Economic Action Group launched two initiatives in 2025 as it focused on strategic expansion and core partnership development to move the Mahoning Valley forward, Daniel Bancroft, operations manager, says.
The Downtown Youngstown Ambassador Program launched in September with three ambassadors, Bancroft reports. Ambassadors picked up 632 gallons of litter, interacted with 1,200 business personnel and patrons and supported 76 events. In addition, they plowed and salted 12.9 miles of walkways.
According to the Funding Impact Analysis, funded by The Raymond John Wean Foundation, data analyzed from 32 nonprofit interviews found that up to 40% of organizations anticipate reductions in staff or service scaling within 12-18 months, while increased need for nonprofit services due to economic challenges and legislative changes.
The Commercial Property Revitalization Program continued its support of local businesses, highlighted by the reopening of Hackett’s Pub within the program’s focus area, he says. Additionally, the CITY Program achieved record growth with 20 interns placed throughout the community.
While early implementation of the Downtown Strategic Plan is visible through monthly event calendars at over 70 downtown businesses, the full plan will be released in 2026 in collaboration with the city of Youngstown and the Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber.
EAG’s plans for 2026 include partnering with the Youngstown Neighborhood Development Corp. on the Mahoning Avenue corridor, finalizing the $1.5 million-plus redevelopment of Ipe Park on Youngstown’s south side as an inclusive and accessible playground and celebrating the America250 anniversary with a commemorative
mural.
These efforts are supported by core partners, funders and community members working to revitalize the region, Bancroft says.
Pictured at top: Economic Action Group launched its Downtown Youngstown Ambassador program in 2025. Members are (from left) Jessica Robinson-McNees, Joe Jadue and Vash Penn.
