Accelerate Columbus
Supporting and promoting the growth of local businesses.
Accelerate Columbus is a comprehensive initiative that brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders to create an environment that fosters innovation and growth. The program provides a variety of resources, including mentoring, networking opportunities, access to capital, and other critical support services to help local businesses reach their full potential.
Accelerate Columbus is a joint initiative of the City of Columbus, the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, and six additional Entrepreneur Support Organizations to facilitate various activities in direct relation to the needs of each small business that applies.
Cultivate US
Cultivate US, a New and Emerging Citizen’s Business Connection Program is in collaboration with the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and the Office of Diversity Equity & Inclusion. This program supports Franklin County Businesses within the New and Emerging Citizens communities, knowing their growth is substantial to the Columbus Region’s economic development. Cultivate US will support 120 small businesses, with a focus on four key components including workforce development, business navigation, supplier connections, and support services. Program participants will be allowed to connect with a Program Navigator to further navigate obstacles and available resources within the Region.
Apply Today:
Businesses interested in participating in the program are encouraged to contact cultivateus@columbus.org.
Chamber AfterHours Networking
January 16, 2025 @ 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Participate in Chamber AfterHours to network with other Chamber members. Chamber AfterHours receptions are a perfect way to make connections in a casual and relaxing atmosphere.
Networking Agenda
1 Drink Ticket
5:00 – 7:00 pm
Appetizers
New overtime rule impacting small businesses: Pay thresholds changing in 2024
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) recently announced a new final rule revising and updating the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The final rule raises the minimum salary for most workers exempt from overtime pay, altering how and when businesses must compensate employees for working overtime. Previously, salaried workers in certain executive, administrative, and professional roles earning less than $35,568 annually were generally exempt from overtime pay. Starting Starting24, businesses must provide overtime pay to salaried workers who earn less than $43,888 a year. This threshold will further increase to $58,656 on January 1, 2025.
Who we are
Fueling your journey, every step of the way
Venturize.org is a free bilingual resource hub for small business owners like you who need help accessing tools and information to sustain and grow your business. Venturize offers unbiased education and resources to help bolster businesses and empower you to make informed financing decisions.
Venturize is not a lender— but a platform from a nonprofit organization
Small Business, Big Impact – An overview of SBA’s new Investing in America Small Business Hub and how you can benefit
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has launched a Small Business Resource Hub to help small business owners connect to federal, state, and local grants, contracts, and other funding opportunities available as President Biden’s Investing in America laws. From energy investments to federal and state contracting and subcontracting opportunities, the resource hub provides industry-specific tools that can help your small business grow and thrive. Join Small Business Majority and members of the SBA team for an informational webinar to learn more about the Small Business Hub and how your small business can take advantage of its resources and tools. Be on the lookout for future events in this series to dive deeper into each resource and make the most of the opportunities it has to offer.
Small Business, Big Impact – What “Made in America” means for your small business
Small businesses play a critical role in the recent resurgence in U.S. manufacturing. The federal government has supported this with “Made in America” policies that are reshoring critical industries, strengthening major supply chains, and rebuilding America’s industrial base. Join Small Business Majority and the SBA to learn about opportunities available to small manufacturers and other businesses in critical industries as part of Investing in America laws—including the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act. This webinar will include a walk-through of online federal and state resources within the SBA’s new Small Business Resource Hub.
Small Business, Big Impact – The second anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act – Clean energy and energy efficiency incentives for small business
August marks the second anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act, which continues to provide cost-saving opportunities for small businesses through clean energy tax credits and rebates. Whether your small business facilitates energy upgrades (e.g. contractors, home repair businesses) or your business has a physical space that could benefit from clean energy improvements, SBA’s Investing in America Small Business Hub contains information and resources on rebates and tax credits that will help reduce the costs of clean energy and energy efficiency projects for your customers and help you grow your revenue.
Join Small Business Majority and the SBA for an overview of how your small business can take advantage of the home and business clean energy and energy efficiency tax credits and rebates made available through the Inflation Reduction Act.
Small Business, Big Impact – Contracting and sub-contracting to rebuild our infrastructure
Federal and state contracting and subcontracting opportunities are critical pathways for small businesses looking to expand their operations and tap into new markets. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law represents a significant investment in our country’s built environment and provides many new contracting and subcontracting opportunities for small firms across the country. Join Small Business Majority and the SBA for an overview of how small businesses can access federal contracts as well as SBA certifications and other resources that can better position them to win contracts.
Small Business, Big Impact – Investing in Rural America
Rural small businesses face unique barriers in their efforts to start and grow – from a lack of access and awareness to capital and resources to struggles maintaining a qualified workforce. To bridge this divide and connect rural small businesses to federal resources and funding opportunities, Investing in America provides dedicated grants, financing, counseling, and other opportunities to help rural businesses grow and thrive. To learn more about these resources, join Small Business Majority and the SBA for an overview of the resources available for rural small businesses through the new Investing in America: Small Business Hub.
Small Business, Big Impact – Navigating federal government resources for small business
Through its suite of lending and technical assistance programs, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has helped millions of small businesses access the capital and resources needed to thrive and grow. As the SBA continues to make critical improvements and updates to its programs to better serve small businesses nationwide, join Small Business Majority and the SBA for an informational webinar on the Administration’s full suite of resources for small businesses, including capital, certifications, and counseling, as well as similar resources across other federal agencies. The presentation will be followed by an opportunity for small business owners to learn more about these programs from leading SBA officials across several of their programs.
Watch More On-Demand Webinars in the series
Cost: Free for all SBM webinars
Loans, Grants, and Other Funding Options for Women-Owned Businesses
RECORDED WEBINAR (ONLINE)
More than 12 million U.S. women-owned businesses generate $2.1 trillion in revenue annually, with female founders representing 22.4 percent of small business owners. Women entrepreneurs can use a variety of resources to fuel their growth.
Check out resources created especially for women business owners.
SMALL BUSINESS SUCCESS STARTS WITH SCORE MENTORSHIP
Highlighting the support that fuels these successes, Juanny Romero of Mothership Coffee Roasters shares her experience: “With more than 15 years of mentorship from SCORE, our business has flourished thanks to their invaluable insights and support.” This testament illustrates how SCORE’s free, confidential business advice and specialized resources for women entrepreneurs can catalyze growth and innovation, empowering more women to lead and excel in their ventures.
