Ronda Barber

🛠️ The newest edition of the OhioMBE Bid Board is now available, featuring contracting opportunities, upcoming business events, and community highlights to support the growth of Ohio’s small and minority-owned businesses.

🔨 Featured Contracting Opportunities:
🧼 Janitorial Services – AMHA Service Center (Due Aug. 14)
🧼 Janitorial Services – REACH Opportunity Center (Due Aug. 14)
🧽 Carpet Cleaning Services (Due July 31)
🐾 Veterinary Services (Due July 30)

📥 Read the full July 17 Bid Board: https://bit.ly/4nOip1P

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🗓️ Upcoming Events – July 2025
📌 July 17 | 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
🦁 OhioMBE Procurement Fair @ The Columbus Zoo
🎯 Meet with buyers from the Zoo, CMHA, Franklin County, SSA Group & more
🎟️ Register here

📌 July 19 | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
💉 First Stick Phlebotomy and IV Summit

📌 July 19 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
🎄 Christmas in July – Red Riding Hood Rescue Project

📌 July 23 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
🎙️ Convos with Commissioner Crawley

📌 July 23 | 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
📱 Post. Pitch. Profit. (Hosted by OWCC)
💼 Learn to turn your social media into revenue

📌 July 23 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
📋 What to Include in General Conditions
💡 Protect your profit in construction contracts
🔗 Register at OHBDC.org

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📣 Add Your Event for FREE at OhioDiversityNetworks.com
Whether it’s a training, networking event, or community gathering, share your info and increase your visibility statewide.

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📰 This Week’s Must-Reads on OhioMBE.com
• Consultants for the Incompetent?
• SheLeads OH: Voices. Vision. Victory.
• Where Are the Black Churches?
• Westerville Hosts Sold-Out Procurement Fair
• Audit: Columbus City Schools Must Do Better

📢 Know another business owner? Forward this issue and tell them to subscribe at OhioMBE.com

In advocacy and action,
Ronda Watson Barber
Publisher, OhioMBE

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners is requesting proposals for:

🐾 RFP #2025-07-13
Spay, Neuter, Emergency Care, & After-Hours Emergency Veterinary Services

📌 Issued By: Franklin County Department of Animal Care and Control
🗓️ Proposal Due Date: July 30, 2025, at 3:30 PM ET
📅 Pre-Proposal Conference: July 23, 2025, at 10:00 AM ET

This RFP seeks qualified veterinary providers to support the health and wellbeing of animals in the county’s care through spay/neuter services and 24/7 emergency care.

📄 Full details and updates:
👉 Visit Franklin County’s Purchasing site:
http://purchasing.franklincountyohio.gov/businesses/bid-opportunities/

📬 Questions?
Contact: Erika Patray
📧 epatray@franklincountyohio.gov
📞 614.525.2595
🕔 Deadline for questions: July 25, 2025, at 5:00 PM ET

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📍 Posted on OhioMBE.com – Ohio’s hub for small and minority business opportunities.

#FranklinCounty #OhioMBE #VeterinaryRFP #AnimalCare #SmallBusinessOpportunities #BidAlert #SupplierDiversity

Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Online via Zoom
Cost: FREE for OBDC Members
🔗 Register at OHBDC.org

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Are you spending too much time writing quotes, estimates, or proposals — only to wonder if they’re even working?

If so, it’s time to discover how AI tools like ChatGPT can help you streamline your process, sound more professional, and ultimately win more contracts.

Join the Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) for a free online class on Wednesday, July 16 and learn how to make ChatGPT work for your business.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

• How to use ChatGPT to write professional quotes and proposals
• Techniques for customizing AI-generated responses
• Ways to save time while improving clarity and structure
• Pitfalls to avoid when using AI for client communication

This session is especially helpful for contractors, consultants, and service-based entrepreneurs who want to sharpen their quoting process and stand out with stronger proposals.

No prior experience with AI is required — we’ll walk you through it step by step.

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🎓 Who Should Attend?

• Small business owners
• Construction professionals
• Consultants and freelancers
• Anyone writing client quotes, estimates, or RFP responses

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🚀 Why It Matters

Strong quotes lead to stronger client relationships — and more closed deals. This class will help you stop guessing and start using the tools that give you an edge.

