Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA) is proud to announce that its 39,000-square-foot spec building, known as “Duke,” has been leased to World Weidner, a leading retailer in the sewing, embroidery, quilting, and vinyl industries. The company took possession of the building this month and is currently planning internal systems and furnishing the space in preparation for relocation. This milestone reflects PCDA’s commitment to supporting local business growth through strategic development initiatives.

World Weidner, founded by Oliver Weidner in 2005 in Blackwell, Oklahoma, relocated to Ponca City in 2009. After operating on Grand Avenue and later moving to Knight Street, west of Lowe’s, the company continued to experience significant growth. On April 10, the World Weidner team toured their new facility for the first time, expressing enthusiasm for the expanded space. The company, which currently employs 26 staff members, has outgrown its previous location, utilizing shipping containers for additional storage. The new 39,000-square-foot facility will provide ample space to accommodate current operations and future expansion.

As the number one Brother dealer in the United States and the top Singer dealer worldwide, World Weidner is poised for substantial growth. “This move marks the beginning of significant further expansion for us,” said Oliver Weidner. “We anticipate doubling both our business and our staff in the coming years.”

The lease of “Duke” underscores the success of PCDA’s spec building program, designed to provide move-in-ready facilities that enable local businesses to scale quickly. This program has been instrumental in attracting and retaining businesses in Ponca City. "The leasing of the Duke building to World Weidner exemplifies our mission to provide infrastructure that meets the needs of our local businesses,” said Lori Henderson, Executive Director of PCDA. “By constructing four spec buildings to date, PCDA has created opportunities for companies to establish and expand their operations in Ponca City.”

To learn more about World Weidner’s products and industry leadership, visit their website at www.worldweidner.com. PCDA congratulates Oliver and his team (pictured above in their new BIGGER building) on this exciting new chapter and looks forward to supporting World Weidner’s continued success in their new home.

The PCDA Trustees approved the Childcare Certification Assistance Program (CCAP) for Ponca City Childcares at the April 10th, 2025  PCDA Board of Trustees Regular Meeting.  This certification program will support Ponca City childcare facilities and homes as they pursue new state mandates for national certifications necessary to retain their State of Oklahoma Department of Human Services d(OKDHS) ratings.  Programs that are accredited by a national accrediting body approved by OKDHS can receive a higher state Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS).  These national accreditation certifications were made mandatory by Governor Stitts' Emergency Order signed in March, 2025. 

This program is currently only for childcare facilities & homes that are located in Ponca City or receive utilities from the City of Ponca City.  For those facilities and homes in Kay County, PCDA continues to collaborate with other organizations to try to provide funding support for them to defray the national certification fee costs.    The CCAP will provide national certification fee assistance up to $2,000 for qualifying Ponca CIty childcare facilities. 

PCDA has $10,000 allotted for this program through June, 2025.    There will be another allocation for this program in the PCDA Budget for 2025-2026 depending on need and feedback from Ponca City childcare facilities and homes.   Ponca City childcares are encouraged to submit applications as they are able to pursue these national certifications.   This link for the application is: 
https://www.cognitoforms.com/PCDA1/ChildcareCertificationAssistanceProgramApplication.

Lori Henderson, PCDA Executive Director stated "This is a great opportunity for PCDA to support this in demand industry after years of discussion.  Childcare is one of PCDA's areas of economic focus; right there will retail, entertainment and business retention and recruitment, " she continued. "The CCAP is based on the PCDA award winning  Industry Certification Accreditation Program (ICAP). 

Requirements for the CCAP funding acceptance:

• Certification fee receipt for reimbursement:  reimbursement up to $2,000 only for certification costs; must be documented as such.
• Fill out online application completely.
• Application and other documentation will be presented for approval at the next PCDA board meeting and you will be notified of your application being on the agenda for approval.  
• Funds for this program will be made by check to the Childcare Facility or Home and be available the week following the board meeting. 

Lori Henderson, PCDA Executive Director stated "This is a great opportunity for PCDA to support this in demand industry after years of discussion.  Childcare is one of PCDA's areas of economic focus; right there will retail, entertainment and business retention and recruitment, " she continued. "The CCAP is based on the PCDA award winning  Industry Certification Accreditation Program (ICAP). 
If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to email [email protected] or call the PCDA office at 580.765.7070.   

 The Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA) Business Plan Competition Pitch off has been pushed back to September 10, 2025.  This annual (and sometimes bi-annual) competition must have at least three companies to pull the competition trigger.  Though there are several Ponca City small businesses and start-ups in the business plan writing process, none are ready to hand over their final copies by April 22nd, the original date for business plans to be submitted. 

"This is the eighth year for the Business Plan Competition Pitch-off," said Kat Long, Small Business Coordinator at PCDA.  "PCDA and Pioneer Technology Business & Industry Services began the Pitch-off competition in 2017.  One of those first participants was Vortex Alley Brewing.  They didn't receive the incentives package that year, but they definitely got their money's worth out of that business plan."

