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Recognizing the vital role entrepreneurs play in Ohio's economy, the Entrepreneurship and Small Business Division works in partnership with a broad network of public and private partners accross the state to provide the information, assistance, and advocacy that facilitates small business growth and development. The Division supports Ohio small businesses (up to 500 employees) by creating opportunities for them to expand financial literacy and access the capital, entrepreneurial skills, and coaching they need to succeed.

Initiatives such as the Ohio Lender Participation Program links Ohio's small business communities to Ohio's financial service industry. The Annual Business Matchmaker event brings buyers and sellers together to facilitate contract procurement opportunities from the internet, as well as face-to-face encounters.

The Entrepreneurship and Small Business Division is home to the Small Business Development Centers of Ohio, the state’s premier technical and management assistance program for small business owners supported through the U.S. Small Business Administration. In 2008, the network of 37 centers accross the state served more than 9,158 clients.

The 1st Stop Business Connection is designed to offer Ohio’s entrepreneurs one resource for all state and federal registration requirements to start a new business. The Division also oversees the Business Incubator Initiative which collects information regarding the impact of incubators on small business development in Ohio.

Specialized workshops and roundtables targeting specific populations, including women and senior citizens, are presented throughout the year catering to small business owners' unique backgrounds. A Directory of Ohio Women-Owned Businesses to provide Ohio based women-owned companies the opportunity to do business with other women and assist corporations who want to do business with women entrepreneurs.

Ohio’s small businesses require high-quality, flexible tools that support their entrepreneurial endeavors. The Entrepreneurship and Small Business Division is the link to those tools and is working every day to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship throughout the state. 

BUSINESS SCAMS!
Please Beware!

 “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is!” We have received reports of several programs that may be scams. If you are searching for grants and an agency offers to find grants for you – DO NOT PAY anything in advance. 
Research such offers through: 
www.RipoffReport.com
www.800notes.com
www.bbb.org