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Startups Grants In Ohio - 2024

Explore our comprehensive guide to the latest startup grants in Ohio, offering vital funding options for budding entrepreneurs.

Lisa Shmulyan
Accounting & Tax
February 15, 2024

Ohio is full of grants for entrepreneurs and startups that want to start or grow their businesses. You can find funding for Ohio startups, grants for entrepreneurs in Ohio, and seed money for businesses. Ohio's grants cover many areas like farm research, education, business growth, environment, community projects, and tech advances. These grants are a big help for the economy.

Grants range from small investments for mom-run businesses to big money for farm and tech entrepreneurs. Small businesses can use the Ohio Job Creation Tax Credit and the Ohio Enterprise Bond Fund to get ahead. Cities like Toledo and Cleveland also offer grants for things like improving store fronts and tech growth.

Ohio works with federal programs on sites like Grants.gov to give more funding options1. Ohio also has free help like Small Business Development Centers, SCORE mentors, and Minority Business Help Centers. They guide you through the grant process.

Key Takeaways

  • Ohio provides extensive funding options for startups and entrepreneurs.
  • Diverse grants are available for industries ranging from agriculture to technology.
  • Specific city programs in Toledo and Cleveland support local business improvements.
  • Federal grant programs available through Grants.gov supplement state efforts.
  • Free resources in Ohio like SBDCs, SCORE mentors, and Minority Business Assistance Centers aid in application processes.

Introduction to Startup Grants in Ohio

Startup grants are key in boosting Ohio's Ohio startup ecosystem. They give crucial money for Ohio entrepreneurs. This support helps with innovation, entrepreneurial help, and mentoring in sectors like tech and agriculture. The JobsOhio Inclusion grant is special. It gives up to $50,000 to businesses making between $100,000 and $25 million. This shows how vital starting funds are for new companies2. Also, grants aim at veterans, minorities, women, and mompreneurs with special opportunities.

In this ecosystem, city-specific programs play a big role. For instance, in Toledo, the City Department of Economic Development has a Facade Improvement grant. It covers 50% of costs between $10,000 and $40,000 for commercial exteriors2. The Cleveland Tech Delta Program also stands out. It pays tech and medical businesses $5 for every square foot up to $50,000. However, these companies must create at least five new full-time jobs in Cleveland2.

Women entrepreneurs get a lot from programs like the Women'sNet Amber Grants. Every year, $435,000 is awarded. This includes monthly prizes of $30,000 and a yearly prize of $25,0002. Also, The MamaLadder’s High Five Grant gave $38,500 to 24 mom entrepreneurs in 2023. It awards between $5,000 and $1,000 to women who own at least half of a for-profit business2. Moreover, the Kitty Fund Mompreneur Business grant gives $1,000 microgrants to 25 mom-owned companies. These businesses must make under $5 million yearly and be owned by moms for more than a year2.

Lastly, the Military Entrepreneur Challenge supports veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs. The award sizes change based on location2. Through these many programs, Ohio is boosting its business world. It is providing the needed startup funds for Ohio enterprises to succeed and grow the state’s economy.

"Ohio's engagement with its startup world is clear. It has many financial aids for local entrepreneurs, strengthening early growth and promoting innovation statewide."2

Ohio Department of Development Grants

The Ohio Department of Development offers grants to grow businesses and boost the state's economy. They provide financial help to strengthen Ohio's presence in the market, locally and worldwide.

International Market Access Grant for Exporters (IMAGE)

The International Market Access Grant for Exporters (IMAGE) helps Ohio businesses grow their exports. It reimburses small and medium-sized enterprises for international marketing costs. This grant is key to Ohio's export grant programs.

It supports companies in attending trade shows, creating marketing materials, and joining export training programs. By reducing such costs, the IMAGE grant helps businesses enter new international markets. This boosts Ohio's global economic role.

Ohio Meat Processing Grant

The Ohio Meat Processing Grant aims to improve the state's meat processing industry. As part of Ohio's agricultural funding, it focuses on enhancing efficiency and food safety in processing facilities. This grant is crucial for small processors looking to update their technology and infrastructure.

Through these upgrades, the grant aims to expand businesses, increase operational efficiency, and support the local agricultural economy. This is part of the larger goal of Ohio's business expansion grants.

