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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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, the Portage Development Board has proactively collaborated with Team NEO to help small businesses grow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A total of 25 companies in Portage County have benefitted from the program since 2020, representing 230 new positions and the retention of more than 300 jobs. In 2024, seven companies were supported, representing 32 new jobs and the retention of 114 positions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While these individual projects may not generate a high volume of jobs, they are essential in cultivating a dynamic, resilient, and innovative economy that provides equitable opportunities for all. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe JobsOhio Small Business Grant is a game changer for qualified businesses,\u201d said Brad Ehrhart, president of the Portage Development Board. \u201cWe are thankful for our partners at Team NEO and our local governments to help deliver this program to our customers.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cSmall business grants are vital as they support local entrepreneurs, drive economic growth, generate jobs, all while strengthening the fabric of our community,” added Matt Dolan, CEO of Team NEO. \u201cThe Portage Development Board has been a valuable partner is supporting this program, helping the Northeast Ohio Region reach 1,000 new jobs through JobsOhio Small Business Grants.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Companies interested in finding out more information about the JobsOhio Small Business Grant can reach out to Stephen at or get more information here.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Portage County local companies recently able to grow their businesses with a JobsOhio Small Business Grant in the Northeast Ohio Region are outlined below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Glazing Systems, Inc.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The woman-owned company manufactures and installs commercial door systems designed to enhance both transparency and energy efficiency in buildings. It was awarded a $50,000 JobsOhio Small Business Grant to acquire a Rhino machine, which will double its metal cutting capacity and resolve a production bottleneck that has been limiting revenue growth. The new machine will automate production, improve workplace safety, and support business expansion. As a result, the project retained 12 existing positions and created three new jobs. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Schaeffer Metal<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The veteran-owned, third-generation family business specializing in tank trailer repair and maintenance sought to expand its operations in Ravenna. To support this growth, Schaeffer Metal was awarded a $50,000 JobsOhio Small Business Grant for a new roof, allowing it to increase production capacity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Masters Precision Machining Inc.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n A woman-owned manufacturing company in Tallmadge, specializing in machining, turning, milling, fabricating, and prototyping, received a $50,000 JobsOhio Small Business Grant for efficient machinery. This grant enables Masters Precision Machining Inc to meet the demands of its new client.<\/p>\n\n\n\n About Portage Development Board<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Portage Development Board (PDB) is a 501 (c)(3) private non-profit organization that serves as the economic development agency for Portage County. Its goal is to help companies locate, stay, and grow in Portage County. More information can be found on their website at www.PortageDevBd.org<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n About Team NEO<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 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<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n About JobsOhio<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n 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<\/a>. Collaborating with seven regional partners, including Dayton Development Coalition<\/a>, Lake to River Economic Development<\/a>, Ohio Southeast Economic Development<\/a>, One Columbus<\/a>, REDI Cincinnati<\/a>, Regional Growth Partnership<\/a>, and Team NEO<\/a>. JobsOhio delivers world-class customer service to provide companies with a competitive advantage.
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