Ohio has about 1 million small business owners statewide who can apply for small business grants. Submitting an application and competing for Ohio small business grants can help you grow your small or medium-sized enterprise.
Ohio’s statewide economy has a gross domestic product of $822.7 billion as of 2022. That’s the seventh largest GDP in the United States out of the 50 states and the District of Columbia. Small businesses contribute to the nation’s economy.
Small and medium-sized firms exported about $11 billion worth of goods from Ohio in 2021, which ranks 13th in the nation out of the 50 states and Washington, D.C., according to the most recent U.S. Census Bureau export data.
Here’s a list of some small-business grants available to Ohio businesses and some additional resources that may be helpful in the grant application process.
Ohio Small Business Grants
State, regional and city grant programs are available to Ohio businesses. However, before investing time and effort in the application process, it’s important to confirm that the grant program is funded for the current fiscal year.
Ohio department of development grants
The Ohio Department of Development offers services to businesses within the state, including a number of grant programs:
- International Market Access Grant for Exporters (IMAGE). Eligible businesses can receive up to $10,000 per year to reimburse 50% of the expenses they incur while expanding their export sales. Businesses must be for-profit, have an exportable product or service and be in operation for at least a year (among other requirements) in order to be eligible for this grant.
- Ohio Meat Processing Grant. Ohio livestock and poultry producers can receive grants of up to $250,000 to reimburse costs related to improved processing, food safety, expanded operations and worker training. The processing facility must be located in Ohio and be for-profit.
JobsOhio inclusion grant
JobsOhio is a nonprofit, private economic development corporation located in Columbus, Ohio. It offers the JobsOhio Inclusion Grant (JOIG) which is designed for small to medium-sized businesses in distressed communities as well as those that are minority-owned, woman-owned, veteran-owned businesses or owned by an individual with a disability. To be eligible, a business must be in operation for at least a year and have revenue between $100,000 and $25 million. Grant amounts go up to $50,000 for eligible costs such as machinery, equipment, buildings, new construction, land, technical improvements, revitalization costs and more.
Toledo city grant programs
Through the Department of Economic Development, the following grants are available to Toledo businesses:
- Facade Improvement Grant Program. This program reimburses 50% of the eligible costs incurred to improve the exterior of your business building. Reimbursements can go up to $40,000, but the minimum is $10,000. Applicants must own or be in the process of buying the building and also be current on taxes, utilities and other obligations to government agencies.
- White Box Grant Program. This program reimburses 70% of eligible interior renovation costs needed to meet building code and accessibility requirements. The minimum reimbursement is $25,000 with a maximum amount of $75,000. Applicants must be the owner of the building at the time the grant is awarded and be current on payments to federal and local government agencies.
Cleveland tech delta program
Tech and medical companies moving to or expanding within Cleveland may be interested in the Tech Delta Program managed by the Cleveland Department of Economic Development. Grants are offered based on square footage ($5 per square foot) up to a maximum of $50,000. To be eligible, the for-profit business must create a minimum of five new, full-time jobs as a result of the move or expansion to Cleveland.
Building facade & sustainability grants for Oxford businesses
The city of Oxford, Ohio, offers Building Facade & Sustainability Grants of up to $2,500 (or 50% of the project cost) for business facade improvements as well as upgrades to HVAC, insulation, and energy and water efficiency. Grant funds are released to businesses after the improvements are completed. Businesses must have been operating in Oxford for at least one year. Applications are now open and will be accepted until Feb. 29, 2024. Grant recipients will be announced in March.
City of Lorain non-profit capital & critical improvement fund (NCCIF) program
The city of Lorain’s Building, Housing, and Planning Department is offering the Lorain Non-profit Capital & Critical Improvement Fund (NCCIF) Program to nonprofit organizations located in the city. Funds can be used for improvements to the interior and exterior of buildings and expansion of to the facility. Awards can go as high as $75,000. To be eligible, organizations must have tax-exempt status with the IRS and provide services to individuals living in Lorain.