The 2025 Pitch-off incentive package for the high scorer is $4000.00 in cash to the business, $1000 for equipment, $1000 for advertising/marketing, a Ponca City Chamber of Commerce membership and rent/building support for a year.  Plus all of the participants receive coaching and support from PCDA, Pioneer Technology Business & Industry and The Small Business Development Center (SBDC).  See the small business roadmap here and read all the rules and regs for your business to participate in the Business Plan Competition here.

For more information, call the PCDA office at 580.765.7070 or email [email protected].  

OKLAHOMA INNOVATION & EXPANION PROGRAM (OEIP)
 
Monthly Cash Payments to help Oklahoma companies:

• Lower the cost of a capital project
• Increase the size/capacity of a planned expansion
• Enhance the ability to finance a project
• Improve employee retention and recruitment
• Create new capabilities, revenues & new jobs

 
ELIGIBILITY

• Minimum $50,000 capital investment in facility located in Oklahoma
• Minimum payroll of at least $625,000 per year
• Must be a “for-profit” business entity (preference to Manufacturing and Industrial businesses)
• Projects must be innovative, shorten or strengthen the supply chain for the product being manufactured, or it must be a project designed to target new markets
• No double dipping in Oklahoma Quality Jobs Act Programs or Investment Tax Credits while in the program
• No funds spent toward the new project prior to receiving an award letter from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce
• Businesses selected for participation must spend at least 10% of the project budget by September 30th
• Only projects where the net benefit rate of the project is sufficient to sustain a $25,000 award or greater can participate
• Business must meet all eligibility requirements and follow all program rules as set forth in the OIEP Rules www.okcommerce.gov/oiep

 
Online applications open March 31 – April 11 at https://www.okcommerce.gov/oiep/
​

     Intern Joseph Lewis enjoys spending time in the Maker Space at PoHi’s Phillips 66 STEM building. Guided by STEM director Alicia Smith, he spends his internship creating, problem-solving, and “figuring things out.”

​     When asked if he ever gets frustrated, Joseph couldn’t think of an instance—despite troubleshooting a 3D printer issue while sitting on the floor. Diagnosis? Not yet. Plan? He and Ms. Smith would work one out, even if it meant taking the printer apart. Many would find this frustrating, but not Joseph.

     “I have zero complaints. It’s perfect. I spend hours doing projects that help the school without worrying about extra homework. What could be better?”

     In his second and final year with the Wildcat Internship Program, Joseph knows the Maker Space well. He can give you a tour, explain 3D modeling software, and showcase laser-cut and 3D-printed creations, like a small boat with an outboard engine. One of his biggest projects was laser cutting QR codes for photos of Ponca City’s Hall of Fame Alumni, linking each to a digital biography—a creative way to honor their legacies while learning advanced STEM skills.

     Mid-tour, Joseph recalls a frustrating moment involving printer settings, filaments, and “tk, tk, tk” sounds. “It was on the lowest setting when I should’ve turned it up—basically my fault,” he laughs. “That was a little annoying.”
​
     For a student who started with no experience, Joseph’s internship has offered countless opportunities to learn valuable STEM skills and master the art of “figuring things out”—an essential trait for today’s workforce.

Every dollar spent in Ponca City is an investment in our community. When you shop at a local store, eat at a Ponca City restaurant, or hire a local service provider, you’re not just making a purchase—you’re fueling the local economy.
Studies show that dollars spent locally circulate multiple times, creating a ripple effect of economic benefits. Local businesses hire Ponca City residents, pay local taxes, and support community events. Those dollars then go toward city services, schools, and infrastructure, making Ponca City a better place to live and work.
Compare that to shopping online or out of town—those dollars leave our community and don’t come back. By choosing local first, we ensure that our economy remains strong and that businesses continue to grow, create jobs, and reinvest in Ponca City.
At PCDA, we work to support local businesses and attract new opportunities, but the real power lies with you—the consumer. Next time you need a gift, a meal, or a service, think local. It’s not just about convenience; it’s about strengthening the community we all call home.
Let’s keep Ponca City thriving—one purchase at a time!

Children’s Therapy Zone provides interns with hands-on experience in pediatric occupational therapy, allowing them to work in diverse settings that help patients engage in everyday activities essential to their health, well-being, and quality of life.