Don’t miss out — register now at OHBDC.org and take your proposals to the next level.

INVITATION FOR BIDS

Sealed bid proposals will be received by the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority at 100 West Cedar Street, Akron, Ohio 44307 until 2:00 p.m. local time on THURSDAY, AUGUST 14, 2025 at which time and place all bids will opened. Bid Results will be posted on SE Blueprint web site .  

JANITORAL SERVICES AND RELATED WORK at REACH OPPORTUNITY CENTER
390 WEST CROSIER STREET
AKRON,OHIO 44311

Specifications can be purchased at SE Blueprint, Inc. located at 520 South Main Street, Suite 2411, Akron, Ohio 44311 (330) 376-1689.  Please email (akron@seblueprint.com) or call with quantity requests and notice will be provided when documents are available for pick-up.

An email link for the above mentioned specifications is available at the Subcontractors Association NEO, 637 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, Ohio; Akron Urban League, Minority Business Assistance Center, 440 Vernon Odom Blvd., Akron, Ohio; the Builders Exchange of Canton, 5080 Aultman Rd., North Canton, Ohio; Builders Exchange of Cleveland, 9555 Rockside Road, Suite 300, Cleveland, Ohio; and the Ohio Construction News, 7261 Engle Road, Suite 304, Cleveland, Ohio.  A list of plan holders can be obtained from SE Blueprint’s website @ www.seblueprint.com

A Pre-Bid Conference will be held by the Housing Authority at the AMHA Administration Building, 100 West Cedar Street, Akron, Ohio 44307, on Tuesday, JULY 22, 2025 at 11:00 A.M.

NOTICE OF REQUIREMENT FOR AFFIRMATIVE ACTION TO ENSURE EQUAL EMPLOYMENT (Governor’s Order of January 27, 1972)

Bidders’ attention is called to the provision for “EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY CLAUSE” and the “STANDARD FEDERAL EQUAL EMPLOYMENT CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT SPECIFICATIONS”.  The goals, timetables, compliance and regulations set for in the Executive Order deemed part of this solicitation by reference.

Each bidder must insure that all employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of their race, color, religion, sex or national origin.

Bidder’s attention is further called to the provisions of Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701u) (Section 3), and are required to comply with all requirements as relates to Section 3, including training and employment opportunities for  Section 3 Residents and Business Concerns for this Section 3 covered project.

The Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to re-advertise our bids, and to waive any informality in bids received whenever such rejections, re-advertisement or waiver is in the best interest of the Housing Authority.

No bid shall be withdrawn for a period of (60) days subsequent to the opening of bids without the consent of the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority.

Persons with disabilities needing assistance are asked to contact AMHA’s ADA Coordinator, 100 West Cedar Street, Akron, Ohio  44307, (330) 762-9631 or Ohio Relay at 800-750-0750 at least seven (7) days in advance.

AKRON METROPOLITAN HOUSING AUTHORITY
HERMAN HILL
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Stay in the loop with the latest events supporting diverse entrepreneurs, small businesses, and community leaders across Ohio. These listings from OhioDiversityNetworks.com include business workshops, networking opportunities, and community celebrations happening this July.

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📑 July 16 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

OBDC Construction Academy: Using ChatGPT to Write Your Quote

Let AI help you win contracts! Learn how to use ChatGPT to write clear, professional, and persuasive quotes for your business. This session is perfect for contractors, consultants, and small business owners looking to save time and land more work.
🔗 Register at OHBDC.org
#ChatGPTForBusiness #ConstructionQuotes #OBDC

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🦁 July 17 | 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM

OhioMBE Procurement Fair – Hosted by The Columbus Zoo

📍 Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
Make new contracting connections in a wild setting! The July OhioMBE Procurement Fair is your chance to connect with purchasing reps from the Columbus Zoo and other supplier diversity champions.
✅ Scheduled 15-minute one-on-one meetings
💵 $24.99
🔗 Register at OhioMBE.com
#OhioMBE #SupplierDiversity #BusinessGrowth

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💉 July 19 | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

First Stick Phlebotomy and IV Summit

Full-day training and networking for healthcare professionals and students.
📍 See full event details at OhioDiversityNetworks.com

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💬 July 23 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Convos with Crawley

