Grow Hays
Grow Hays Inc., a nonprofit organization aimed at advancing the economic health and vitality of Ellis County, has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Patterson Family Foundation. These funds will go toward the building of the Grow Hays MicroFactory, which will be breaking ground this October in the Heart of America Development on Commerce Parkway.
“In essence, the microfactory is an incubator for manufacturing companies. It will be a 30,000-square-foot structure divided into four to six areas," said Grow Hays Executive Director Doug Williams." Once complete, it will house small manufacturers that have an idea or a product they're trying to bring to the market. Space will be offered at a reduced rental rate to help tenants maximize their growth potential.”
The Patterson Family Foundation is a family-led foundation extending the legacy of Neal and Jeanne Patterson. The foundation strives to help lift rural communities through health care, education, economic opportunity and beyond.
“On behalf of the Patterson Family Foundation, I am pleased to award this funding for the Grow Hays Microfactory,” said Adam Erickson, program officer for the Patterson Family Foundation. “ The Patterson Family Foundation looks forward to seeing how the microfactory concept will drive progress and future growth.”
“We are very grateful for the Patterson Family Foundations' financial support. We see the microfactory as a unique resource where small manufacturers can grow their businesses," Williams said.