Media Contact: Jennifer Ciaccia: (216) 250-5863; jciaccia@cuyahogacounty.us

Newly created office will focus on the success of locally owned small businesses

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH - There is a new place for entrepreneurs and small business owners to go for support. Today, Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne announced the creation of the Cuyahoga County Office of Small Business. The new office within the Department of Development will offer personalized assistance and guidance to small business owners, ensuring they receive the support needed to navigate the business landscape seamlessly.

“The success of small businesses is integral to the growth of our workforce and economic sustainability of our region,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. “Cuyahoga County established the Office of Small Business to make it easier for small business owners to access resources and strengthen their networks. The office aims to attract more entrepreneurs to the area and tap into the abundant opportunities in our cities and neighborhoods.”

Cuyahoga County is home to over 30,000 small businesses, employing close to 300,000 residents with an annualized payroll of close to $18 billion. The Office of Small Business will foster connections and collaborations between businesses and various stakeholders in the county, including local chambers of commerce, trade associations, and industry leaders. These connections will open new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

The Office of Small Business will serve as a one stop shop for business owners to grow their networks, increase their workforce, find pathways to financial opportunities, seek educational services, and lean into peer support resources.

“Within the Department of Development, we recognized a critical need for resources devoted to supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs,” said Vaughn Johnson, Deputy Director for Economic Development. “The new Office of Small Business will proactively address strategies for improving initiatives to enhance the experience of owning a small business in Cuyahoga County.”

We know that the most critical time for every small business is the starting point. The Cuyahoga County Office of Small Business provides crucial support to aspiring entrepreneurs. Working with key organizations, the office can connect new businesses to key resources, including capital opportunities, as well as procurement and contracting services. Visit the site if you are interested in starting a new business.

Watch the video announcement of the Office of Small Business.