Free Business Mentoring in the Greater Central Ohio area
We provide free and confidential one-on-one business counseling by phone, email, and in person in Columbus OH. We also conduct workshops for both start-up entrepreneurs and seasoned small business owners
FINANCE
Everybody is an Investor
The Nation’s first Democratic Investment Fund
The Ujima Fund is a democratic investment vehicle raising capital to finance small businesses, real estate, and infrastructure projects in Boston’s working-class Black, Indigenous, and other communities of color, as part of the larger Boston Ujima Project. Ujima, named after the Swahili word for collective work and responsibility, uses a participatory budgeting process in combination with traditional underwriting to put economic development decisions in the hands of community members.
Current Events
How To Start A Business Using A Free SCORE Mentor Webinar
Date: Tuesday, January 7, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM (GMT-05:00) Eastern Time
About the event
Starting a small business can be challenging, especially if you lack business experience. At SCORE, we provide free expert mentors dedicated to helping you ignite your passion, overcome obstacles, and achieve your dream of small business ownership.
In this webinar, you’ll hear real success stories from SCORE clients as well as the SCORE mentors who helped them.
You’ll learn about:
How SCORE mentorship works and how having a SCORE mentor on your side sets your new business up for success
How a SCORE mentor can help you start and grow your business
How to find the right mentor for your business using SCORE’s extensive, nationwide network of business experts
Duration: 1 Hour
Language: English
Cost: Free
For Small Businesses: Grow Your Sales Through Trade
Learn how to grow your small business through international sales!
Thursday, January 23, 2025 · 2 – 3 pm EST
Location: Online
About this event
The event lasts 1 hour
Are you a small business looking to expand?
Did you know that the best way to boost your bottom line is to look outside of our US borders? Selling internationally can help protect your bottom line from the ebbs and flows of one domestic market while granting you access to more buyers. Learn about access to markets, access to grants, and access to capital to help your business enter the global marketplace!
Join experts from the U.S Small Business Administration’s Office of International Trade to hear how you can:
protect your foreign receivables
access export resources
find international buyers
obtain financing
protect your foreign receivables
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Are you the next Small Business Person of the Year? SBA is currently accepting nominations for the National Small Business Week awards. For over 60 years, National Small Business Week has recognized the outstanding achievements of America’s small businesses for their contributions to their local communities, and to our nation’s economy. Submit your nomination today.
Business Resilience Guide
Recent hurricanes, wildfires, and other disasters underscore the importance of preparedness. National Preparedness Month is a good reminder to make sure you are ready when a disaster strikes. Use SBA’s new Business Resilience Guide to help you prepare in the event of a disaster.
For a small business, being resilient involves understanding risks, planning for them, identifying employee needs and responsibilities, and ensuring back-ups and redundancies are in place. This Guide can help small businesses determine how to anticipate the impacts of a disaster on operations so disruptions can be minimized.
FREE WEBINARS
By Join Marathon
Start-Up Marketing 101
Launch your startup with a proven framework, practical tips, and accessible tools for marketing, advertising, and branding!
Select the date and time
Thursday, January 9, 2025 · 3 – 4 pm EST
Thursday, January 30, 2025 · 3 – 4 pm EST
Thursday, February 20, 2025 · 3 – 4 pm EST
Cost: Free
Location: Online
Everything You Need To Know About Starting And Running Your LLC
Select the date and time
Thursday, January 9, 2025 · 1 – 2 pm EST
OR
Thursday, January 23, 2025 · 9 – 10 pm EST
Location: Online
General Admission: Free
About this event
1 hour
Everything You Need To Know About Starting And Running Your LLC
Discover the essentials of forming and operating an LLC, including the types, benefits, and risks of Single Member and Multi-Member LLCs, and learn when LLC status won’t shield personal assets. This workshop is ideal for those considering starting an LLC, as well as established and start-up LLC businesses seeking compliance and effective management strategies.
What You’ll Learn
Defining an LLC
How is an LLC formed
The LLC setup process
Two main types of LLCs
Common misconceptions
Starting and managing an LLC
Corporations vs LLCs
Advantages of an LLC
Drawbacks of an LLC
Should your business be an LLC
Questions?
Website: mytechacademy.net
Email: info@mytechacademy.net
Instagram: @mytechacademy.ai
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-tech-academy
Did you know the SEC has a Small Business Advocacy Office?
Check out the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)’s Roadmap to Funding a Small Business and explore other resources available on their Capital Raising Hub to help equip small businesses and their investors with the tools needed to navigate capital raising! There is even a glossary that helps cut through the jargon.
USA FUNDING APPLICATIONS
Applications are NOW Available!
Each year billions of dollars are awarded to individuals and businesses in the form of grants and other types of funding. Apply for YOUR piece today!
The Jobs Ohio Inclusion Grant (JOIG)
The Jobs Ohio Inclusion Grant (JOIG) was developed to provide additional financial support for qualified projects in designated distressed communities and/or for businesses owned by underrepresented populations across the state. The program recognizes that distressed communities may benefit from investments and job creation on a smaller scale than communities that experience higher levels of corporate investment regularly.
Additionally, this program recognizes that businesses owned by underrepresented populations may face additional challenges in growing their businesses.
Top Small-Business Grants in Ohio
Ohio entrepreneurs may want to consider grants offered through state, local, and national programs to secure funding for their businesses.
By Lisa Anthony Posted Jan 10, 2024 / Reposted March 29, 2024
Small-business grants provide free money for startups and existing businesses, including those impacted by the coronavirus pandemic or other hardships. Unlike small-business loans, grants offer access to capital that doesn’t need to be repaid.
It takes time and effort to research and apply for funding, but the payoff can be worth it if you secure a grant for your small business. To help you get started, here’s a list of federal, state, and private small-business grants and resources.
Small-business grants may be an enticing option when you’re looking for funding for your Ohio business. However, because the competition is strong and the application process requires time and effort, you’ll want to research grant programs to find the ones that are a good match for your business needs.