​Wildcat Interns Ava MacKinnon and Alyssa Cannon, both aspiring occupational therapists, are gaining valuable insights into the field. Under the mentorship of Jessica Helm at Children’s Therapy Zone, they are learning how physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and sensory factors influence children’s development.
“I love Children’s Therapy Zone!” said Alyssa. “I get to be hands-on and am learning so much. I’ve chosen activities, helped run patient sessions, and had in-depth discussions with Jessica about treatment strategies.”
Alyssa also credits her internship with shaping her future. “Jessica even helped me explore OT college programs. Interning at the clinic has reaffirmed my passion for becoming a pediatric occupational therapist!”
Ava, a junior beginning her second semester as an intern, recently broadened her experience by shadowing in rural schools, where she observed therapy in a more dynamic setting. Ava explained how distractions in schools affect how a child responds compared to the quiet clinic setting. Seeing therapy in action in different spaces helped her understand how environment impacts behavior and learning. “Being able to go with Jessica into the schools was an amazing experience,” she said. “I was able to use my skills to the fullest, while watching and learning from Jessica.”
Through hands-on experience and expert mentorship, Ava and Alyssa are gaining the skills and confidence to pursue their dreams in pediatric occupational therapy. These Wildcat Interns are already well on their way to making a meaningful difference in the lives of future patients.
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Photo (left to right): Alyssa Cannon, Jessica Helm and Ava McKinnon.


“I love working alongside and developing high school students to become our future leaders. ” ~ Jessica Helm, Owner and Occupational Therapist, Children’s Therapy Zone

Ponca City Development Authority & Ponca City Public Schools Partner for Internship & Career Fair on March 27th
The Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA) and Ponca City Public Schools (PCPS) are proud to announce the upcoming Internship & Career Fair, taking place on March 27th from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM in the East Gym at Ponca City High School. This event is designed to connect 10th-12th grade students with real-world career opportunities, providing valuable pathways for internships and entry-level positions that will shape the future workforce of Ponca City.
As part of the award-winning Wildcat Internship Program, this initiative represents a strong collaboration between local businesses, community leaders, and educators to give students hands-on learning experiences that go beyond the classroom. Over the past year, this program has provided more than 150 students with internships and career exposure through partnerships with over 70 local businesses and organizations. These experiences not only prepare students for success but also strengthen community bonds by encouraging local talent to stay, grow, and thrive in Ponca City.
In today’s competitive job market, classroom education alone is not enough to fully prepare students for the challenges of the workforce. Experiential learning—through internships, mentorships, and industry engagement—plays a crucial role in shaping students into confident, skilled professionals. The Internship & Career Fair allows students to explore career fields firsthand, develop meaningful connections with industry professionals, and gain insights into local opportunities they may not have previously considered.
This early exposure to careers helps students align their education with their future aspirations, making learning more relevant, engaging, and goal-oriented. For seniors, the fair presents a valuable chance to secure entry-level positions in industries that need fresh talent, while juniors and sophomores can explore potential internship placements that will give them a head start on their career journeys.
A thriving community is built on the strength of its workforce, and Ponca City is investing in its future by cultivating a pipeline of well-prepared, engaged, and motivated young professionals. By fostering strong partnerships between schools and local businesses, PCDA and PCPS are helping to ensure that Ponca City students see a future for themselves right here at home.
“Opportunities like this are key to building a strong local workforce,” said Liz Leaming, Ponca City Development Authority. “By connecting students with real career experiences, we’re not only preparing them for success—we’re also investing in Ponca City’s long-term economic growth. When students feel engaged with their community and see the value in staying local, we all benefit.”
Local businesses participating in the fair will have the opportunity to engage with the next generation of employees, share industry insights, and identify talented individuals who could become part of their future workforce. This connection between students and local employers reinforces the importance of giving back, fostering mentorships, and ensuring that Ponca City remains a place where young professionals can build meaningful, fulfilling careers.
Whether you’re a student looking for an internship, a senior ready to launch your career, or a business eager to meet motivated young talent, this event is a must-attend opportunity.
What: Internship & Career Fair When: March 27, 2025, from 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM Where: Ponca City High School, East Gym Who: 10th-12th grade students & local businesses To sign up and learn more, visit www.goponca.com/workforce.

Elizabeth Coffman, an intern at A+ Printing, has already made a big impact with her work, according to CEO Paige Winslow (pictured above). “She’s knocked it out of the park with some of her designs,” said Winslow. “She is such a talented artist. We handed over our social media marketing to her, and now she’s learning how to market products effectively.”
In addition to creating ads for the company’s social media accounts, Elizabeth has designed business cards, a newsletter for a marketing project, and a customer order pad that a client “just loved.”
Chad and Paige Winslow, owners of A+ Printing and Oklahoma Labels, noted that their shared production facility offers Elizabeth unique opportunities. She’s able to collaborate with different employees and designers, learning to use various software programs and machines for a wide range of projects. Soon, Elizabeth will work with their lead designer on building a new website, and she’ll also get hands-on experience designing labels and operating the label press machine.
Elizabeth is thrilled with the opportunity to be creative every day while learning new design software. Her only regret? Not starting her internship at A+ Printing earlier during her time at PoHi. Fortunately, Paige has been a strong mentor, offering Elizabeth advice and connecting her with resources at Pioneer Tech and NOC to help guide her next steps after graduation in May. For Elizabeth, the internship at A+ Printing has proven to be a perfect match, blending her passion for art and design with invaluable real-world experience.  See some of Elizabeth's designs for Oklahoma Labels and PoncaAPlus below.