COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Development announced Friday that its Ohio Small Business Development Centers program has reached a key milestone, assisting 60,000 entrepreneurs, supporting the growth of 16,950 jobs and securing $1.3 billion in capital since 2019.
This represents the department’s highest level of small business engagement under any administration in the program’s 40-year history, a news release states.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Ohio’s economy, and our Small Business Development Centers help ensure entrepreneurs have the support they need to succeed,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development. “By connecting business owners with expert guidance, strategic resources and trusted local partners, we’re helping more Ohioans launch companies, expand operations, create jobs and strengthen communities across our state.”
The success of the program relies on a partnership between the Ohio Department of Development as the state host and the U.S. Small Business Administration. This framework aligns federal and state resources to address key economic priorities across Ohio.
Services are delivered through more than 20 host organizations, including Youngstown State University and other educational institutions and economic development organizations. By embedding SBDC Certified Business Advisors within these established community partners, the program ensures that small businesses in all 88 Ohio counties have direct access to expert business assistance.
“Seeing the impact the SBDC has on small business success in Ohio is so rewarding, especially when they return for additional assistance for expanded growth plans,” said Miranda Hoffman, center director and certified business adviser at Terra State Community College. “The SBDC’s trusted relationship with local lenders and access to industry resources helps facilitate a reliable financing package that meets both the client and lenders’ expectations.”
Small businesses can learn more about the program, see upcoming training programs and register for services on the SBDC website.