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Small Business Advisory Council

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The Small Business Advisory Council is a dynamic group of business leaders and industry experts from across the state, who come together to champion the success of small businesses in Ohio.

This diverse council leverages its collective expertise to shape initiatives that empower small businesses to thrive, fostering innovation, economic opportunity, and resilience in every corner of the state.

JobsOhio believes in the importance of small businesses and recognizes the vital role they play in building strong communities and driving Ohio’s economic growth. In partnership with the Small Business Advisory Council, JobsOhio is focused on supporting the needs of Ohio’s growing small businesses and their owners.

The council’s role includes:

  • Providing guidance: Serving as a trusted advisor to JobsOhio on small business strategies.

  • Driving engagement: Building relationships and connections that strengthen Ohio’s small business ecosystem.

  • Promoting resources: Raising awareness about programs like the JobsOhio Small Business Grant and other key initiatives.

  • Enhancing programs: Delivering feedback to refine and improve support for small businesses.

Through these efforts, the Small Business Advisory Council ensures Ohio’s small businesses have the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to grow and succeed.

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Current Members

Chair: Keena Smith, Women’s Center for Economic Opportunity

Vice-Chair: Eric Kearney, African American Chamber

Candice Matthews-Brackeen, Lightship Foundation

Monica Womack, Small Business Owner

Ronald C. Todd, Social Impact and Opportunity

Barb Smith, Journey Steel

Lilleana Cavanaugh, Minority Business Development Division

Jenise Contreras, Northeast Ohio Hispanic Center for Economic Development

Jelani Johnson, Dayton Area Chamber

Roger Geiger, Ohio Chamber

Megan Reichert, Mercy Health – Toledo

Daniel Segool, First National Bank

JobsOhio Members

Hannah Baumgartel, JobsOhio

Terrence Slaybaugh, JobsOhio

Ashley Gomes, JobsOhio

Darnita Bradley, JobsOhio

Jonathan Bridges, JobsOhio

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