Here’s a list of some small-business grants available to Ohio businesses and some additional resources that may be helpful in the grant application process.
Small-Business Grants: Where to Find Free Funding
OHIO BUSINESS RESOURCE CONNECTION
Owning your own business is a significant achievement. Entrepreneurship contributes to innovation and growth in Ohio. To be successful, we want to make sure you have all of the information you need. Our goal is to connect you to valuable resources so that your business can contribute to Ohio’s prospering economy. Resources include business development centers, which can provide business coaching and mentoring networking as well as access to equipment and internet connectivity. Other resources can assist with business certifications, such as the minority business enterprise program which provides contract assistance, loan and bond programs, and access to government contracting opportunities. Below are links to resources that cater to characteristics specific to your business.
Characteristics specific to your business.
Resources for all Ohio Businesses
Starting and Growing Your Business
Small Business Development Centers
The Ohio Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) provide business counseling and assistance to individuals who are either starting or growing their business. Resources include business planning, counseling, training, identifying sources of capital, and market research.
SCORE
SCORE is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow, and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. This organization, supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration, provides business mentoring, access to business tools and templates as well as workshops.
Ohio Business Gateway
The Ohio Business Gateway provides links to resources for starting, growing, and financing an Ohio business as well as resources to manage your business by allowing you to submit tax payments online.
Office of Government Contracting
The Office of Government Contracting (GC), within the U.S. Small Business Administration, works to ensure that small, disadvantaged, and woman-owned businesses have the highest possible participation in federal government contract awards and large prime subcontract awards.
Financing Your Business
Ohio Department of Development Business Grants, Loans, and Tax Credits
The Ohio Department of Development has a variety of bonds, grants, loans, and tax credits that can assist Ohio companies as they grow and create jobs in Ohio.
Ohio Capital Access Program
The Ohio Capital Access Program (OCAP), a program through the Ohio Department of Development, is a loan portfolio insurance program, similar to a loan guarantee, that enables small businesses to obtain credit to help them grow and expand their businesses.
The Collateral Enhancement Program
The Ohio Department of Development’s Collateral Enhancement Program (CEP) is a state program that facilitates increased lending to small- and minority-owned businesses that need access to capital for growth or expansion. The CEP is designed to enable financing that might otherwise be unavailable due to a collateral shortfall. The program supplies pledged cash collateral deposit accounts (or allocations for credit unions and certified development financial institutions) to lending institutions to enhance collateral coverage of individual small business loans.
Ohio Export Assistance and International Engagement
Through the Ohio Department of Development, export assistance information and opportunities are provided to relevant businesses.
U.S. Small Business Administration Funding Programs
The SBA does not directly lend money to small business owners but rather works with lenders to provide loans to small businesses. The SBA has a set of guidelines they administer for loans made by their partners’ lenders, community development organizations, and micro-lending institutions
Grants.Gov
The Grants.gov program management office manages a system that provides a centralized location for grant seekers to find and apply for federal funding opportunities.
Office of Compliance Assistance and Pollution Prevention
The Office of Compliance Assistance and Pollution Prevention provides free and confidential assistance to help Ohio businesses comply with environmental regulations. The organization assists businesses with the goals of preventing pollution, developing and achieving sustainability goals and financing recycling and litter prevention efforts.
DISABILITY OWNED
ENCOURAGING DIVERSITY, GROWTH AND EQUITY
Location: Columbus
The State of Ohio’s Encouraging Diversity, Growth, and Equity (EDGE) program establishes an annual goal for state agencies, boards, and commissions, as well as guidelines for state universities in awarding contracts to certified EDGE businesses. The EDGE program is designed to assist socially and economically disadvantaged businesses in the following areas: construction, architecture, and engineering; professional services; goods and services; and information technology services.
BUSINESS ENTERPRISE PROGRAM
Location: Statewide
The Business Enterprise Program (BEP) enables Ohioans who are legally blind to have entrepreneurial careers in food service management. These opportunities include the management of cafeterias, convenience stores, snack bars, and vending in state, federal, and interstate highway rest areas, where licensed operators have priority under the Randolph Sheppard Act and Ohio Revised Code. The BEP also has businesses at state universities, colleges, and county buildings.
ETHNIC-MINORITY OWNED
MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (MBE) CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
The State of Ohio’s Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) program is designed to assist minority businesses in obtaining state government contracts for goods and services, unlike the Encouraging Diversity, Growth and Equity (EDGE) program, the MBE program does not apply to construction contracts. Applicants must apply for certification through the Ohio Business Gateway.
ENCOURAGING DIVERSITY, GROWTH AND EQUITY (EDGE)
Location: Columbus
Similar to the MBE program, the State of Ohio’s Encouraging Diversity, Growth, and Equity (EDGE) program assists socially and economically disadvantaged businesses in obtaining state government contracts in the areas of construction, architecture, and engineering; professional services; goods and services; and information technology services. A business may qualify for EDGE Certification if its owner is socially and economically disadvantaged or the business is located in a qualified census tract and the owner is economically disadvantaged.
MINORITY BUSINESS ASSISTANCE CENTERS
The Ohio Department of Development’s Minority Business Development Division (MBDD) supports the growth and sustainability of small, minority-owned, and disadvantaged businesses in Ohio. Support provided includes business management counseling, technical and professional assistance, access to capital, surety bonding, and connection to business opportunities through the assistance of the Minority Business Assistance Centers (MBAC).
MINORITY BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIVISION
The Ohio Development of Development Minority Business Development Division (MBDD) supports the growth and sustainability of small, minority, and disadvantaged businesses in Ohio. Support is provided through technical and professional assistance, access to capital and bonding, and connection to business opportunities through the Minority Business Assistance Centers (MBAC). The Division works with entrepreneurs and emerging business enterprises to help them achieve scale and market success.
SBA OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING
The Office of Government Contracting (GC), within the U.S. Small Business Administration, works to ensure that small, disadvantaged, and woman-owned businesses have the highest possible participation in federal government contract awards and large prime subcontract awards.
