projected to create 120 new jobs, strengthening the local workforce and economy. By guiding business owners to leverage these programs, SRPED continues to drive business expansion, revitalize commercial areas, and ensure sustainable economic growth throughout Fulton County.
2025
Looking to the future of TIF and BDD
SRPED will work with the City of Canton to foster economic growth and community development by strategically utilizing TIF and BDD funds. These resources will be leveraged to attract and support large-scale projects that align with the city’s vision for progress and prosperity.
Specifically, we aim to prioritize initiatives that:
Create 50+ sustainable jobs
Increase the median household income for residents
Expand residential housing availability
Eliminate blighted properties to enhance neighborhood appeal
Generate $1 M + in annual sales revenue
Revitalize downtown buildings to preserve historical significance
2024 BUSINESS RECRUITMENT
Revolving Loan Fund
The SRPED Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) Program is a vital resource supporting local business growth and economic development in Canton and Fulton County. Funded through the USDA, this program provides low-interest financing to entrepreneurs and small businesses looking to start or expand their operations.
THE REVOLVING LOAN FUND OFFERS:
1% Interest Rate
5 year
Repayment Term
As of 2024, the SRPED RLF has $155,000 loaned out to ten different businesses, five of which expanded this year with the program’s support in Canton, Astoria and Lewistown.
By reinvesting loan payments back into the program, SRPED ensures that these resources continue to benefit new and expanding businesses for years to come. This initiative plays a crucial role in strengthening our local economy and driving sustainable development throughout the region.
“Michelle
and the Partnership
have
been so good to my business. From the bottom of my heart, Thank you!
I am so excited to have a place to store and work on my vehicles! I cannot wait!”
Tanya
Graham, Owner, Life Maid Easy
2025 BUSINESS RECRUITMENT
Strategic Plan
In 2025 SRPED will implement a strategic business recruitment plan focused on attracting high-value investments, creating quality jobs, and fostering local entrepreneurship to strengthen Fulton County’s economy.
Targeting Large Scale Investments
SRPED will actively recruit businesses with 50+ employees and $1M+ in annual revenue, leveraging TIF and BDD incentives to attract industries that align with the region’s workforce and economic goals.
Raising the Median Household Income
By prioritizing companies that offer high-paying jobs, we aim to increase local earning potential, improve quality of life, and stimulate economic growth.
Utilizing Placer.ai for Storefront Optimization
Data-driven insights from Placer.ai will help identify market gaps and strategically recruit businesses to fill empty commercial spaces, ensuring sustainable downtown and retail growth.
Creating an Incubator Space for Entrepreneurs
SRPED aims to establish a business incubator to provide startups and small businesses with the resources, mentorship, and support needed to grow and succeed in Fulton County.
2024 RESIDENTIAL HOUSING
IHDA
Project
In October 2024, SRPED joined forces with the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) to launch a year-long partnership to create a community revitalization strategy for the cities of Canton and Lewistown. This initiative aims to identify community strengths and address critical needs through a collaborative, data-driven approach.
The project includes stakeholder meetings, community needs assessments, and a housing stock survey, all designed to gather valuable input from residents, business owners, and local leaders. Community volunteers will play a crucial role in ensuring the success of this effort, helping to collect and analyze data that will inform future development strategies.
The end goal is to conduct a comprehensive market analysis, examining demographic, economic, and housing data to produce a final housing needs assessment. This assessment will serve as a key tool in securing grant funding to rehabilitate blighted and unsafe residential properties.
Community Needs Meeting Fall 2024
Additionally, SRPED will work to obtain tax incentives that will attract developers to invest in workforce housing, addressing local housing shortages and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Through this partnership, SRPED is helping Canton and Lewistown take proactive steps toward revitalization, ensuring a stronger, safer, and more vibrant future for our communities.
Canton
2025 RESIDENTIAL HOUSING Upcoming Projects and Goals
IHDA Housing Stock Survey continues into 2025
In 2025, SRPED will focus on addressing housing challenges and expanding residential opportunities in Fulton County through a comprehensive community revitalization strategy.
Strategies
Complete the Community Revitalization Planning Process with IHDA
This will position SRPED to help secure grant funding for residential projects aimed at reducing blighted and unsafe properties, and enhancing local housing stock.
Add New Residential Housing Units
SRPED will work with developers, property owners, and funding partners to identify and support housing opportunities that meet community needs, with a focus on affordability and workforce housing.
Advance Regional Collaboration on Housing Solutions
SRPED will continue discussions with Prairie Hills Alliance on a 5-County Western Illinois Landbank project, exploring innovative solutions to redevelop abandoned properties, return them to productive use, and support long-term housing growth.
Fall 2024 - Volunteers utilized the IHDA Stock Survey App to score houses in Canton.
