Broken Arrow businesses receive $1.1M boost for innovation, jobs

Several Broken Arrow businesses are getting a financial boost through a program from the state as part of an effort to encourage innovation and job growth.

More than $1.12 million in total funding has been awarded to several Broken Arrow companies through the Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program, a statewide initiative managed by the Department of Commerce.

The goal is to support companies investing in automation, equipment and expansion and to fuel long-term economic growth in communities like Broken Arrow.

Empire Laser and Metal Work among recipients

One of the recipients is Empire Laser and Metal Work. The company is using its share of the funding to purchase new equipment, which will allow it to take on more complex projects and increase hiring.

“We love bringing in young people, teaching them a trade and giving them skills,” said Dillon Etter, manager at Empire. “Some of our employees have been with us over 10 years. We give them those skills, they help our business grow, and it’s just a win-win for the community and for everyone.”

Investment in local workforce

Etter says the funding directly supports workforce development by allowing the company to train more employees and expand operations.

The impact goes beyond an individual company like Empire because it also means there's an opportunity for more local jobs and long-term skill-building opportunities for Broken Arrow residents.

Economic growth for the city

The Broken Arrow Economic Development Corporation helped guide businesses like Empire through the application process. Amber Miller, the group’s vice president of economic development, said the program reflects a shared commitment to growing the city’s economy.

“Our city continually invests in Broken Arrow,” Miller said. “They see the importance of economic prosperity and vitality and continue to invest in those placemaking and quality of life assets that attract not only the businesses but the residents to Broken Arrow.”

What’s next for businesses

City leaders say these investments will bring even more growth in the months ahead — boosting both the business sector and the local economy.

The Oklahoma Innovation Expansion Program is offered annually. Local companies interested in applying are encouraged to connect with their economic development office to learn more about eligibility and application steps in the future.