SBA RESOURCES FOR NATIVE AMERICAN BUSINESSES
The Office of Native American Affairs provides American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians who are looking to create, develop, and expand small businesses with access to the necessary tools. Some of their outreach efforts include tribal consultations, development, and distribution of promotional materials, attendance, and participation in national economic development conferences.
MINORITY BUSINESS BONDING PROGRAM
The Minority Business Bonding Program provides bid, performance, and payment surety bonds to state-certified minority-owned businesses that are unable to obtain bonding through standard surety companies. To be eligible for this program, the project must be economically feasible, and the minority business must not have defaulted on a previous bond issued by the Ohio Department of Development. The maximum bonding line pre-qualification is $1 million per business. The business must demonstrate the benefit to Ohio residents by increasing employment opportunities.
MINORITY BUSINESS DIRECT LOAN PROGRAM
The Minority Business Direct Loan Program provides fixed, low-interest rate loans to certified minority-owned businesses that are purchasing or improving fixed assets resulting in creating new jobs for Ohioans.
COLLATERAL ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM
The Ohio Department of Development’s Collateral Enhancement Program (CEP) is a state program that facilitates increased lending to small and minority-owned businesses that need access to capital for growth or expansion. The CEP is designed to enable financing that might otherwise be unavailable due to a collateral shortfall. The program supplies pledged cash collateral deposit accounts (or allocations for credit unions and certified development financial institutions) to lending institutions to enhance collateral coverage of individual small business loans.
OHIO CAPITAL ACCESS PROGRAM
The Ohio Capital Access Program (OCAP) is a loan portfolio insurance program (similar to a loan guarantee) that enables small businesses to obtain credit to help them grow and expand their businesses. Since 2002, the OCAP has assisted small businesses with their working capital and fixed asset financing needs. In OCAP, when a participating lender originates a loan, the lender and borrower combine to contribute a percentage of the loan (from 3 percent to 6 percent) into a reserve fund, held by the Lender. The Ohio Department of Development also sends a state contribution to the lender-held reserve fund. Each lender’s total OCAP reserve fund is available to cover losses on any loan in the Lender’s OCAP portfolio. OCAP loans are originated and serviced by the Lender. The Ohio Department of Development also uses funds from the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) to make contributions to the reserve fund.
MINORITY BUSINESS ACCELERATOR
Location: Cincinnati The Minority Business Accelerator is a development initiative of the Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce, focused on growing sizable minority firms. The Accelerator team works with minority-owned businesses by helping them identify and connect with local minority suppliers who can meet specific needs for products and services.
MILITARY VETERAN OWNED
VETERAN FRIENDLY BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (VBE) PROGRAM
Location: Statewide
The State of Ohio’s Veteran-Friendly Business Enterprise (VBE) Procurement program provides preference or bonus points to certified companies that compete to contract with the state to supply the goods or services it needs, including eligible construction services. To be eligible for certification, the applicant business must satisfy one of the following criteria: at least ten percent of its employees are veterans or on active service; at least fifty-one percent of the applicant business is owned by veterans or persons on active service; if the applicant business is a corporation fifty-one percent of which is not owned by veterans or persons on active service, at least fifty-one percent of the board of directors are veterans or persons on active service, or the business is certified by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business or a Veteran-Owned Small Business and the owner(s) of the business meets the definition of veteran as defined in Rule 123:5-1-01(II) of the Ohio Administrative Code.
SBA OFFICE OF VETERAN’S BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
The Office of Veterans Business Development (OVBD) seeks to provide and make known all available small business resources and programs for Veterans, Service-Disabled Veterans, Reserve Component Members, and their dependents or survivors. OVBD is the U.S. Small Business Administration’s liaison with the veteran’s business community; providing numerous resources such as training, counseling, and mentorship as well as oversight of Federal procurement programs.
VETERAN ENTREPRENEUR PORTAL
The Veteran Entrepreneur Portal (VEP), a part of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, provides Veterans with access to a host of resources. They provide eligible small business owners with interactive online resources that are pertinent to them. Additionally, VEP identifies financing resources, opportunities for growing a business, and many other resources relevant to the Veteran small business community.
SBA OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING
The Office of Government Contracting (GC), within the U.S. Small Business Administration, works to ensure that small, disadvantaged, and woman-owned businesses have the highest possible participation in federal government contract awards and large prime subcontract awards.
BUNKER LABS
Location: Nationwide (Columbus Chapter)
The mission of Veteran-led Bunker Labs is to support and convene military-connected entrepreneurs and small business owners. They accomplish this mission by facilitating an action-oriented, member-led network of entrepreneurs and small business owners, providing practical tools and resources, and highlighting inspirational stories that showcase the possibilities and accomplishments of the community.
VETERAN BUSINESS OUTREACH CENTER (VBOC)
Location: Flint, MI (Covers MI, OH, and IN) The Veteran Business Outreach Center is an SBA-backed Veteran-led organization that assists Veterans, Active Duty, Guard, and Reserve members with the formation and expansion of their business through training, workshops, mentoring & procurement at both the state and federal level.
VETERANS AND MILITARY BUSINESS OWNERS ASSOCIATION (VAMBOA)
The Veterans and Military Business Owners Association is a non-profit veteran business trade association that promotes and assists Veteran Business Owners, Service Disabled Veteran Owned Businesses, and Military Business Owners. They do so by connecting their members with private corporations and government agencies. They provide networking, collaboration, mentoring, education, certification and advocacy.
VA OFFICE OF SMALL & DISADVANTAGED BUSINESS UTILIZATION (OSBDU)
The mission of the VA Office of Small & Disadvantaged Business Utilization is to enable Veterans to gain access to economic opportunities by developing policies and programs, informed by customer feedback, that improve market research, increase direct access, and maximize the participation of procurement-ready Veteran-Owned Small Businesses and Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses in federal contracting.
NATIONAL VETERAN-OWNED BUSINESS ASSOCIATION (NAVOBA)
The National Veteran-Owned Business Association is an independent nonprofit organization with a mission of creating corporate contracting opportunities for America’s Veteran’s and Service-Disabled Veteran’s Business Enterprises through certification, advocacy, outreach, recognition, and education.