2024 QUALITY OF PLACE
Creating Entrepreneur Opportunities
The Spoon River CEO Program is an innovative initiative designed to inspire and equip high school students with the skills and mindset needed for entrepreneurial success. Developed by the Midland Institute, this program provides hands-on learning experiences that connect students with local businesses and community leaders.
SRPED serves as the program’s fiscal sponsor and our Executive Director holds an ex-officio board seat, ensuring strong leadership and community engagement. Throughout 2024, efforts were focused on raising capital, assembling a board, and developing a marketing plan to launch the program successfully.
Students from Canton, Lewistown, VIT, Spoon River Valley, Farmington, and Cuba school districts are eligible to apply for the first cohort, set to begin in the 2025-2026 school year. Participants will gain invaluable experience by visiting local businesses, receiving mentorship from Fulton County leaders, and developing both a class business and their own individual business ventures.
By fostering innovation and leadership in young people, Spoon River CEO is investing in the future of Fulton County, ensuring a thriving business community for generations to come.
76% of program graduates choose to live & work in their hometowns after graduation.
2024 QUALITY OF PLACE
Marketing & Branding
For marketing, we shifted focus on revitalizing the SRPED’s brand to enhance its marketing and tourism appeal. This included a complete image overhaul, with a redesigned logo that captures a more modern and fresh look. The updated visual identity is part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen the region’s presence and attract more businesses, reflecting a contemporary and welcoming image for the Spoon River Partnership.
ORIGINAL
Additionally, we introduced a new marketing plan and implemented advanced software to maximize the effectiveness of our marketing dollars. By leveraging new tools, partnerships and enhanced marketing efforts, we were able to significantly boost attendance for fall 2024 annual events in downtown Canton.
2024 Canton Scenic Drive 106% Increase from 2023
6.8k Visitors
The boosted attendance had a positive ripple effect on local businesses. The strategic marketing efforts resulting in increased patronage at local shops, restaurants, and attractions. This growth in visitors directly supported the economic vitality of downtown Canton, showcasing the broader benefits of tourism to the community.
2024 QUALITY OF PLACE
Enhancing Local Tourism is Underway
In 2024, we began a strategic reboot of the Fulton County tourism program, starting with a new name and label: Explore Fulton County. While a full-scale relaunch is set for 2025, significant updates are already underway behind the scenes. A new visitor guide and website is in development, designed to offer a more engaging and user-friendly experience for visitors.
$24.7 M spent by visitors during 2024 in Fulton County, IL.
Visitor analytics showing community visits and overnight trips.
We began the exciting process of joining the Looking for Lincoln program. While the full integration into the program can take a couple years, we have already started the essential research and communications work to ensure a seamless process. This partnership will help further promote Fulton County as a key destination for those interested in Abraham Lincoln’s legacy, as well as Fulton County’s part in the Underground Railroad.
We have also been spearheading a new immersive journey into the rich history of our region, with neighboring tourism departments to create “The Great Western Illinois Experience”. This new tourism coalition will be tied under the Mythic Mississippi Project with the University of Illinois in order to draw attention to our unique landmarks and heritage while enhancing community development.
2025 QUALITY OF PLACE
Community Plan
In 2025 SRPED will focus on enhancing quality of place initiatives to make Fulton County a more attractive destination for visitors, new residents, and workforce talent. This plan prioritizes tourism growth, population expansion, workforce development, and sustainability, ensuring a thriving and resilient community.
Enhancing Tourism & Overnight Stays
SRPED will strengthen tourism efforts by promoting local attractions, festivals, and events to increase hotel/motel tax revenue and support local businesses. We will collaborate with regional and state tourism partners to market Fulton County as a premier travel destination.
Talent Attraction & Population Growth
A new talent attraction campaign will target young professionals and remote workers, showcasing Fulton County’s affordability, career opportunities, and quality of life to encourage new residents to relocate to the area.
Establishing a Sustainable Community Advisory Committee
A new advisory committee will guide community-driven projects focused on sustainability, green infrastructure, and long-term livability, helping Fulton County develop as an environmentally responsible and forward-thinking region.
Expanding Child Care & Early Childhood Education (ECE)
SRPED will work with local agencies, schools, and child care providers to increase the number of licensed child care facilities and grow the number of skilled ECE teachers, ensuring families have access to quality, affordable child care.
2024 DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION
Placer.ai
SRPED recently purchased a powerful location intelligence platform called Placer.ai that provides real-time data and insights into foot traffic, consumer behavior, and market trends. We are optimistic that we will be able to leverage Placer.ai data and reporting tools to significantly enhance economic development efforts through data-driven decision making.
Through strategic utilization of Placer.ai, SRPED can make more informed economic development decisions, strengthen Fulton County’s business ecosystem, and create data-driven strategies to build a thriving community.