JobsOhio Inclusion Grant

The JobsOhio Inclusion Grant helps small to medium-sized companies in Ohio's needy areas grow. It supports firms owned by minorities, women, veterans, or the disabled. The goal is to make Ohio's economy stronger and more inclusive for everyone.

Bake Me Happy, owned by a minority and a woman, has seen great success thanks to this grant. Since 2014, they grew their bakery, moving into online sales and supplying other locals. Their new place needed a lot of work to get started3.

The AKA Team, a construction company owned by a woman and a minority, also benefited. They hired 20 more workers with the grant3. Journey Steel in Cincinnati bought new tech and tools to work better and expand with this support3.

Since 2020, the grant has helped 71 small businesses, creating 492 jobs and adding $28.6 million to wages4. These companies invested $11.0 million in their growth, showing how vital the grant is for Ohio4.

To get this help, companies must've been running for a year with at least $100,000 made yearly5. It aims to help firms in key areas like manufacturing and healthcare, but not retail or those needing face-to-face sales5. This focus helps make sure the help goes to those less represented.

The grant covers costs already paid by companies, needing proof of what was spent5. This helps businesses recover some money spent on growing and improving. The boost goes towards new assets, jobs, training, and making operations smoother5.

Essentially, the JobsOhio Inclusion Grant is crucial for helping businesses in struggling areas of Ohio. It gives special support aimed at growing smaller enterprises, making the state's economy stronger and including everyone in its success.

City-Specific Grant Programs

Ohio cities have special grants to help local businesses and nonprofits. These grants aim to grow the economy, boost community projects, and support sustainability in various areas.

Toledo City Grant Programs

The Toledo City Department of Economic Development offers a Facade Improvement grant. It covers 50% of costs from $10,000 to $40,000. The White Box Grant in Toledo covers 70% of costs. These costs range from $25,000 to $75,0002. These grants help businesses in Toledo recover and grow. They play a big role in improving the local economy.

Cleveland Tech Delta Program

Cleveland offers great opportunities for funding. The Cleveland Tech Delta Program provides grants up to $50,000. These are for tech and medical firms that create at least five jobs62. The Cleveland Municipal Small Business Initiative helps cover 15% of costs. This is for companies that use SBA loans. They must create one job for each $35,000 received6. These grants in Cleveland aim to increase jobs and spur innovation.

Oxford Building Facade & Sustainability Grants

Oxford offers grants for facade improvement and sustainability projects. Grants go up to $2,500 or 50% of costs. These efforts help update the area and encourage green practices2. Oxford's projects help businesses keep their properties beautiful and sustainable.

City of Lorain Non-profit Capital & Critical Improvement Fund (NCCIF) Program

The City of Lorain supports nonprofits through the NCCIF Program. It helps with capital improvements, operating expenses, and running organizations. This ensures nonprofits can do well7. Lorain's support makes community services stronger and improves local life.

Montgomery County Economic Development/Government Equity Grant

Montgomery County gives out the ED/GE Grant twice a year. It's for permanent improvement projects2. The goal is to encourage business growth and sustainability in the county7. Montgomery County's efforts ensure businesses keep growing in the area.

National Grant Programs Available to Ohio Startups

Entrepreneurs in Ohio have access to many national grant programs. These programs aim to boost innovation and offer essential funding. They are crucial for success in areas like technology and businesses run by women and veterans.

Grants.gov

Grants.gov is a central hub for federal grants available to Ohio businesses. It covers various sectors, offering a vital source for tech startup funding and support for veteran entrepreneurs. Applying through this platform increases Ohio businesses' likelihood of getting funds needed for their innovative projects.

Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs

The Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME) stands out as a key initiative. It focuses on supporting microenterprise development organizations and disadvantaged entrepreneurs. The goal is to help small businesses and social impact projects grow and become sustainable.

America’s Seed Fund

America’s Seed Fund, overseen by the National Science Foundation8, offers up to $1 million over two years through the Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program8. Companies must be small, U.S.-owned, and for-profit with less than 500 employees to be eligible. This fund is crucial for encouraging innovation among tech startups and ventures with a high impact.