WOMAN OWNED
ENCOURAGING DIVERSITY, GROWTH AND EQUITY
Location: Columbus
The State of Ohio’s Encouraging Diversity, Growth and Equity (EDGE) program establishes an annual goal for state agencies, boards, and commissions, as well as guidelines for state universities in awarding contracts to certified EDGE businesses. The EDGE program is designed to assist socially and economically disadvantaged businesses in the following areas: construction, architecture, and engineering; professional services; goods and services; and information technology services.
The Women’s Business Centers of Ohio (WBC) are located in Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati. As the only SBA-funded Women’s Business Centers in the state, WBC provides a host of resources. Some of these include an online resource library, computer lab, business coaching, and access to small business loans through ECDI.
The Women’s Business Centers of Ohio (WBC) are located in Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati. As the only SBA-funded Women’s Business Centers in the state, WBC provides a host of resources including access to a resource library, business coaching, networking, and access to small business loans.
WOMEN’S BUSINESS ENTERPRISE NATIONAL COUNCIL
The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is the largest certifier of women-owned businesses in the United States. WBENC provides certification, opportunities, resources, and engagement to a business that is at least 51 percent owned, controlled, operated, and managed by a woman or women. Some of these services include education and grants, campaigns to support woman-owned businesses, networking opportunities, and WBENC hosted events.
SBA OFFICE OF WOMEN’S BUSINESS OWNERSHIP
The Office of Women’s Business Ownership (OWBO) seeks to enable and empower women entrepreneurs through advocacy, outreach, education, and support. Through OWBO, women business owners– especially women who are economically or socially disadvantaged– are provided with resources such as comprehensive training and counseling, access to credit and capital, marketing opportunities, and opportunities with federal contracts.
SBA OFFICE OF GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING
The Office of Government Contracting (GC), within the U.S. Small Business Administration, works to ensure that small, disadvantaged, and woman-owned businesses have the highest possible participation in federal government contract awards and large prime subcontract awards.
AVIATRA ACCELERATORS
Location: Cincinnati
Aviatra Accelerators is a 501(c)(3) organization focused on helping women across Ohio start, maintain, and grow their businesses. Aviatra offers a three-phased education approach, designed to fit your business’ needs. Their clients range from first-time entrepreneurs to seasoned business owners looking to expand and grow their enterprises.
Location: Chapters in Columbus and Cleveland
Founded in 1975, the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) serves as a voice of America’s more than 10 million women-owned businesses. NAWBO is the only dues-based organization representing the interests of all women entrepreneurs across all industries. NAWBO provides numerous opportunities, some of which include: providing resources and referrals that aim to expand their reach and promote businesses’ success, access to NAWBO’s user-generated articles library, access to NAWBO’s Membership Directory connecting members to meaningful conversations about entrepreneurship, leadership, important public policy issues, as well as chapter happenings and tips on achieving work-life balance, and other membership tips, tools and benefits.
WOMEN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (WBE) CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
The State of Ohio’s Women Business Enterprise (WBE) program is designed to assist women-owned businesses in obtaining contracts for goods and services, construction, architecture, engineering, information technology, and professional services. Ohio WBE-certified program participants are eligible for contract assistance, management, and technical assistance.
NEW SURVEY
Business Leader’s Opinions on Diversity Initiatives
C-Suite Execs Across the Political Spectrum Reveal in New National Survey that Corporate Diversity Initiatives Critical for Performance and Growth
Protect Your Business
Owning a business means taking risks – and that’s a good thing. But there are some risks you can’t see coming, and they can knock you off course if you don’t prepare for them. Learn how you can protect the business you’ve worked so hard to build.
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Veteran-owned businesses
SBA offers support for veterans as they enter the world of business ownership. Look for funding programs, training, and federal contracting opportunities.
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Office of Veterans Business Development (OVBD)
Devoted exclusively to promoting veteran entrepreneurship, the OVBD facilitates the use of all U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) programs by veterans, service-disabled veterans, reservists, active-duty service members, transitioning service members, and their dependents or survivors.
Devoted exclusively to promoting veteran entrepreneurship, the OVBD facilitates the use of all U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) programs by veterans, service-disabled veterans, reservists, active-duty service members, transitioning service members, and their dependents or survivors.
SBA programs provide access to capital and preparation for small business opportunities. They can also connect veteran small business owners with federal procurement and commercial supply chains.
The Veterans Business Outreach Center Program is an OVBD initiative that oversees Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOC) across the country. This small business program features a number of success stories and offers business plan workshops, concept assessments, mentorship, and training for eligible veterans.
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Grant opportunities and documents
Contact us
All Grants for Ohio
View here all current grant applications for nonprofit grants, for-profit grants, small business grants, individual grants, federal, state, foundation, corporate giving, and local grants available on GrantWatch.com.
Number of Grants: 1566
SBA Equity Initiative
SBA works with a wide variety of businesses across America and the broadway those companies need to access services to get where they need to be.
Equity Action Plan
SBA offers support for each stage of the entrepreneurship journey through products and services. Entrepreneurs of underserved communities can experience barriers to accessing those resources. This Equity Action Plan, in conjunction with Executive Order (EO) 13985 (“Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government”), outlines how SBA will reduce barriers and improve access to the following resources:
Capital Access
Federal Government Procurement and Contracting Opportunities
Disaster Assistance
Business Counseling, Training, and Services
SBA FREE ONLINE LEARNING CENTER
Plan
Research, plan, and document your ideas.
How to Write a Business Plan
22 objectives (41 minutes)
Plan, outline, and develop your business plan.
Legal Requirements
16 objectives (20 minutes)
Review how small business legal requirements can impact your business.
Buying a Business
10 objectives (11 minutes)
Decide if buying a business is right for you.
Young Entrepreneurs
22 objectives (32 minutes)
Understand the basics of creating and financing a successful business.
Office of Entrepreneurial Development
The Office of Entrepreneurial Development’s mission is to help small businesses start, grow, and compete in global markets.
Content
Mission statement
About our office
Leadership
Resources
OED collaborative grantee forms and worksheets
Contact us
Small business resources
HISCOX.COM
About Us
Supporting the courageous since 1901
As experts in risk, we give people and businesses the confidence to realize their ambitions. With roots dating back to 1901, we have the expertise to challenge convention and find a better way.
