Development sets record level of small business engagement
COLUMBUS – The Ohio Department of Development today announced that its Ohio Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) 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 Development’s highest level of small business engagement under any administration in the program’s 40-year history.
“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.
Locally, services are delivered through more than 20 host organizations, including 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 advisor 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.”
Business owners Lonnie and Tammie Bullis received financial counseling from their local SBDC and were able to transform Rum Runners Cove Inn and Bay Harbor Marina into the only Sandusky Bay spot where boats and jet skis can dock and dine, doubling visitation each year and becoming a true destination for visitors by land and water.
“The SBDC didn’t just provide documents — they helped us evaluate feasibility, structure the purchase, and present a fundable plan to our lender,” said Lonnie Bullis. “Their support made the difference in turning our vision into a sustainable business that benefits our community and the region.”
Small businesses can learn more about the program, see upcoming training programs, and register for services on the SBDC 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.
Funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. The Ohio SBDC program is also funded in part by the Ohio Department of Development. Reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. For arrangements, email the Ohio SBDC at sbdcreports@development.ohio.gov
The SBDC program is supported by federal funding. Full disclosures available at https://clients.ohiosbdc.ohio.gov
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.