Development Celebrates “National Small Business Week” by Highlighting Ohio’s Entrepreneurial Successes

The Ohio Department of Development is celebrating National Small Business Week by highlighting the success of Ohio's entrepreneurs, Small Business Development Centers, and Minority Business Assistance Centers in communities across the state. National Small Business Week is recognized from April 28 through May 4.

"National Small Business Week is the perfect opportunity to acknowledge the impact that thousands of Ohio small businesses have on our state's growing economy," said Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Ohio Department of Development. "The Department of Development, through our extensive network of Small Business Development Centers and Minority Business Assistance Centers, is committed to empowering entrepreneurs to achieve their dreams of success."

Ohio has more than 90,000 small business retailers, according to new data published by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Development recognizes the positive economic impact of these businesses and encourages Ohioans to support their local restaurants, boutiques, venues, products, and services.

Development supports Ohio's small business owners and entrepreneurs through business assistance centers that provide services free of charge. In the last two years, Ohio SBDCs have served over 23,000 clients, provided 128,000 hours of business counseling, and helped clients access more than $153 billion in capital.

Haltec Corporationin Leetonia recently received counseling services from the company's local SBDC. The company manufactures tire valves.

"For several years, Haltec Corporation has benefited greatly from collaborating with the SBDC Export Assistance Network," said Adam Smith, Haltec Director of Strategic Marketing. "This partnership has been instrumental in propelling Haltec's global expansion.SBDC's resources have provided invaluable guidance and support, helping Haltec navigate the complexities of international trade regulations and optimize its export strategies."

The company utilized services and programs provided by the Department of Development, including the International Market Access Grant for Exporters (IMAGE)program, to expand its marketing efforts globally, including international trade shows in Asia, Europe, and South America. The company was also matched with interns through the Ohio Export Internship program.

The Department of Development also assists minority, women, veteran-owned businesses, and disadvantaged business owners through its Minority Business Development Division.

Cincinnati-based Skin by Brownlee and Co.is one of many minority businesses that benefited from the department's small business resources. The Black woman-owned skin care clinic provides a full line of products that prevent and treat acne and hyperpigmentation.

The business received a Women Business Enterprise loan, which helped fund a new building in Hamilton County.

"Being a recipient of a WBE loan has empowered me as a female entrepreneur, giving me the resources and confidence to pursue my business goals and make a positive impact in the skincare industry, said Sylvia Brownlee, founder of Skin by Brownlee Co.

There are more than 4,500 state-level certified businesses. More than $21 million in loans have been approved to support more than 252 minority- and women-owned businesses.

More information on resources to support small businesses can be found on Development's website.

The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio's people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.

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