A 100-year history of protecting businesses
Hiscox USA is a leading specialist insurer with origins dating back to 1901. It is part of the Hiscox Group, which has over 3,000 employees in 14 countries, and customers worldwide.
Celebrate Courage
At Hiscox, we encourage courage. That goes for our customers as well as ourselves and it’s what makes us a champion for small business owners. Read testimonials, listen to podcasts, and watch videos from courageous business owners who have been in your shoes and can inspire you to succeed
Remote working increases cyber risk for small businesses
By Karen Doyle, HIS.COM
The pandemic has changed the way we do business in many ways. One of the most remarkable changes – and one that may become permanent for many businesses – is remote working. While this has been an advantage for many firms that were able to continue to generate revenue even while workers had to stay at home, it’s had its downside too.
Remote work and cyber vulnerability
The drastic increase in remote working due to the pandemic has come hand in hand with an increase in cyber incidents. The Hiscox Cyber Readiness Report 2021 found that the percentage of remote workers at small businesses more than quadrupled – from 14% to 63% – since the pandemic began. At the same time, cyber-attacks are increasing, both in number and in cost. In the past 12 months, small businesses, defined as those with fewer than 250 employees, have averaged five cyber-attacks with an average total cost to the business of $25,612.
Experience Columbus Minority Business Program
Together with the City of Columbus and Councilmember Nick Bankston, we have created the Experience Columbus Minority Business Program (MBP), a grant to support minority-owned businesses in our community via a free, year-long partnership with our organization.
What is Experience Columbus?
Experience Columbus’ vision is to be the leading force in creating and revealing the best of the Columbus experience to the world; the organization’s mission is to sell, market, and promote the Destination Columbus experience to visitors. Our partnership community includes over 900 businesses that are integrated into our work in the nearly $10 billion tourism industry.
Why partner with Experience Columbus?
Tourism fuels the local economy, employs residents, provides human services, supports local arts programs, and more.
Learn more about tourism’s local impact.
MBP Interest Form
Are you a minority-owned business interested in joining the program or in other opportunities? Click below to start your interest form for future consideration.
NEW REPORTING REQUIREMENT IN 2024: LEARN HOW SMALL BUSINESSES WILL BE IMPACTED
Starting January 1, 2024, some small businesses in the United States will be required to file a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Report with the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). This new reporting requirement is part of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), a law designed to help prevent and combat money laundering, tax fraud, and other financial crimes.
Many companies are required to report information to FinCEN about the individuals who ultimately own or control them. FinCEN began accepting reports on January 1, 2024. Learn more about reporting deadlines.
Keep reading to get your key questions answered to help you navigate BOI reporting.
MENTORING OPTIONS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES: FIND THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU
Mentors can play a crucial role in the trajectory of a small business through guidance, support, and encouragement. Mentors are often industry experts or business professionals who share their insights and knowledge of the industry to help entrepreneurs navigate the ever-changing challenges of business ownership to make more informed decisions.
Many organizations around the country offer mentoring programs and services for small business owners in all stages of their path. Learn about how you can take advantage of these programs, find the right mentor fit for you and your business, and even become a mentor yourself.
Columbus Region
Intro
Mission: To advance business opportunities for minority and small disadvantaged business enterprises, and provide market access that leads to sustainable business relationships.
Small businesses. Big opportunities.
Find free courses, mentorship, networking, and grants created just for small businesses.
Start 2024 with free resources that can help grow your business from Verizon Small Business Digital Ready.
Gain your edge in 2024 with Small Business Digital Ready, a learning program from Verizon. Enjoy events, courses, and more that can help your business grow—all for free. And you don’t have to be a Verizon customer.
Scars Left to Heal is Siobhan St. John’s personal testimony filled with transparency, pain, inspiration, sadness, and victory.
Rahgor Publishing & C0.
May 19, 2019
5 out of 5
Scars Left To Heal: A Memoir About Perseverance and Finding Acceptance
by Siobhan St John
Demonde Gladman (Foreword), Rahfeal Gordon (Consultant Editor)
Her memoir shares her past of dealing with cancer at a very young age and the life experiences that molded and shaped her into the woman she is today. Siobhan’s narrates vivid experiences that will have readers teary-eyed and cheering for her all at the same time. Through her memoir, Siobhan reminds readers that we must always keep our faith and never waiver in the midst of our storms. Her story is a testament that faith, keeping a strong support group around, and constantly pushing beyond our normal are some of the most important steps towards healing.
FIND CAPITAL
Venturize connects small business owners to potential financing options and business assistance services offered by Community Development Financial Institutions. CDFIs offer a wide range of financing options for businesses including term loans, lines of credit, credit cards, real estate financing, and more.
SBDC Online Trainings & Workshops
Black Executives Support Small Businesses Through SCORE
Resources for Black Entrepreneurs
Black small business owners and their communities have faced extraordinary challenges over the years. SCORE is renewing our commitment to being part of the solution. We’re here to give you the tools to meet and overcome any business challenge so that you can succeed.
Online Request for Counseling
Confidential, one-on-one counseling sessions for new entrepreneurs and existing business owners.
Please register in order to receive free, confidential business advice from our advisors. Registration is fast, easy, and free. Our business counseling services are:
Effective – We have years of experience helping small businesses succeed
Confidential – All our clients, their businesses, and related information are kept strictly confidential – we will not sell or provide your information to anyone without your permission.
Free – Our business counseling services are provided free of charge to businesses and entrepreneurs
Online Events
Access to Capital
Business Start-Up
Human Resources
Management/Leadership
Marketing Planning
Tax Planning
About Ohio SBDCs
The Small Business Development Centers of Ohio Network serves Ohio’s entrepreneurs through a unified network of counseling centers throughout the state.1st Stop Business Connection
The 1st Stop Business Connection provides start-up kits to potential entrepreneurs online.
Columbus Metro Area
320 N Grant Ave., Suite 1062
Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 287-5294
SBDC State Lead Center
Columbus Ohio Development Services Agency
Riffe Bldg
77 S High St, 28th Floor
Columbus, OH 43215
614-466-2711
The Entrepreneurship and Business Assistance Centers provide resources for starting or maintaining a small business in Ohio.
