Become a financial partner with the Southeastern Ohio Port Authority

Invest in Washington County’s future

The Port Authority is funded through private donations from area businesses, industry, and individuals (roughly $75,000 annually) and by an annual appropriation from the County Commission ($175,000.00 for 2024). Our partners are critical to the future development of our county.

As a SeOPA financial partner, you’ll play a critical role in creating opportunities for businesses and residents alike. Whether through financial contributions, in-kind support, or collaboration on strategic projects, your involvement makes a tangible difference in the growth and sustainability of our region.

Financial Gifts

Contributions can be made through the Marietta Community Foundation or directly to the Port Authority as tax-deductible gifts, annually, quarterly or monthly.

To support our mission, you can send donations via PayPal → Make a gift via PayPal

Land Donations

Shovel-ready sites (sites with all utilities) are key to bringing in new business; therefore, we are focused on the upgrade and expansion of the County’s basic infrastructure (i.e. water, sewer, gas, electric, and fiber). Land is at a premium locally, so for those of you who want to invest for the long term, you can gift acreage for future development or allocate seed funds to finance a new project.

SeOPA is not classified as a 501-C3; it is a government entity and the IRS ruled the Port Authority is tax-exempt and can receive tax-exempt charitable donations.

Make an online gift

“As a small business with big plans, it can be overwhelming trying to navigate the various opportunities available to grow our business. The SeOPA has been critical to our success, helping us to connect with the community, identify promising opportunities, and navigate the support options available. The past few years of partnership have exceeded our wildest expectations, and we look forward to many more decades of working with SeOPA!”

— Grant Scheider, Owner, Ataraxia Properties, Inc.

“In my three and a half years as a Washington County Commissioner, I have seen a positive transformation regarding economic development. The relationship with our Port Authority has grown into a united vision to enhance assets and infrastructure which ultimately will create jobs. This vision provides a community development solution to make Washington County a better place to live, raise a family, work, and play.”

— Charlie Schilling, Washington County Commissioner

Support Washington County’s growth with an annual gift at a level that works for you

Choose your impact!

Pioneers

$5,000 and up

Support the work of the SeOPA at our highest level. As a Pioneer, you lead the charge in transforming Southeastern Ohio, driving growth and innovation with your visionary support. Your investment helps pave the way for lasting economic progress.

Founders

$2,500 -$4,999

Founders are the backbone of our mission, helping to lay the foundation for a prosperous future. Your commitment ensures we can continue building opportunities that benefit the region.

Settlers

$1,000 - $2,499

As a Settler, you help establish a thriving community by supporting essential initiatives. Your contribution plays a vital role in shaping the local economy for generations to come.

Make your annual gift