Montgomery county economic development/government equity grant
For businesses in Dayton and the surrounding area, the county offers the Montgomery County ED/GE Grant. This program awards funds in the spring and fall of each year. Grant funds can be used for new construction, renovations, utility upgrades, parking and other permanent improvement projects. Local jurisdictions apply for the funding on behalf of the business.
National Grant Programs Available to Ohio Small Businesses
Numerous small-business grants offered by the federal government and corporations are available to Ohio small businesses. Here are a few to consider:
Grants.gov
Government small-business grants administered by various federal agencies can be found on Grants.gov as well as information on the grant process. Numerous federal agencies offer grants including the U.S Department of Labor, National Endowment for the Arts and the National Science Foundation.
Program for investors in microentrepreneurs
Through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), the Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME) is designed to help low-income entrepreneurs access funding to start or expand their small businesses. PRIME grants are awarded to microenterprise development organizations so that they can provide access to capital, training and technical assistance to disadvantaged microentrepreneurs.
America’s seed fund
Designed to benefit small businesses in the technology sector, America’s Seed Fund offers grants ranging from $50,000 to $1.8 million. Funding is through the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. For-profit businesses operating in the U.S. with fewer than 500 employees are eligible. Awards are distributed through three phases from proof of concept to development to commercialization.
WomensNet grants
Women small-business owners in Ohio may want to consider the grants offered by WomensNet. Amber Grants, Startup Grants and Business Category Grants are awarded monthly in the amount of $10,000, with separate $25,000 grants for each of the three categories given at the end of the year. Businesses aren’t required to select a category, but will be considered for all three when completing an application.
Kitty fund mompreneur business grant
The Kitty Fund Mompreneur Business Grant is a national grant program available to mother-owned businesses with two or more employees. Micro grants of $1,000 will be awarded to 25 businesses. Pre-registration is now open, with the full application launching in March 2024.
Military entrepreneur challenge
The Military Entrepreneur Challenge (MEC), run by the Second Service Foundation, is a national grant program for veterans, their spouses and Gold Star Family entrepreneurs. It’s a three-part program that ends with an opportunity to win a small grant for your small business. Grant awards vary by event.
Department or Agency: Ohio Department of Development
The Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) Loan Participation Program helps small businesses in urban, rural, and other underserved communities in Ohio by providing fair and responsible financing. Borrowers must apply to one of three participating CDFIs and must be registered with the Ohio Secretary of State as a corporation, partnership, LLC, or sole proprietorship. Those eligible must also have fewer than 250 employees and revenues under $20 million. Loans are capped at $1 million and cannot exceed 30% of total borrowings. There are a wide range of permitted uses including working capital, inventory, marketing, research and development, and to purchase, renovate or improve property. See the program webpage for more details and links to apply.
Department or Agency: Ohio Department of Development
The Ohio Capital Access Program (OCAP) is a loan guarantee program that enables small businesses to get access to the capital they need to grow. The program is open to Ohio businesses with fewer than 250 employees and revenues under $10 million. Loans are limited to $350,000 for fixed assets and $250,000 for working capital. See the program webpage for full eligibility requirements, terms, interest rates, and information on how to apply.
Department or Agency: Ohio Department of Development
- Loan: Micro-Loan Program
The Micro-Loan Program is designed to support certified minority and/or women-owned businesses by offering small, fast-track loans at a 0% interest rate to help them expand, create, and/or retain jobs. Existing minority and/or women-owned Ohio businesses are eligible to apply for loans between $10,000 and $45,000, to be used for working capital, machinery, leases, debt refinancing, and more. Visit the webpage (linked above) and the guidelines document for more information and to apply.
Department or Agency: Ohio Department of Development
The Women’s Business Enterprise Loan Program is designed to help Ohio businesses that are certified as women-owned, and at least 51% owned by women. Because businesses must present three years of tax returns, early-stage startups are ineligible. Acceptable uses for loan funds include purchasing or renovating real estate, leasehold improvements, and buying machinery or equipment. Loan sizes range from $45,000 to $500,000. Please see the webpage for full details and to apply.
