Small Business Grants in Ohio (OH)

Securing a small business grant in Ohio involves exploring various programs offered by state agencies, federal initiatives, and private organizations that are specifically tailored to support businesses within the state. Here’s a detailed guide on where and how to secure these grants:

Ohio Chamber of Commerce Resources
The Ohio Chamber of Commerce lists several grant and loan programs available to Ohio businesses. For instance, the Workplace Wellness Grant Program offered by the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation provides up to $15,000 to employers who want to improve the health and wellness of their workers by starting a new wellness program. There are no matching funds required for this grant.

Ohio Department of Development
The Ohio Department of Development provides various business grants, loans, and tax credits. They have announced that $10 million in loan funding remains available to support minority- and women-owned businesses through programs like the Women’s Business Enterprise Loan Program and the Ohio Micro-Loan Program. These loans are administered by the Minority Business Development Division, and businesses can seek assistance from a Minority Business Assistance Center for help with the application process.

JobsOhio Incentives
JobsOhio offers the Economic Development Grant, which supports projects that promote economic development, business expansion, and job creation. Eligibility for this grant is based on factors such as job creation, additional payroll, fixed-asset investment commitment, and project location. The grant covers various costs, including land, building, machinery, and infrastructure investment.

Ohio Industry Sector Partnership Grant
The Ohio Industry Sector Partnership Grant supports collaboration between businesses, education and training providers, and community leaders to improve the region’s workforce. To be eligible, partnerships must include multiple private-sector employers and focus on common workforce-related goals.

Federal and Private Grants
The USDA Food Supply Chain Guaranteed Loan Program guarantees loans of up to $40 million for qualified lenders to finance food systems, which is part of the Build Back Better initiative. Additionally, the Amber Grant provides $10,000 monthly to women-owned businesses for various business needs.

GrantWatch and Other Online Resources
GrantWatch lists small business grants in Ohio, including grants for workforce development projects and safety-related expenses for specialty crop businesses. It is advisable to check regularly for updates on available grants and their application deadlines.

Ohio Small Business Development Centers
The Ohio Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers resources such as cash flow analysis, export assistance, market feasibility research, and one-on-one business counseling. They can guide small business owners through the process of finding and applying for grants.

Ohio State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)
The SSBCI provides funds to support loans to Ohio entrepreneurs for various purposes, including research and development and real estate transactions. This initiative includes programs like the Ohio Venture Fund and the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Loan Participation Program.

Local Government Economic Development Programs
Local government applicants in Ohio can receive funds for economic development loan and public infrastructure projects. These funds are granted for activities related to job creation and retention, and can include job training as an eligible activity.

To apply for these grants, businesses should reach out to the relevant agencies or visit their websites for more information on eligibility criteria, application processes, and deadlines. It is crucial to have a well-developed business plan and to demonstrate the potential for job creation and economic impact in Ohio. Additionally, businesses should consider contacting local Small Business Development Centers or Minority Business Assistance Centers for guidance and support throughout the application process.