Innovation and Investment: Claremore Manufacturers Selected for State Economic Programs

May 8, 2025

Claremore Economic Development 

Across the country, industries are experiencing a growing demand for skilled labor. Meeting this demand is essential to sustaining Oklahoma’s economic growth and ensuring a competitive, robust workforce.

Two Claremore-based manufacturers have been awarded state funding from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, reinforcing Rogers County’s role as a hub for industrial innovation and growth. EMCO Industries, LLC received support through the Business Expansion Incentive Program (BIEP) in recognition of significant capital investment plans aimed at expanding advanced manufacturing capabilities. 

“Being selected for the 2025 Business Expansion Incentive Program is an honor and a testament to the hard work of our entire team,” said Marcus Hester, President of EMCO Industries. “This investment will allow us to increase our manufacturing capacity, create new jobs, and continue delivering high-quality products that meet the evolving needs of our customers. We’re proud to be part of Claremore’s growing industrial base and grateful for the state’s continued support of local manufacturers.”

Pelco Structural was also selected as a recipient of the 2025 Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program (OIEP). These incentive awards will fuel equipment upgrades, operational expansion and the creation of high-quality jobs, strengthening the manufacturing base in the Claremore area.

“At Pelco Structural, we’re proud to be part of a manufacturing community that’s committed to innovation and long-term growth,” said William Cralley, President/GM of Pelco Structural. “Receiving support through the 2025 Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program allows us to expand our capabilities and create more opportunities. As demand for skilled labor continues to rise, programs like OIEP are essential to helping companies like ours stay competitive and contribute to a stronger economy.”

Launched in 2021 by Governor Kevin Stitt, OIEP provides targeted funding to qualifying manufacturers across Oklahoma. Administered by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce in partnership with the Oklahoma Development Finance Authority, the program is designed to support high-impact capital investments that help diversify the state’s economy, lead to new product development and increase capacity at existing companies. In addition to promoting economic diversification, the program also supports job retention and the creation of new employment opportunities statewide.

During the 2025 OIEP application cycle, the Oklahoma Department of Commerce awarded 201 projects grants. These investments will support $82 million in capital projects and are expected to create 967 new jobs with a projected economic impact of $278 million. 

“Claremore’s manufacturing sector continues to set a high standard for innovation, growth and global competitiveness,”said Meggie Froman-Knight, Executive Director of Claremore Economic Development. “Pelco Structural and EMCO Industries exemplify the type of forward-thinking companies that are driving our local economy and creating high-quality jobs. Their selection for the 2025 OIEP grant program reflects their leadership in industry advancement and commitment to long-term investment in Rogers County. We congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.”

Those interested in exploring career opportunities with Pelco Structural, EMCO Industries or other employers in the area can visit the Rogers County Career Portal at www.careers.morestartshere.com.