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May 5, 2025

Second Quarter HCGP member breakfast HOSTED AT TOWNSEND TOWNSHIP BUILDING

32 HCGP members met to  network & learn from Roger Geiger, Executive Director of the Small Business Council at the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, on the impact of Small Businesses in Ohio

NORWALK, OH — On Wednesday, April 30th, members of the Huron County Growth Partnership gathered at the Townsend Township Building for a networking breakfast provided by Blue Ribbon Catering and to listen to a presentation from Roger Geiger on the economic impact of small businesses in Ohio. The mission of the Ohio Small Business Council is to promote and protect the establishment, growth and vitality of small business in Ohio. Here are some of the impressive statistics shared regarding Small Business in Ohio: 

  • Ohio is home to more than 1 million small businesses 
  • 96% of all businesses in Ohio have 25 or fewer employees
  • ~800,000 individuals are self-employed in Ohio
  • ~70% of Ohio’s first-time job seekers find employment with small businesses
  • 7 out of every 10 small business owner live within 50 miles of where they grew up!
  • Small businesses donate 250% more than larger businesses to local non-profits and community causes
  • 75% of small businesses donate an average of 6% of their profits to charitable organizations annually 
  • The average small business owner’s annual salary is less than $70,000 
  • The average startup capital needed for a first-time business is ~$10,000
  • 39% of small business owners report working more than 60 hours per week (nearly 95% report working more than 40 hours per week)

The primary issues that small business owners face today are the rising costs of healthcare and health insurance coverage, finding quality employees, labor costs and uncertain economic conditions. 

Members also took a look back at the wins of the first quarter at HCGP, including: 

  • More than 20 member exclusive events and programs 
  • HCGP Strategic Planning kickoff
  • 3 Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies for new businesses within Huron County
  • NAVB and the Parks & Rec received a $12,000 grant from the Huron County Community Foundation to host the summer concert series at the Amphitheater
  • Launched HCGP Podcast 
  • Launched RISE Succession & Exit Planning Services
  • Launched brand new HCGP website & branding 
  • Hosted top 10 Micropolitan Press Conference 
  • and so much more!! 

Looking ahead, HCGP will be finalizing its Strategic Plan with input from community leaders,  board members and stakeholders. Phase 2 of the website redesign is scheduled to launch early this summer as well, enhancing member communications and engagement significantly. Stay tuned for upcoming events and professional development opportunities. 

For more information on the Ohio Chamber and the Small Business Council visit www.ohiochamber.com

About Huron County Growth Partnership 

The Huron County Growth Partnership is a non-profit, public-private partnership that facilitates business and community growth through economic development and chamber of commerce activities and services. The Growth Partnership aims to grow the community and economy, support businesses, secure resources for and make a name for Huron County. If you are interested in expanding your existing business into or starting a new business venture in Huron County, please visit the website at www.huroncountyohio.com.