Department or Agency: Governor’s Office of Workforce Transformation
The Industry Sector Partnership Grant helps foster collaboration between businesses, education and training providers, and other leaders working to promote workforce development. Grants are open to multiple private-sector businesses working together toward a common goal. Specific industry focus projects are permitted.
Two sub-programs exist: The Spark Grant provides seed funding for new sector partnerships to help them become sustaining and self-sufficient. The Accelerant Grant goes to existing sector partnerships so they can expand their reach and impact. Spark grants range from $50,000 to $100,000, while Accelerant Grants go as high as $250,000. Both programs have a 2-to-1 matching fund requirement. See the web page for more information and to learn when the next funding round opens.
Department or Agency: Ohio Department of Development
The Diversity and Inclusion Technology Internship Program supports businesses in getting access to diverse, young talent by reimbursing two-thirds of an intern’s wages up to $7,500. Host companies can have a technology need or be operating within the technology sector. Note, companies must have offices in a non-residential workspace and pay at least $15/hour. Businesses can hire up to four interns at a time for four different positions. See the website for details and a link to apply.
Department or Agency: Ohio Department of Development
- Loan or Grant title: Technology Validation and Startup Fund
The Technology Validation and Startup Fund is an annual program open to Ohio startups looking to commercialize technology developed by Ohio education institutions or nonprofits. Funds are used to determine commercial viability to support a startup company and support the costs of licensing the technology from the originating institution. Applications are competitive and complex, so see the webpage for more details and to learn when the next grant period opens.
Department or Agency: Ohio Department of Development
- Grant title: International Market Access for Exporters (IMAGE)
The International Market Access for Exporters Program supports Ohio companies seeking to increase sales of exported products or services. The program reimburses up to $10,000 per program year for pre-approved activities. Companies must operate a for-profit business that manufactures, assembles, and/or distributes a product, or provides an exportable service. Ohio businesses must meet defined small business standards, be made of primarily U.S. content, and have been operating for over a year. Acceptable activities include international trade shows, trade missions, commercial service programs, and more. Please see the website for full details and dates for funding rounds.
Read Also: Top 28 Colorado Startup Accelerator For Your Startup This Year
Department or Agency: Ohio Department of Development
- Loan or Grant title: Export Training
The Export Training program provides 100% reimbursement of export training completed to benefit Ohio companies meeting program eligibility requirements. Training must be completed before reimbursement requests are made, but note, requests must arrive within 30 days of training completion. Companies must operate a for-profit business that manufactures, assembles, and or distributes a product, or provides an exportable service. Ohio businesses must meet defined small business standards, be made of primarily U.S. content, and have been operating for over a year. Maximum reimbursement is up to $5,000 per grant year. See the website for details and a link to apply.
Department or Agency: Ohio Bureau of Worker’s Compensation (BWC)
- Loan or Grant title: Safety Intervention Grant
The Safety Intervention Grant is designed to assist Ohio employers in their efforts to reduce or eliminate injuries or illnesses associated with a specific process or business activity by using new equipment. Companies are eligible for grants up to $40,000 for each three-year eligibility cycle, though a 3-to-1 matching is required. BWC gives three dollars for every $1 in employer contribution. See the website for application requirements, deadlines, and details.
Grants for Small Businesses Ohio
If you’re looking for small business grants in Ohio, here are some potential options to consider:
International Market Access Grant for Exporters (IMAGE)
- Program description: The IMAGE program can help you export your goods or services from the Buckeye State to foreign markets.
- Incentive: Eligible businesses can receive up to $10,000 in reimbursements for eligible business expenses, including translations of company marketing materials and international trade show participation costs.