Programs for Individuals
The Department of Development is committed to helping Ohioans improve their lives. Through programs such as HWAP, HEAP, and PIPP, Ohioans can access assistance and improve their energy efficiency.
We also administer programs to assist Ohio’s entrepreneurial and small and minority business communities. Resources include:
Small Business Development Centers, the Minority Business Centers, and International Trade Assistance Centers, as well as the Small and Minority Business Financial Incentives Programs, the Ohio Business Lending Clearinghouse, and Insurance and Financial Development initiatives.
Start and Grow your business in Ohio
The Ohio SBDC network helps small businesses and entrepreneurs develop and grow.
SCORE Columbus OH
Free Business Mentoring in the Greater Central Ohio area
Get a copy of the Ohio Department of Development’s Guide to Starting Your Business in Ohio
State Incentives
Development has a variety of bonds, grants, loans, and tax credits that can assist Ohio companies as they grow and create jobs in Ohio.
To access a searchable database of grants, loans, and tax credits issued by Development, visit data.ohio.gov. If you have questions, please contact us at (614) 466-2609.
U.S. General Services Administration
State Agencies for Surplus Property (SASP) Contacts
The Federal Surplus Personal Property Donation program enables certain non federal organizations to obtain property the federal government no longer needs. Contact a State Agency for Surplus Property (SASP) representative, in the applicable geographic location below, to confirm eligibility. SASPs are state-run organizations that administer the federal program for the donation of Federal surplus property to public, tax-supported entities and eligible private nonprofit tax-exempt organizations.
New Amazon Academy Provides an Enlarged Suite of Free Services to Help Small Businesses Launch or Grow Their Businesses Online
Amazon Small Business Academy (ASBA) offers access to foundational business education and industry experts that will help aspiring and current small business owners accelerate their success in launching a digital business.
The new ASBA experience features three self-service educational tracks—Start, Build, and Launch—for a customizable experience based on where entrepreneurs are in their business journey.
Starting and Growing Your Minority Business
Development supports the growth and sustainability of small, minority, and disadvantaged businesses in Ohio. Supporting these businesses means providing them with technical and professional assistance, access to capital and bonding, and connection to business opportunities through the Minority Business Assistance Centers (MBAC). The Division leverages these resources to support the achievement of the state’s 15% Minority Business Enterprise set-aside requirement.
Central Ohio African American
Chamber of Commerce
Buy Black. Shop Black. Build Black.
A habit, not a hashtag.
Here’s a Sample of the Minority, Women, and Veteran Businesses and Entrepreneurs in the Metropolitan Columbus Area
2410 Home Acre Dr.
Columbus, OH 43231
book appointments at www.prestigebarbering.com
“When you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good you do good.”
We provide comprehensive, personalized home-based instruction!
LEARN WITH US
Connected – Grandview Night of Networking
Location: Vineyard Columbus – Grandview Campus
777 Goodale Boulevard
Grandview Heights, OH 43212
CG flips the script on networking, with surprises and connections that’ll make you say, “Who knew networking could be this much fun?!”
Organized by Eric J. Watt
About this event
CG flips the script on networking, with surprises and connections that’ll make you say, “Who knew networking could be this much fun?!”
Ontheshieldcatering and Personal Chef Services
For the Earth Conscious Consumer
Two Natural Sisters is a family-owned and operated company creating bath and body products for earth & body-conscious consumers.
We are also passionate about what we leave for and take from the Earth.
All of our packaging, including what we receive from our vendors, is recyclable. We are excited to share our products with others who are equally concerned about their bodies and the environment.
Affinity Memorial Chapel
ADDRESS
1166 Parsons Ave
Columbus, OH 43206
PHONE
(614) 427-1234
Why Choose Affinity?
At Affinity Memorial Chapel, we take great pride in caring for our families and will work tirelessly to provide you with a beautiful, lasting tribute to your loved one. In addition to the services we offer, you will receive an online memorial that you can share with family and friends. While honoring your loved one is our top priority, we also want to help you through this difficult time. We have a wide range of resources to support you not only today, but in the weeks and months to come. Why chose AFFINITY MEMORIAL CHAPEL? It’s simple. Our C.A.R.E.S. (Compassion, Authenticity, Respect, Empathy, Sincerity) Model is woven in the fabric of who we are and how we serve. Every family! Every time!
Please call us at (614) 427 1234 so we can help you through this process. Please find the link to our website as follows:
Online Memorials
We can create a customized, online memorial for you to share with family and friends. The memorial includes the obituary and any photographs you wish to provide. It will serve as a place for visitors to post condolences, share memories, upload photos, and light candles in honor of your loved one.
2581 Lockbourne Rd. Columbus, Ohio 43207 (614) 332-6422
Meet the new Amazon Small Business Academy
New Amazon Academy Provides an Enlarged Suite of Free Services to Help Small Businesses Launch or Grow Their Businesses Online
Amazon’s Small Business Academy gives early-stage entrepreneurs and small business owners the tools, resources, and networking opportunities to help grow their businesses online.
Author Stephanie R. Bridges is an award-winning, Amazon best-selling author, publisher, spoken word artist, and public speaker.
She founded In Spirit Power and Truth Publishing (I SPaT), LLC in 2014 and has since released ten titles in multiple genres.
YOUR TRUSTED AUTO REPAIR SHOP
Schedule Your Repair Today!
In 2008, Maraye Design Studio was founded with a vision to provide inspired interior design services in a timely manner at or below project budgets.
Working in person throughout the Midwest, and virtually all over the country, we have developed a process to create a seamless experience for every client, regardless of their location or project scope.
Our designers collaborate with homeowners, contractors, and architects on projects ranging from new K-12 school buildings to college and university spaces, office renovations, and residential interior design.
In addition to our new, virtual work and school-from-home packages, we offer new COVID solutions that help keep students, staff and loved ones safe.
Sankofa Arts
Sankofa Arts bridges the gap between ancestral excellence and present day ART. Let our adornments be the first to welcome you BACK HOME.
