CLEVELAND, Ohio – Mark Lamoncha, president and CEO of Humtown Products, has been named the SBA Ohio Small Business Person of the Year.

“Mark exemplifies the spirit of innovation – transforming his family’s legacy for the 21st century by leveraging SBA resources and building a foundation that will endure for generations to come,” said Terry Bolden, district director.

Humtown Products was founded in Columbiana, Ohio, by Russell Lamoncha in 1959 and has evolved from a local pattern making shop into North America’s leading 3D sand core and mold producer. When Lamoncha took over leadership of the company from his father more than 40 years ago, he embraced technology and leveraged all SBA resources – counseling, funding, contracting and exporting assistance – a news release states.

“I’m honored to receive the Small Business Person of the Year award,” Lamoncha said. “This recognition is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our entire team, and the support we’ve received from the SBA, partners and community. Together, we’re building a stronger, more resilient business and region.” 

Lamoncha is currently competing to win SBA’s Small Business Person of the Year national title, which will be announced by SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler during ceremonies in Washington, D.C., on May 4.

“During National Small Business Week, SBA is honored to recognize the job creators, builders and innovators who fuel our nation’s economy and anchor communities across America,” Loeffler said.

Another Mahoning Valley company also received an SBA National Small Business Week award. Mr. PC Inc. of Warren was named the Ohio Rural Small Business of the Year.

The other award winners are:

  • Great Lakes Regional & Ohio Exporter of the Year: DRR USA.
  • Ohio Veteran-Owned Small Business of the Year: Liberty RC LLC.
  • Ohio Small Business Development Center Excellence and Innovation Award: Ohio SBDC at Springfield.
  • Great Lakes Regional & Ohio Women’s Business Center of Excellence Award: ECDI Women’s Business Center of Northern Ohio.

The SBA has celebrated National Small Business Week for more than 60 years, acknowledging the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners to the nation’s economy. This year, events across the country are amplifying small business success and connecting entrepreneurs with resources, training and opportunities to start, grow and succeed in achieving their dream of small business ownership, the release states.