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Which Business Certification Is Right for Your Company?

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Are you wondering which business certifications are right for your company?

The Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce (OWCC) and Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) are presenting Certification 101, a free online session designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners understand the certification opportunities available to them.

The session will be held today, Tuesday, August 18, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. online via Zoom.

During the session, participants will learn about the new OWCC Women’s Business Certification as well as other local, state and federal certification programs, including WBE, MBE, EDGE, DBE and veteran-owned business certifications.

We’ll discuss eligibility requirements, application basics, the benefits of certification and how certifications can help position your business for contracting, networking and growth opportunities.

We’ll also talk about something that’s just as important as getting certified: what you do with the certification once you have it.

Whether you’re operating a startup, side hustle, home-based business or established company, Certification 101 will provide information to help you determine which certifications may be right for your business and what your next steps should be.

Certification 101: Understanding Business Certifications
Tuesday, August 18, 2026
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
FREE

Register today:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/gOWj5rIdRwujHMZvlz39sA

Presented by the Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Ohio Business Development Center.

Columbus Zoo Joins OhioMBE Awards as a Supporter Sponsor

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The Ohio Business Development Center is proud to announce the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium as a Supporter Sponsor of the 2026 OhioMBE Awards.

The Columbus Zoo’s support helps OBDC continue providing small businesses with professional development, construction training, certification assistance, mentoring and access to valuable business resources.

The OhioMBE Awards recognize the accomplishments and economic contributions of Ohio’s small and minority-owned businesses. This year’s celebration will take place Thursday, October 22, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Huntington Park.

We sincerely thank the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium for supporting OBDC and demonstrating its commitment to Ohio’s diverse business community.

Proceeds from the awards benefit OBDC programs. Tickets are available at OHBDC.org.

Contractors: There are still a few appointments available for TODAY’S Ask the Construction Expert session!

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Get 15 minutes one-on-one with an experienced construction professional to ask about a project or business challenge you’re dealing with right now.

Estimates and bids. Contracts. Blueprints. Project management. Change orders. Bonding. Certifications. Cash flow. Bring YOUR question and get practical guidance.

TODAY — August 12
12:00 PM – 1:15 PM
Online via Zoom
FREE

Appointments are limited. Reserve your time slot now !

OBDC Offers Contractors Free One-on-One Time with Construction Expert

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COLUMBUS, OH — Contractors with questions about a current project, bid, estimate, contract or other construction challenge will have an opportunity to get some answers during a free virtual session hosted by the Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC).

Ask the Construction Expert will be held Wednesday, August 12, from noon to 1:15 p.m. The session will provide contractors with private 15-minute consultations with an experienced construction professional.

Rather than another webinar or general presentation, Ask the Construction Expert is designed to give contractors individualized assistance with the issues they are facing in their businesses and on their projects.

Contractors can bring questions related to estimating and bidding, contracts, plans and specifications, project management, change orders, scheduling, subcontractor management, bonding and insurance, certifications, government contracting, cash flow, payment issues and other construction-related concerns.

How It Works

Five private appointments will be available between noon and 1:15 p.m.

Contractors will select an available 15-minute appointment when registering. On August 12, participants will join the Zoom meeting shortly before their scheduled appointment and remain in the waiting room until the construction professional is ready for them.

Each consultation will be private and focused on the individual contractor’s question or project.

Only Five Appointments Available

Ask the Construction Expert
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
12:00 PM – 1:15 PM EDT
Online via Zoom
Cost: FREE

Only five appointments are available and registration is first-come, first-served.

Contractors interested in participating are encouraged to reserve their appointment early.

Register for Ask the Construction Expert:
https://www.tickettailor.com/checkout/view-event/id/8811776/chk/ad1b293501f36d12969d21e1c321d54f/

Ask the Construction Expert is presented by the Ohio Business Development Center’s Construction Academy, which provides training, technical assistance and resources designed to help small contractors build stronger and more sustainable construction businesses.

For additional OBDC programs, training and business resources, visit OHBDC.org.

The Torch Room, LLC Earns OWCC Women-Owned Business Certification

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The Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce (OWCC), a program of the Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC), is proud to announce that The Torch Room, LLC has officially earned its OWCC Women-Owned Business Certification.

Founded by Erica Russell (Averette), The Torch Room is dedicated to helping individuals improve their physical and mental well-being through fitness, education, and community engagement. Since opening in 2020, the business has inspired healthier lifestyles by combining movement, mindset, and wellness education into programs that encourage lasting change.