WomensNet Grants

WomensNet provides grants for women-owned businesses, such as the Amber Grants. They give away three $10,000 grants each month and additional $25,000 grants annually9. Since 1998, WomensNet has supported women entrepreneurs across the U.S., including Ohio9. Women applicants must tell their business stories and apply by the month's end.

Kitty Fund Mompreneur Business Grant

The Kitty Fund focuses on mothers managing both motherhood and business ownership. It offers grants that help them grow their businesses while balancing family life. This emphasizes the importance of grants designed for the unique challenges of mompreneurs.

Military Entrepreneur Challenge

The Military Entrepreneur Challenge is designed for veterans moving into business. It provides funds to help veteran-owned startups launch and expand. This support is vital, especially for tech startups led by veterans with a vision for innovation.

These national programs are vital for Ohio startups, helping them find funds, mentorship, and resources to advance their ideas. For more details on grants, visit GrantWatch9.

Nonprofit and Private Grants for Ohio Startups

Ohio has many grants from nonprofits and private groups. These grants give important money and support to various entrepreneurs in the area.

The Kitty Fund

The Kitty Fund gives money to mompreneur grants in Ohio. It helps mother-led businesses grow. The goal is to boost women taking charge of their businesses and build a supporting community for them.

Warrior Rising Grant

The Warrior Rising Grant supports veteran startup grants in Ohio. It provides money and connects veterans with mentors and resources. This boost helps veteran-owned businesses grow stronger.

Fearless Strivers Grant

The Fearless Strivers Grant helps minority business grants in Ohio. It's for minority and women-owned businesses. This grant aims to make the business world more inclusive and empowering10.

In 2022, almost 1 million small businesses were in Ohio. This shows why such grants are key for growth10.

Ohio's big economy, worth $822.7 billion, shows how important these businesses are10. Grants boost small and medium businesses, which exported goods worth about $11 billion.

Resources for Ohio Small Businesses

Ohio small businesses can tap into various resources designed to help them grow and stay strong. This is particularly important during tough times, like the recent COVID-19 pandemic11. These resources include financial help, business mentoring, and support for entrepreneurs.

Ohio Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)

Ohio Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) are key players in offering business help. They provide counseling, workshops, and financial assistance. Entrepreneurs at different stages can get help, be it business mentoring Ohio, entrepreneurial assistance Ohio, or other special support. You can find more about these resources during the COVID-19 outbreak here11.

SCORE

SCORE is a crucial support system for Ohio’s small businesses, offering free mentorship and workshops. With seasoned mentors, it helps with marketing, finance, or strategy. This shows the commitment to business mentoring Ohio.

Minority Business Assistance Centers

Minority Business Assistance Centers (MBAC) focus on minority business development Ohio. They provide help to minority and disadvantaged businesses. Services include marketing plan development, financial assistance referral, and technical advice. This ensures all Ohioans have a chance to succeed.

Ohio's small business owners have access to major resources to face economic hurdles and grow. Services from the SBDC, SCORE, and MBAC play a huge part in the state’s economic strategy. They focus on helping minority and marginalized groups11.

List Of Startups Grants In Ohio

Ohio is full of chances for business owners eager to grow and innovate. This comprehensive list Ohio startup grants serves as a key guide. It shows the wide range of financing Ohio has ready for entrepreneurs. Whether it's through local government funds or private investments, those set on bringing their business dreams to life have many routes available.

Programs like the Accelerator Awards, TVSF Phase 2, and the Ohio Innovation Fund aim to support and prove new tech. They give financial aid and also draw in more investments and licensing deals. These efforts help build startups in healthcare and tech right here in Ohio. For more info, check out Ohio State University12.

When it comes to funding, Ohio has a lot to offer. The state gets a huge $44,529 million federal budget for grants and local funding12. With nearly 192,796 businesses, including over 104,867 small ones, the need for startup grants is clear12.

Also, Ohio's nonprofits, attracting over $100 billion yearly and employing more than 480,000 people, have many grant options13. Different areas like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati have their own specific grants. Entrepreneurs and nonprofits should look at the Ohio Association of Nonprofit Organizations (OANO) for guidance and learning13.