Retail &
Growth Tourism & Event Planning Real Estate & Site Selection
Public Infrastructure & Policy Planning
Workforce Development & Job Creation
2024 DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION
CivicServe
SRPED recently invested in the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool CivicServe to enhance Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) and overall economic growth. This CRM and BRE platform provides a centralized system for tracking business engagement, managing economic development initiatives, and streamlining communication between stakeholders.
By adopting CivicServe, SRPED and Fulton County can enhance economic resilience, improve business support services, and drive strategic growth, ensuring a prosperous future for our region.
2024 DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION
Mapping and LEAP
SRPED joined forces with the Lewistown Economic Advancement Program (LEAP) in August 2024 for the MAPPING the Future Program, developed by the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs (IIRA).
This program is a strategic visioning and planning initiative designed to help rural communities create actionable economic development plans. Through a series of facilitated workshops, local leaders, businesses, and residents collaborate to identify community strengths, challenges, and long-term goals.
The following vision was created:
Lewistown is a thriving community where rich history meets a vibrant future. As a regional hub for outdoor recreation, our revitalized downtown, enhanced infrastructure, and year-round activities create a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike. With a focus on youth care, excellent schools, and opportunities for all ages, Lewistown remains a charming and inviting place to live, grow and connect.
The Mapping the Furture Program Process
2024 DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION
Mapping and LEAP
In order to help Lewistown reach this vision, five action teams were formed, each armed with specific goals, strategies and projects as a guide for success.
Expanding Recreational Activities
Beautifying & Modernizing the Downtown
Attracting New Retail & Dining Establishments
Offering New Festivals & Events
Becoming a Youth-Focused Community
By leveraging this structured planning process, Lewistown is taking charge of their future, ensuring long-term economic stability and growth. SRPED proudly became the fiscal sponsor for LEAP in 2024 to assist them in securing grant funding and private contributions to reach their MAPPING goals for the future.
“Thank you for all you do! I can see you have passion and energy to get things done. Better days are ahead for Canton and Lewistown!”
June Russell, Resident of Lewistown
2025 DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION
Revitalization Plan
In 2025 SRPED will focus on revitalizing downtown districts by supporting existing businesses, improving aesthetics, and recruiting new entrepreneurs. This plan will enhance the vibrancy, economic activity, and long-term sustainability of Fulton County’s downtown areas.
Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) Support
Through CivicServe, SRPED will strengthen relationships with downtown businesses, track challenges, and provide resources to help them grow and succeed, ensuring long-term stability.
Facade Improvement Grant Funding
SRPED will work to secure grant funding to assist property owners with façade renovations, signage, and exterior enhancements, preserving historic charm while modernizing storefronts.
Entrepreneurial Recruitment & Marketing Plan
A targeted marketing campaign will highlight available storefronts, business incentives, and community support, attracting entrepreneurs and small business owners to invest in downtown spaces.
2024 CONTRIBUTORS & STAKEHOLDERS
Thank you to those who make this possible
Dear SRPED Contributors and
Stakeholders,
As we reflect on 2024, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your unwavering support, dedication, and partnership in driving economic growth and community development throughout Fulton County. Your contributions have been instrumental in helping us support local businesses, attract new investments, and create opportunities that strengthen our region.
This year, thanks to your support, SRPED has:
Assisted 18 businesses in securing TIF and BDD funding for projects totaling $8,488,400 in community investment.
Helped launch many new initiatives for community growth including CEO, Explore Fulton County, and IHDA Partnership.
Completed an in-depth strategic planning process to create measurable objectives for economic success in 2025.
None of this would be possible without the collaboration, vision, and commitment of our business community, local leaders, and dedicated stakeholders like you. We look forward to continuing our work together in 2025 to make Fulton County an even stronger and more prosperous place to live, work, and do business.
Thank you for all that you do!
Best regards,
Michelle Spiva Jennie Grove Executive Director Marketing & Tourism Director
THANK YOU TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS!
COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPER
COMMUNITY PLANNER
COMMUNITY MARKETER
COMMUNITY SUPPORTER
Crawfords Home Furnishings
Fulton County Farm Bureau
Kevin Stephenson
Monical’s Pizza of Canton
State Farm Insurance – Chuck Taylor
Edward Jones – Rusty Melhouse
Carle Health City of Lewistown
First Christian Church
Holly Henline – Graham Health Systems
Sycamore Acres – Erin Ahart
Town & Country Insurance Agency, Ltd.
Bar-Mac Farm
Canton Township Office
Shelter Insurance – Todd Fletcher
Quick Electrical Contractors, Inc. – Aaron & Lisa Quick
Pat & Fran Carter
Sarah Keefer – Keefer Financial Tenacious, Inc. – Carol Davis