About Us

Our mission is to secure Marion County’s economic future through the facilitation of job creation, improving the local tax base, and bringing government and industry together.

Marion CANDO! (Community Area New Development Organization) began in 1993 by a group of citizens who believed it was time for the community to focus its resources on rejuvenating the area economy. The process of facilitating growth and expansion was considered essential by community minded individuals and organizations. Area partnerships were forged to target and court companies. Marketing and development plans needed to be prepared and refined. All of this in an effort to provide effective and successful economic development services.

In 1997, CANDO! acquired approximately 450 acres of industrial land northwest of Marion. Known as the Dual Rail Industrial Park, it is now the home to ArcelorMittal, Marion Industries, Sakamura and U.S. Yachiyo. CANDO! continues to market and develop the remaining 200 acres within the Park.

Today, CANDO! is a 501c(3) corporation with assets that includes land in the Dual Rail Industrial Park land and the 205 West Center Street office building. Located in downtown Marion, this office building is home to CANDO!, the Marion Area Chamber of Commerce and the Center Street Community Clinic. As in the past, CANDO! strives to market and develop the Marion Area in an effort to provide a viable economic climate.

Marion CANDO! is governed by a 16-member board of trustees. The composition of the Board represents a public/private partnership with seven public sector and nine private sector member appointments. The Board is primarily responsible for the establishment of policies and the general direction of the organization’s work. Staff consists of a President and Administrative Assistant.

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