No matter if you're a tech startup wanting venture capital or a nonprofit seeking local grants, Ohio's startup grants directory Ohio has something right for you. Ohio is committed to creating a breeding ground for innovation and success for entrepreneurs statewide.

Tips for Successfully Applying for Grants

Getting grants is crucial for any new business in Ohio. To boost your chances of getting one, you need a plan. Make sure the grant exists, have a detailed business plan, know what they want, and apply correctly. Doing these things well increases your chance of getting money. This helps your business grow and succeed.

Confirm the Grant is Available

Before you do anything, make sure the grant you want is available. Ohio offers many grants through its programs. Some are for specific businesses, like those owned by minorities. These grants aim to help them start or grow14.Check if you meet the rules and can make the deadline.

Prepare Your Business Plan

A good business plan is key when asking for grants in Ohio. Your plan should show your goals, who you're selling to, money matters, and how you'll spend the grant. This plan proves how the grant will help you reach your goals. Businesses in Ohio should explain how they'll use the money for big things, like hiring or buying new equipment14.

Understand Grant Requirements

Each grant has its own rules you must follow. Knowing these rules makes you more likely to get the grant in Ohio. Some grants might ask you to pay a part, or have strict rules on how you report your spending. For instance, you might need to fill out forms before and after getting the grant14.Understanding these details helps avoid mistakes and increases your chances.

Submit a Complete and Accurate Application

The last step is very important. If you miss out documents or make mistakes, you might get disqualified. Make sure your application matches the grant's guidelines perfectly. Also, add support documents, like your business plan and money statements. This makes your application stronger. Paying close attention and following the guidelines is crucial in Ohio14. For more tips, check Ohio Humanities' website here.

FAQ

What types of startup grants are available in Ohio?

Ohio offers grants for many areas including agriculture research and business development. There are also grants for educational programs, environmental projects, and tech innovation. Entrepreneurs from various sectors find support, even those in special demographics like veterans and women.

What is the International Market Access Grant for Exporters (IMAGE)?

The International Market Access Grant for Exporters (IMAGE) is run by the Ohio Department of Development. It reimburses Ohio businesses for costs tied to expanding export sales. The goal is to boost these businesses' presence in international markets.

What assistance does the JobsOhio Inclusion Grant offer?

The JobsOhio Inclusion Grant supports small to medium-sized enterprises in struggling communities. It's also for businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, or disabled individuals. The grant helps with equipment purchases and construction, aiming to stimulate growth in challenging areas.

Are there city-specific grant programs in Ohio?

Yes, many Ohio cities have their own grant programs. Toledo, for example, offers facade improvement and interior renovation grants. Cleveland runs the Tech Delta Program, while Oxford has facade and sustainability grants. Lorain supports nonprofits with capital, and Montgomery County offers the ED/GE Grant for big projects.

What national grant programs are available to Ohio startups?

National grants like Grants.gov and PRIME are open to Ohio startups. There's also America’s Seed Fund. Other programs target specific groups: WomensNet Grants for women, the Kitty Fund for mompreneurs, and the Military Entrepreneur Challenge for veterans.

What kinds of grants are available from nonprofit and private sources for Ohio startups?

Private and nonprofit grants are available in Ohio for startups. The Kitty Fund, Warrior Rising Grant, and Fearless Strivers Grant focus on mother-led, veteran-owned, and minority or women-owned businesses. These grants aim to support diverse business visions.

How can Ohio Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) help entrepreneurs?

Ohio SBDC offers counseling, workshops, and financial help to entrepreneurs. They provide essential training and guidance to support startup and small business growth. This helps entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of building their businesses.

What is SCORE and how does it support Ohio businesses?

SCORE offers free mentorship and training to Ohio's small businesses. It connects business owners with experienced mentors. These mentors offer advice and support, helping businesses to expand and succeed.

What services do Minority Business Assistance Centers offer?

Minority Business Assistance Centers help minority-owned and disadvantaged businesses in Ohio. They offer marketing plan development, business counseling, and financial assistance referrals. Their goal is to empower these businesses for success.

What are some tips for successfully applying for grants in Ohio?

To secure grants, confirm their availability and have a strong business plan. Know the grant requirements and submit a complete application. These steps greatly improve your chances of getting funding.

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