📍 Lifecare Alliance, 670 Harmon Ave, Columbus, OH
Join this in-person community conversation session led by local changemaker Crawley.
📍 Event details and updates available at OhioDiversityNetworks.com

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📱 July 23 | 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Post. Pitch. Profit. – Hosted by OWCC

Social media meets strategy! Learn how to turn likes into leads and followers into paying clients. This special Pitch & Connect event includes live pitches, real tips, and purposeful networking for women entrepreneurs.
🌟 OWCC members receive priority pitch slots.
🔗 Register at OHBDC.org
#OWCC #PostPitchProfit #WomenInBusiness

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📑 July 23 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

What to Include in General Conditions – OBDC Construction Academy

Are your General Conditions protecting your bottom line? This hands-on workshop will walk through what belongs in the General Conditions section of your bids and contracts.
Perfect for contractors, estimators, and project managers.
🔗 Register at OHBDC.org
#ConstructionAcademy #GeneralConditions #OBDC

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🌸 July 26 | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

South Side in Bloom

Celebrate growth, beauty, and community on Springfield’s South Side!
📍 Full event details and activities listed at OhioDiversityNetworks.com

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💥 Don’t miss these amazing opportunities to connect, grow, and thrive. Visit OhioDiversityNetworks.com regularly for new event listings and ways to get involved.

📢 Hosting an event that supports diverse communities or small businesses?
👉 Add your event for FREE at OhioDiversityNetworks.com

The excitement is building for the upcoming OhioMBE Procurement Fair on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium — and we’re thrilled to announce that SSA Group, the official food and beverage operator for the Zoo and Zoombezi Bay, will be in attendance!

SSA Group oversees a wide variety of food service and retail operations, offering potential contracting and partnership opportunities for local businesses — especially in catering, food products, event services, and more.

“We’re creating spaces where small businesses can get in front of decision-makers and make real connections that lead to contracts,” said Ronda Watson Barber, Publisher of OhioMBE and organizer of the fair. “Having SSA Group participate opens the door for vendors in the food, hospitality, and event industries to access opportunities they may not have had before.”

The July 17 event is expected to be one of the largest fairs of the year, featuring scheduled 15-minute appointments with:

• Columbus Zoo (Facilities, Marketing, Purchasing, and HR)
• SSA Group (Food & Beverage at the Zoo and Zoombezi Bay)
• Franklin County Purchasing
• City of Columbus
• State of Ohio
• And more agencies joining daily

Businesses from across Ohio attend to introduce their goods and services, build relationships, and compete for public and private contracts. Space is limited and appointments are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.

📍 Event Info:
🗓️ Thursday, July 17, 2025
🕛 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📌 Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
🎟️ Register at OhioMBE.com

Whether you’re in construction, catering, marketing, consulting, or professional services — this is your chance to get your business in front of major buyers.

Don’t wait — register today, and get ready to make meaningful connections that can grow your business!

COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce (OWCC) proudly announces its 2025 statewide conference, SheLeads OH – Voices. Vision. Victory., taking place on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the Quest Conference Center in Columbus, Ohio.

This dynamic event will unite women in business, leadership, and entrepreneurship from across Ohio for a powerful day of strategy, celebration, and connection.

This year’s conference will also feature a special edition of the OhioMBE Procurement Fair, providing attendees with direct access to procurement officers, supplier diversity professionals, and business development resources. This unique collaboration offers unmatched opportunities for minority- and women-owned businesses to make meaningful contracting connections.

“We are intentionally combining inspiration and opportunity,” said Ronda Barber, Executive Director of OWCC. “By including the OhioMBE Procurement Fair in the SheLeads OH Conference, we’re making sure women leave empowered — and with leads, contracts, and resources to grow.”

Event Highlights Will Include:

• Inspirational Keynote Speakers
• Interactive Workshops & Strategy Sessions
• Small Business Vendor Marketplace
• Statewide Networking & Professional Development
• OhioMBE Procurement Fair – Meet Buyers & Prime Contractors
• Resource Connections & Business Certification Support

Why Attend?

SheLeads OH is designed to amplify women’s voices, shape future visions, and celebrate victories at every stage of the entrepreneurial and leadership journey. Attendees will leave with tools, connections, and inspiration to lead boldly in their communities and industries.

