BELMONT COUNTY, Ohio — Economic development in southeastern Ohio was a major topic at the Belmont County Commissioners meeting Wednesday and one new leader was on hand to discuss his agency’s mission to facilitate success in the region.
Matt Abbott, the new President and CEO of Ohio Southeast Economic Development addressed the commissioners on economic partnerships and opportunities.
Originally from New Concord in Muskingum County, Abbott brings more than a decade of experience in local development and says his focus is on expanding cooperation, investing in critical infrastructure, and making southeastern Ohio more competitive for business and industry. Abbott was the prior Director of the Muskingum County Port Authority.
Abbott is visiting the area as part of his early efforts to engage with community stakeholders and understand each county’s unique assets and challenges.
“This isn’t my first trip to Belmont County, but I’m excited to be back in this new role. We’re spending time looking at sites, exploring the area’s attributes, and talking with local partners about how we can align resources to support future growth.”
Matt Abbott, President and CEO of Ohio Southeast Economic Development
Ohio Southeast is one of seven regional network partners working with JobsOhio, the state’s economic development agency. As a nonprofit organization, Ohio Southeast plays a pivotal role in project management, business retention and expansion, workforce support, and site development across a 25-county region.
Abbott explained that business outreach is a top priority, with Ohio Southeast engaging more than 300 companies annually to understand their needs and link them to incentive programs from state, federal, and regional sources. Finding suitable land for development is part of his mission.
“Site development is more than just finding land. It’s making sure it has the infrastructure to be competitive — water, wastewater, fiber, gas, electric. All the things a business looks for when deciding where to invest.”
Matt Abbott, President and CEO of Ohio Southeast Economic Development
Beyond physical infrastructure, Ohio Southeast also offers workforce and HR support — particularly important for the region’s many small businesses that may not have large back-office teams. Their talent services help with recruiting, wage analysis, and best practices in human resources.
Larry Merry, long-time Executive Director of the Belmont County Port Authority, emphasized how crucial Ohio Southeast’s role has been in recent years.
“When Jobs Ohio was created, there wasn’t a strong presence for this part of the state. Ohio Southeast filled that gap. It’s an organization built to work hand-in-hand with Jobs Ohio, and now with Matt at the helm, I think it’s going places we haven’t even imagined yet.”
Larry Merry, Director of the Belmont County Port Authority
Merry pointed to several successful collaborations, including current projects in local riverfront communities. With access to state resources and a growing team of project managers familiar with local needs, the organization is helping communities seize opportunities for economic revitalization.
Abbott echoed those sentiments, highlighting the shared vision and mutual support required between local and regional partners.
“Economic development doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s about lifting each other up, sharing what works, and being proactive. Programs like the Rural Industrial Park Loan Program, the Appalachian Community Grant Program, and the Ohio Site Inventory Program are giving us the tools — we just need to continue working together to use them effectively.”
Matt Abbott, President and CEO of Ohio Southeast Economic Development
Abbott also addressed the misconception that rural areas like Belmont County are often forgotten when it comes to development efforts.
“There is truth in feeling left behind sometimes, but I also believe we can’t wait for someone to rescue us. This region has incredible assets — from power and water infrastructure to river access and transportation. It’s our job to make sure we’re showcasing those strengths and attracting the right opportunities.”
Matt Abbott, President and CEO of Ohio Southeast Economic Development
As Ohio Southeast continues to build momentum under new leadership, Belmont County commissioners say they’re optimistic the partnership and potential for new development and jobs.
