Shagbark Seed & Mill, in collaboration with JobsOhio, Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE), and the Athens County Economic Development Council (ACEDC), today announced an investment of over $128,000 to expand its operations in Athens County, creating three new jobs.
Shagbark Seed & Mill, an Ohio-based certified organic mill that processes Ohio’s organic grain and bean crops, is partnering with Ohio family farms to offer freshly milled and delicious heirloom products.
“This investment is going to help us work with more farmers, make more products, and connect with more customers throughout the region,” said Michelle Ajamian, Founding Partner of Shagbark Seed & Mill.
Shagbark Seed & Mill has been offering Single-Source, Ohio-grown, Certified Organic Heirloom Grain and Dry Beans since 2010. Currently operating out of a 5,000-square-foot facility, Shagbark’s vision is to build a seed processing center where many businesses, from maltsters to tempeh kitchens, using organic crops grown in the region, work in an integrated facility with shared services, shipping and receiving and more. The company partners with local farms, restaurants, schools, bakeries and home kitchens across the region.
With this investment, the company will increase its electricity capacity, allowing for improvements in efficiency and new equipment. These improvements will alleviate the backlog, reduce energy costs, and significantly increase production. They will also mark a key milestone in the company’s long-term strategy to expand into a larger facility and scale operations in the future.
“Shagbark has longstanding roots in the region’s food and agriculture industry and has made a name for themselves far beyond the bounds of Athens,” said Mollie Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the Athens County Economic Development Council. “We are excited to see the company’s strategic growth strategy and grateful for the support from JobsOhio.”
This investment is supported by a $50,000 JobsOhio Small Business Grant. The JobsOhio Small Business Grant provides grants to support the growth of small businesses that face unique challenges because they are either located in a qualifying zip code or are owned by an eligible population, which includes minorities, women, veterans, and people with disabilities. To qualify, the company must have an eligible project and meet business size and industry requirements.
“We applaud Shagbark Seed & Mill for their continued commitment to excellence and innovation,” said Katy Farber, Vice President of OhioSE. “This project not only strengthens their position in the market but also fosters economic growth and opportunity in Athens County.”
Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE) is the JobsOhio Network Partner for southern, eastern, and southeastern Ohio, providing economic development work and resources in 25 rural counties. Geographically the largest of the seven regions across the state, OhioSE partners closely with regional development districts, local economic development offices, state agencies, and other entities to expand, retain, and attract businesses in the counties they serve.
