1,000 Jobs Created in Northeast Ohio since program launch
JobsOhio Small Business Grants support projects in eligible Ohio communities or businesses owned by underrepresented populations, including people with disabilities, veteran-, minority-, and women-owned businesses.
As part of a five-year economic competitiveness strategy that began in 2019, JobsOhio created the program in 2020 to help small businesses in Ohio access critical capital for growth. Since then, Team NEO has proactively worked to align with this strategy to help small businesses grow.
In fact, Northeast Ohio has led the state since the inception of the program. In total, 178 grants have been awarded in Northeast Oho since 2020, with 57 being awarded in 2024. And in 2024, the cumulative impact of these projects reached 1,000 new jobs.
Although these individual projects may not create a large number of jobs, they play a critical role in building a vibrant economy that is talented, resilient, and innovative, offering equitable opportunities for all. According to the Small Business Association, small businesses in Ohio account for approximately 45% of total employment, meaning a significant portion of job creation in the state comes from small businesses. By advancing these elements, the Northeast Ohio Region will be more competitive and increase individual prosperity for everyone in the region.
“Small business grants are vital because they empower local entrepreneurs, fuel economic growth, and create jobs, all while strengthening the fabric of our community,” stated Stephen Caviness, Senior Director, Project Management and Small Business Grant Lead. “We must continue to recognize the collective impact of small businesses.”
Companies interested in finding out more information about the JobsOhio Small Business Grant can reach out to Stephen at scaviness@teamneo.org or get more information here.
About Team NEO
Team NEO is a private, nonprofit economic development organization that ignites economic vibrancy, fosters sustainable growth, and champions equitable prosperity. As a designated JobsOhio Network Partner, we collaborate across all 14 counties in the Northeast Ohio Region to create strategies to attract and retain companies, drive innovation, cultivate a skilled workforce, advance market-ready sites, and promote and engage the region. To learn how Team NEO helps make Northeast Ohio more competitive, visit northeastohioregion.com.
About JobsOhio
JobsOhio, Ohio’s private nonprofit economic development corporation, enhances company growth and personnel development through business attraction, retention, and expansion across ten competitive industry sectors. With a team of seasoned professionals, JobsOhio utilizes a comprehensive network to foster talent production in targeted industries and attract talent through Find Your Ohio. Collaborating with seven regional partners, including Dayton Development Coalition, Lake to River Economic Development, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, One Columbus, REDI Cincinnati, Regional Growth Partnership, and Team NEO. JobsOhio delivers world-class customer service to provide companies with a competitive advantage.