- General requirements: Here are some of the general requirements for this grant:
- Be an Ohio small business owner
- Manufacture, assemble, and distribute a product or provide an exportable service
- Have a strategic plan for exporting
- Have a product or service consisting of at least 51% U.S. content
- Have at least 12 months of operational experience
- Be in good standing with all Ohio state regulatory agencies
- Not be debarred from doing business with the federal government
- Attest that you will not enter knowingly into any transactions with a person in the Excluded Parties List System
- How to apply: You can apply for IMAGE and export training grants on Ohio’s Department of Development application portal.
Safety Intervention Grant (SIG) Program
- Program description: The SIG Program provides matching grants to eligible employers who buy workplace equipment to substantially reduce or eliminate injuries and illnesses associated with a particular task or operation.
- Incentive: Receive up to $40K in matching funds comprising $3 for every $1 you contribute toward making your workplace safer.
- General requirements: Here are some of the general requirements for this grant:
- Be a private, state-fund employer or a public employer taxing district covered by Ohio’s State Insurance Fund
- Maintain active coverage
- Complete sufficient payroll or true-up reporting as required
- Be current on all monies owed to the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC)
- Demonstrate a need for safety intervention
- Provide one-year baseline data
- How to apply: You can apply for SIG funding through the BWC online grant management portal.
Trench Safety Grant (TSG) Program
- Program description: The TSG program provides matching grants to eligible employers who buy qualified items that substantially reduce or eliminate injuries associated with trenching operations.
- Incentive: Receive up to $12K in matching funds comprising $4 for every $1 you contribute toward making your trenching operations safer.
- General requirements: Here are some of the general requirements for this grant:
- Employ workers who perform excavations or who work in trenches
- Be a private, state-fund employer or a public employer taxing district covered by Ohio’s State Insurance Fund
- Have active Ohio workers’ compensation coverage and maintain continuous active coverage while participating in the program
- Be current on all monies owed to BWC
- Have at least 12 months of operational experience
- Have reported payroll for at least one full policy year
- Demonstrate a need for trench safety intervention
- How to apply: Access the TSG funding application online and submit your completed application to BWC via email.
Drug-Free Safety Program (DFSP) Grants
- Program description: DFSP grants can offset some of the costs of fostering a drug-free workplace in compliance with Ohio’s Drug-Free Safety Program.
- Incentive: Be reimbursed for some of the costs involved in developing a written DFSP policy in conjunction with legal review, educating employees on the misuse of alcohol and other drugs, and offering relevant supervisor training.
- General requirements: Here are some of the general requirements for this grant:
- Be a private, state-fund employer or a public employer taxing district covered by Ohio’s State Insurance Fund
- Have active Ohio workers’ compensation coverage and maintain continuous active coverage while participating in the program
- Be current on all monies owed to BWC
- Have reported payroll for at least one full policy year
- Participate in BWC’s DFSP
- How to apply: Access the DFSP grant application online and mail your completed application to the BWC.
Toledo Facade Improvement Grant Program
- Program description: The City of Toledo typically offers Facade Improvement Grant funding to eligible property owners who enhance the facade of a building used for commercial, industrial, or mixed-use purposes.
- Incentive: Be reimbursed between $10,000 to $40,000 for implementing a comprehensive facade improvement project that enhances an eligible building in the City of Toledo.
- General requirements: Here are some of the general requirements for this grant if you’re a small business owner:
- Own eligible property in the City of Toledo used for commercial, industrial, or mixed-use purposes
- Be in good standing with local, state, and federal government agencies
- Propose a comprehensive facade improvement project to an eligible building
- Comply with Toledo’s zoning and building codes
- The following businesses are not eligible for this grant:
- Liquor stores
- Tobacco stores
- Pawn shops
- Payday loan businesses
- Weapons dealers
- Adult entertainment firms
- Franchise or chain businesses
- How to apply: Anyone interested in Toledo’s Facade Improvement Grant Program can apply when the program reopens. In the interim, you can submit your interest for updates pending the reopening of the program.
Read Also: Top 43 Colorado Small Business Grants & Funding This Year
Quick note: This is not to be taken as tax, legal, benefits, financial, or HR advice. Since rules and regulations change over time and can vary by location, consult a lawyer or HR expert for specific guidance.
