Shop Local, Make an Impact in Ohio this ‘Small Business Saturday’

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) - This holiday season, the Ohio Department of Development is inviting Ohioans to shop local and make an impact on Small Business Saturday, taking place Saturday, Nov. 30. By supporting neighborhood stores, cafes, and restaurants, Ohioans can help fuel the growth of Ohio's economy.

"Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and play a major role in Ohio's economic success," said Governor Mike DeWine. "Every dollar spent at a local small business goes toward strengthening our economy, creating jobs, and building community pride."

"When you choose a small business, you're supporting a family and local jobs, services, and neighborhoods," said Lt. Governor Jon Husted. "It's not just about picking up what you need, it's about investing in the heart of your community.

Ohio has more than 90,000 small business retailers and a total of more than 989,000 small businesses statewide, according to data published by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Small businesses employ more than 2.2 million Ohioans.

"I encourage you to explore the unique charm, and exceptional services Ohio's neighborhood shops have to offer on 'Small Business Saturday,'" said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. "When you support Ohio's small businesses, you're supporting families, dreams, and local communities."

For inspiration, Ohio.org features hundreds of businesses with items Made in Ohio. Categories include apparel, décor, furniture, food, wine, coffee, and more-perfect for holiday gift shopping!

Cincinnati-based J.P. Chips-n-Dip Salsa is one of many businesses featured on the Made in Ohio website. Founder Lamont Houston leveraged resources from his local Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) to become MBE/EDGE certified. In 2024, more than 3,000 certifications (MBE/EDGE/WBE/VFBE) were issued, opening the door to funding and contracting opportunities.

"We are in a better position to receive the help we need to further our growth in the business because of the assistance offered by our local MBAC," said Houston.

Houston is now exploring more programs offered by Development in hopes to further grow his business into new markets.

Development also supports Ohio small business owners and entrepreneurs through various business assistance centers that provide services at no cost to the business owner. Ohio Small Business Development Centers served more than 24,000 clients over the last two years, providing Ohio businesses access to $144 million in capital, building economic strength, and fostering growth.

Lace & Grace Boutique in West Union is growing thanks to support from the Ohio Small Business Development Centers. Founded in 2017 by mother-daughter duo Maranda and Brooklyn Young, the boutique offers women's clothing, accessories, and more with a mission to empower women through fashion. With guidance from SBDC counselors, the boutique secured a loan to move into a larger storefront, enabling them to expand their inventory, host community events, and offer new products.

"Since opening our new store front, we've experienced steady business growth and been able to add two additional employees, partner with other small businesses on events, and add a new division to our company," said Lace & Grace Boutique co-owner Maranda Young. "We are so grateful for the assistance we received from our local SBDC as we continue to strive to be a positive impact for our community."

Since relocating, Lace & Grace has grown its customer base and increased revenue and is planning to expand in the future.

More information on resources to support small businesses can be found on Development's 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.

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