OAQDA Approves up to $3.45 Million for Small Business Projects in Butler, Hamilton, Cuyahoga, and Franklin Counties

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 24, 2026
Media Contact: Lindsey Sanders
[email protected]
419-618-1708

OAQDA Approves up to $3.45 Million for Small Business Projects in Butler, Hamilton, Cuyahoga, and Franklin Counties

COLUMBUS - At its April board meeting, the Ohio Air Quality Development Authority (OAQDA) approved up to $3.45 million in financing to support multiple projects across Ohio that will help businesses improve air quality and retain and create jobs. The local economies will receive benefits from these projects, valued at $3.7 million.

The approved projects include three small business dry cleaning operations in Butler, Hamilton, and Cuyahoga counties, as well as an energy-saving technology project in Franklin County. Together, these projects will support more than 20 existing jobs, with additional job creation expected as the businesses grow. They are also projected to generate at least $1.7 million in economic impact through local investment, operational savings, and increased business activity, while delivering an additional $2 million in public health benefits from removing perchloroethylene (PERC) in dry cleaning operations and meaningful health and environmental benefits for surrounding communities.

"These projects demonstrate OAQDA at its best - helping Ohio small business leaders make strategic investments that improve their operations to save money, stay competitive, and contribute to healthier workplaces for their community," said Christina O'Keeffe, executive director of OAQDA. "For small businesses especially, these projects are possible through OAQDA's access to lower-cost financing options and can make a real difference every day, whether that's safer equipment, lower operating costs, or the ability to grow."

Approved Projects include:

• Always Us, LLC dba Pleasant Run Cleaners is a longstanding, family-owned dry cleaning business in Butler County that has been the only cleaner in the community for several years. As the current owner retires, new ownership is stepping in to continue serving the community and build on the business's legacy. The project will replace two older machines with a single modern system featuring dual tanks that can safely and efficiently handle a wider range of garments. This upgrade will eliminate the use of more hazardous solvents, improve safety for employees, and provide a cleaner, more environmentally friendly process for customers. The business currently employs five people and expects to add three to five additional jobs as operations expand. The project will be supported by up to $80,000 in financing, along with additional financial assistance of up to $16,000 to help offset upfront costs and support long-term sustainability.
  
  
• Apparel Care, LLC dba Apparel Care Cleaners, a veteran-owned and long-standing business in Hamilton County, will upgrade equipment that has been in use since the owner first entered the industry. Motivated by a commitment to both his employees and the community, the owner is investing in a modern system that eliminates harmful leaks and fumes associated with older machines, creating a safer and healthier workplace. Operating in both Ohio and Kentucky, the owner noted that access to programs like those offered through OAQDA makes it significantly easier to invest in cleaner technology in Ohio. The project will retain six jobs and position the business for continued service to its community. It will be supported by up to $85,000 in financing, along with additional financial assistance of up to $17,000 to help offset upfront costs and support continued investment in the business.
  
  
• Quickly Cleaned Laundry Services Inc. dba Kwick-N-Clean, a family-owned business in Cuyahoga County, has been owned and operated by a married couple for more than 30 years, building both their business and their life together side by side. After recovering from an electrical fire in 2019, the owners are continuing to reinvest in their operations to ensure long-term success. This project will upgrade to a hydrocarbon solvent machine that reduces harmful emissions and improves environmental performance, while supporting safer conditions for employees. The investment will help strengthen continued operations and retain five full-time jobs. The project will be supported by up to $85,000 in financing, along with additional financial assistance of up to $17,000 to help offset upfront costs and support future growth.
  
  
• REP Entertainment Limited dba REP Fieldhouse in Franklin County will transform an existing facility into a flexible, high-performance sports complex designed to serve a wide range of community needs. The project includes both the renovation of an existing building and the new construction of additional space, creating a multi-use environment capable of hosting youth sports, tournaments, and weekend community events. The facility will feature two full-size soccer fields and two box lacrosse fields, and will support year-round programming such as basketball, jiu-jitsu, and other activities that bring the community together. Led by a family team inspired by their own three sons, the project reflects a strong commitment to community investment and active lifestyles. In addition to its recreational impact, the project incorporates high-performance building systems, including energy-efficient HVAC, LED lighting, advanced insulation, and behind-the-meter energy generation. These improvements are expected to reduce overall energy costs by approximately 20 percent, supporting long-term operational sustainability. The project will be supported by up to $3.2 million in financing to advance the development and implementation of these energy-saving building systems.

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The Ohio Air Quality Development Authority (OAQDA) is an independent state agency that partners with cities, counties and other municipalities across the state to stimulate job growth, drive economic benefits and improve community health through financing air quality projects.
OAQDA's primary activity is to further economic development in Ohio by providing financing
and incentives for projects that cause a reduction in air emissions, regardless of whether the
project uses coal, natural gas, oil or another resource type. Since its creation in 1970, OAQDA has issued more than $6 billion in revenue bonds for air quality projects to help Ohio employers achieve energy cost reductions and improve air quality. For more information about OAQDA and its services, please visit ohioairquality.ohio.gov.