Eligibility Criteria for Small Business Grants Ohio
To qualify for small business grants in Ohio, there are certain eligibility criteria that need to be met. While the specific requirements may vary depending on the grant program, some common eligibility factors include:
- Business size: Most grant programs target small businesses with a limited number of employees or annual revenue thresholds.
- Industry focus: Some grant programs may specifically target certain industries or sectors such as technology, manufacturing, or agriculture.
- Location: Certain grants may only be available to businesses located within specific regions or communities within Ohio.
- Financial need: Many grant programs prioritize applicants who can demonstrate a genuine need for financial assistance to support their business goals.
- Business plan: Having a well-developed business plan that outlines your objectives, strategies, and projected outcomes is often a requirement when applying for small business grants in Ohio.
Funding Amounts & Application Deadlines for Different Grant Programs in Ohio
The funding amounts and application deadlines for small business grants in Ohio can vary depending on the specific program. It’s essential to research and review each business enterprise loan program and grant opportunity thoroughly to understand the financial support available and the timeline for application submission. Here are a few examples:
- The Business Enterprise Grant Program offers grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, with application deadlines typically falling within specific periods throughout the year.
- The Innovation Ohio Loan Fund provides loans of up to $10 million, with rolling application deadlines.
- The Export Assistance Grants, a business enterprise loan program, offer reimbursement of eligible expenses up to 50%. Applications for this program are accepted throughout the year until funds are exhausted.
- The Ohio Incumbent Workforce Training Voucher Program provides reimbursements of up to 50% of eligible training costs, with limited annual funding available.
Specific Industries or Sectors Targeted by Grant Programs in Ohio
Ohio’s grant programs often focus on supporting specific industries or sectors that contribute significantly to the state’s economy. Some common areas of emphasis include:
- Technology and innovation: Many grant programs aim to foster technological advancements and innovation across various industries such as biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, and information technology.
- Agriculture: Grants are available for businesses involved in agriculture-related activities such as farming, food processing, and agribusiness development.
- Energy: Ohio offers grants to encourage clean energy initiatives, including renewable energy projects and energy efficiency improvements.
- Workforce development: Grant programs may prioritize businesses that provide training opportunities or create jobs in high-demand fields like healthcare, skilled trades, or emerging technologies.
How to Apply for a Small Business Grant in Ohio
The first rule in applying for a small business grant is to check on any deadlines. Some programs accept applications throughout the year, while others may have annual or quarterly deadlines.
While you shouldn’t rush yourself in filling out your applications, it is in your best interest to get them in as early as possible. Most grant programs have a limited amount of funds and may stop even reviewing applications once the money is exhausted.
Grant writing, as applying for grants is called, is a craft in its own right and a full-time profession for some people. If you’re coming at it for the first time you’ll find a lot of useful how-to information in books and online. For example, Grants.gov has a blog devoted to helpful grant-writing tips.
Among them: try to put yourself in the place of a person reviewing your application and enlist some capable proofreaders early in the process not only to spot typos but to point out any issues of logic or structure that may be interfering with your message.
Free Resources for Ohio Small Businesses
There are free resources available to Ohio small businesses that can help you prepare for a grant application and other types of funding.
Ohio small business development centers (SBDC)
Whether starting a small business or expanding an existing company, your local Small Business Development Center can be a source of free or low-cost business counseling, workshops and assistance with services such as financial projections, cash flow analysis, funding sourcing and marketing research. Centers are located throughout the state of Ohio.
SCORE
SCORE is a nonprofit organization with a national network of volunteer business mentors. Mentors offer advice on business planning, financing and other topics at no cost. In addition, SCORE provides training, webinars, courses and online resources. SCORE offices can be found in Columbus, Cincinnati, Toledo and other areas in the state.
Minority business assistance centers
Free assistance is available to small, minority-owned, and disadvantaged businesses through Minority Business Assistance Centers located throughout Ohio. This includes services such as accounting assistance, marketing plan development, referrals to financial assistance programs and more.
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