OUT THE BOX CREATIONS
We specialize in a variety of sweet treats for your home & body including Handmade Candles & Wax Melts, Sugar Scrubs, Whipped Soap Bars, Bubble Bomb Bath Fizzies, Massage Body Butter, Spa In A Box and Custom Party Favors. New products added monthly.
Diversity and Inclusion
As a Certified MBE – Diversity and inclusion are at the core of the E.E. Ward Moving & Storage mission and value system. As the oldest African American-owned business in the country, we understand the importance of having a diverse team, in order to serve a diverse community. We believe that in order to best execute our responsibilities and deliver excellent service to our customers, that our team must be assembled from the best and the brightest of a wide range of backgrounds and cultures – one that reflects our nation as a whole.
William H. Thomas
The Art Gallery in the Hood
Vector Power Wash, LLC
6031 E. Main St suite 207
Columbus OH 43213
6031 E. Main St suite 207
We are proud to announce that Vector Power Wash, LLC will be offering Interior and Exterior Sanitizing and Cleaning Services.. Call 614.725.6945/David for an appointment or free estimate!
Just some of what I smoked up for my family today – spare ribs, pulled pork, and not pictured – chicken quarters. Can’t wait for you to try!
We have BBQ party packs, with your choice of our tasty ribs, whole wings, and pull pork.
Please email us at bsmokinbbq@gmail.com for our BBQ party pack options, pricing and any questions you may have.
On-Demand Webinars
Our Business Clinic Series provides Ohio’s small businesses with information on a variety of topics, delivered by knowledgeable industry professionals. Check our Calendar of Events for other topics in this series.
Central Ohio Small Business Events
Mission, Vision & Sip Focus Groups
This is a free interactive business planning and strategy workshop. It will help you define a roadmap to execute your business ideas and objectives in a way that is individualized and practical. During the workshops, we cultivate a creative and thought-provoking environment for you to examine your income opportunities and develop a revenue strategy that is based on your personal objectives. COhatch host these workshops once a month, please use the link below for more dates, and details & to registers.
First Wednesday of the Month
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM EST
COhatch
The Gateway
1581 North High Street
Columbus, OH 43201
Academy for Community Entrepreneurs (ACE)
The Walter and Marian English Center for Art and Community
1251 Bryden Rd Columbus, OH 43205.
Join Central Community House every month for a community think-tank!
Connect with local entrepreneurs to discuss your business
More about this free event:
ACE is our initiative that helps grow new business ideas created by our community members. We help individuals jumpstart their business ideas and provide them hands-on training curriculum and the capital resources they need to make their dreams a reality.
For more information about the ACE Program, you can contact the Program Manager Carlos Mendez at cmendez@cchouse.org or visit ACE’s Facebook page:
Visit ACE’s Facebook page
Our dual mission is to:
Support high-potential, underserved small businesses
Channel talent into the economy
The Acceleration Project (TAP) is a non-profit that accelerates small business growth. Our business consulting services empower under-resourced entrepreneurs to create a more inclusive economy. TAP leverages its network of financial institutions, CDFI’s, economic development agencies, and corporate partners to scale and ensure the sustainability of our work. TAP’s innovative model channels underutilized talent into the economy by recruiting and cultivating a diverse consultant team that commits their time, expertise, and mentoring skills to advance TAP’s mission.
*More than 80,000 businesses were reached through broad-scale programs and more than 250 were served through personalized, deep engagements.
Columbus – Main office
65 E. State St., Suite 1350
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-427-0407
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed on all federal holidays.
Serving Allen, Ashland, Athens, Auglaize, Belmont, Champaign, Chillicothe, Clinton, Coshocton, Crawford, Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Gallia, Guernsey, Hancock, Hardin, Hocking, Holmes, Jackson, Knox, Lawrence, Licking, Logan, Madison, Marion, Meigs, Monroe, Morgan, Morrow, Muskingum, Noble, Paulding, Perry, Pickaway, Putnam, Richland, Shelby, Union, Van Wert, Vinton, Washington, and Wyandot counties.
Cincinnati
525 Vine St., Suite 1030
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Phone: 513-684-2814
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed on all federal holidays.
Serving Adams, Brown, Clermont, Clinton, Hamilton, Highland, Pike, Ross, Scioto, and Warren counties.
Dayton
VIRTUAL OFFICE
Phone: 614-633-6372
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed on all federal holidays.
Serving Butler, Clark, Darke, Fayette, Green, Mercer, Miami, Montgomery, and Preble counties.
Business Guides
Online
Free
Black Business & Entrepreneurship in the U.S.A.
The contributions Black business owners have made to entrepreneurship in the U.S. are indispensable. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau, there are more than 3 million Black-owned businesses from coast to coast, accounting for billions of dollars in annual revenue to the U.S. economy. That is a figure worth celebrating this February, Black History Month. Like many in the small business community, however, Black-owned businesses have seen their share of challenges throughout the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. But Black entrepreneurs are resolute. In fact, in the first year of the pandemic alone, there were more new Black-owned businesses proportionate to the total population than at any time in the previous 25 years.
Veteran contracting assistance programs
Veteran contracting assistance programs
Every year, the federal government awards a portion of contracting dollars specifically to businesses owned by veterans. Also, small businesses owned by veterans may be eligible to purchase surplus property from the federal government.
Learn about federal programs that help veteran-owned small businesses access federal contract awards and surplus personal property.
Contracting opportunities for veterans
Every year, the federal government awards a portion of contracting dollars specifically to businesses owned by veterans. Also, small businesses owned by veterans may be eligible to purchase surplus property from the federal government.
Veteran Small Business Certification (VetCert) program
Certification with SBA allows service-disabled veteran-owned small businesses (SDVOSBs) to compete for federal sole-source and set-aside contracts across the federal government. Certified veteran-owned small businesses (VOSBs) have additional opportunities to pursue sole-source and set-aside contracts at the Veterans Administration (VA) under the VA’s Vets First program.
SBA’s new Veteran Small Business Certification program implements changes from the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (NDAA 2021) which transferred the certification function from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to SBA as of January 1, 2023. The transfer provides veterans with a central support point for their small business certification needs.