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 Save the Date:
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
 Quest Conference Center | Columbus, Ohio

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Registration, vendor opportunities, and sponsorship details will be announced soon. Visit www.womeninohio.com to sign up for updates and be first in line when registration opens.

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About the Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce:
The Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce (OWCC) is a statewide, membership-driven organization that supports, connects, and empowers women business owners and professionals. Through advocacy, education, and economic development programs, OWCC advances equity and opportunity for women across Ohio.

About the OhioMBE Procurement Fair:
The OhioMBE Procurement Fair is a signature networking event that connects small, minority-, and women-owned businesses with large institutions and government agencies seeking suppliers. Hosted monthly, the fair has helped hundreds of businesses make meaningful contracting connections.

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Free Online Class – Wednesday, July 16 | 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

OBDC invites entrepreneurs, contractors, and small business owners to join us for a free virtual training on how to use ChatGPT to create clear, persuasive, and professional quotes that help you save time and win contracts.

Whether you’re submitting estimates for construction projects, service proposals, or responding to RFPs, this session will show you how to use AI to support your business writing and streamline your workflow.

✅ Participants will learn how to:

• Use ChatGPT to write and format quotes and proposals
• Customize AI responses to match your services and tone
• Save time without sacrificing quality
• Avoid common mistakes and make AI work for you

Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Online via Zoom
Cost: FREE for OBDC Members
🔗 Register now at OHBDC.org

This class is part of OBDC’s commitment to helping small businesses build smarter and grow stronger. Space is limited — reserve your spot today!

Legal Notice: IFB 2025- 014 Carpet Cleaning  

The Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority is seeking Request for Proposal (IFB) for the  procurement of Carpeting Cleaning Services. The response deadline is 2:00pm on Thursday July 31^st, 2025. Specifications may be obtained by visiting our website,  www.cmhanet.com or by contacting the Purchasing Department of the Columbus  Metropolitan Housing Authority at 880 E. 11th Ave, Columbus, Ohio 43211 or by calling  421-4434, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM, Monday – Friday. 

Explore new bid notices and events that help grow your business.
🔗 View now: https://bit.ly/4khvvBK

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🛠️ Current Contracting Opportunities:

🔥 Fire Damages & Related Work at Darrow Road Apartments – Due July 9
🚨 Fire Alarm Upgrades – Package II at Multiple Sites – Due July 7
💧 Village of Granville – WWTP Improvements (Rebid) – Due July 8
🅿️ Parking Lot Construction – Details available on the Bid Board

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🌍 Upcoming Events – July 2025:

🌱 July 3 | Bronzeville Growers Market – Community Backyards Workshop
📍 OSU African American & African Studies Center
🕓 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM

📋 July 8 | Certification 101 (Online) – Learn how to get certified
🕥 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
🔗 Register: https://OHBDC.org

♿ July 13 | 11th Annual All Disabilities Festival
📍 Dorrian Green Park (Behind COSI) | 🕐 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

🤖 July 16 | OBDC Construction Academy: Using ChatGPT to Write Your Quote
🕕 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM | 🔗 Register: https://OHBDC.org

🦁 July 17 | OhioMBE Procurement Fair – Hosted by the Columbus Zoo
📍 Columbus Zoo | 🕦 11:30 AM – 3:00 PM
🎟️ Register: https://buytickets.at/the912group

💉 July 19 | First Stick Phlebotomy and IV Summit
🕗 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

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📌 Submit Your Event for FREE on OhioDiversityNetworks.com
Make sure your event is seen by business and community leaders across Ohio!
🔗 Submit: https://forms.gle/y7hbZPjfHv49iC4f8

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👩🏾‍💼 Women-Owned? Add your business to the OWCC Directory!
Join a network that supports women-led entrepreneurship with a Pay What You Can membership.
🌐 Learn more: WomenInOhio.com

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📰 This Week’s Must-Reads on OhioMBE.com

• Westerville Hosts Sold-Out OhioMBE Procurement Fair

• The Audit Is In: Columbus City Schools Must Do Better

• Congratulations to Shinae White on Her Grand Opening

• Speak at the OWCC Summer Conference

• Just My Thoughts: Election Day Reflections

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📬 Visit OhioMBE.com to explore more bid notices and events.
📢 Do you like the Bid Board? Share it!