The Torch Room offers fitness classes, wellness workshops, educational seminars, and community events designed to help adults build healthier habits, reduce preventable health conditions, manage everyday stress, and improve their overall quality of life. Its holistic approach reflects the belief that caring for your physical and mental health is one of the greatest forms of self-love.

“Women-owned businesses are transforming communities through innovation, leadership, and service,” said Ronda Watson Barber, Founder of the Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce. “We’re excited to welcome The Torch Room to our growing network of certified women-owned businesses and celebrate the impact Erica Russell (Averette) is making through wellness and community empowerment.”

The OWCC Women-Owned Business Certification recognizes independently owned, operated, and controlled women-owned businesses while connecting them with opportunities for increased visibility, networking, education, and business growth.

About The Torch Room, LLC

Founder/Owner: Erica Russell (Averette)

Industry: Health • Wellness • Fitness

Founded in 2020, The Torch Room helps adults prioritize their physical and internal well-being through fitness classes, workshops, educational seminars, and community wellness events. By blending physical movement, mental resilience, and educational coaching, The Torch Room empowers individuals to become the healthiest version of themselves.

Become OWCC Certified

The Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce invites eligible women-owned businesses throughout Ohio to join the growing community of OWCC Certified businesses. Certification provides recognition, increased visibility, networking opportunities, educational resources, and access to business development programs through the Ohio Business Development Center.

Learn more and apply for certification at WomenInOhio.com/Certification.

HH&M Masonry Earns OWCC Women-Owned Business Certification

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The Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce (OWCC) is proud to welcome HH&M Masonry as one of Ohio’s newest OWCC Certified Women-Owned Businesses.

Led by Cathy Holloway, President, HH&M Masonry has built a reputation for delivering exceptional masonry and construction services throughout Ohio. From commercial and institutional projects to renovations, additions, and demolition, the company is known for quality craftsmanship, dependable service, and a commitment to getting the job done right.

Based in Columbus, Ohio, HH&M Masonry specializes in:

  • Brick, block, and stone masonry
  • Commercial and institutional construction
  • Building additions and renovations
  • Demolition services

HH&M Masonry also holds several respected certifications, including EDGE, FBE, LEDE, DBE, SBE, and WBE, demonstrating the company’s commitment to excellence and expanding opportunities throughout Ohio’s construction industry.

The OWCC Women-Owned Business Certification recognizes companies that are woman-owned, operated, and committed to growing Ohio’s economy through entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership. Certified businesses gain increased visibility, networking opportunities, educational resources, and access to programs designed to help them grow.

“We’re excited to welcome HH&M Masonry to the OWCC community,” said Ronda Watson Barber, Founder of the Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce. “Women-owned construction companies continue to make an incredible impact across Ohio, and we’re proud to recognize Cathy Holloway and her team for their leadership and dedication to excellence.”

Please join us in congratulating Cathy Holloway and the entire HH&M Masonry team on achieving their OWCC Women-Owned Business Certification.

Learn more about HH&M Masonry:
📍 1612 Old Leonard Avenue, Columbus, OH 43219
📞 (614) 302-2610
📧 cathy@hhmohio.com
🌐 hhmmasonry.com

Interested in becoming OWCC Certified?
Join Ohio’s growing network of certified women-owned businesses and gain access to cash, contracts, and connections. Learn more at WomenInOhio.com.

Ask the Construction Expert: Private Construction Consultations for OBDC Members

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Need help with a construction project? Get expert advice—one-on-one.

Every contractor runs into questions that can’t always be answered with a Google search. Whether you’re preparing a bid, reviewing a contract, pricing a project, or trying to solve a jobsite challenge, sometimes you need to talk with someone who’s been there.

The Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) is introducing Ask the Construction Expert, a new member benefit designed to give contractors direct access to experienced construction guidance through private 15-minute virtual consultations.

Unlike a traditional webinar, these are scheduled one-on-one appointments focused entirely on your business and your project.

Bring Your Questions About:

  • Preparing estimates and bids
  • Construction contracts
  • Reading blueprints and specifications
  • Responding to RFPs
  • Project management
  • Change orders
  • Working with subcontractors
  • Bonding and insurance
  • Government contracting
  • Business certifications
  • Cash flow and payment issues
  • Other construction-related challenges

Whether you’re just starting your construction business or managing multiple projects, you’ll receive practical advice that can help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

How It Works

After registering, you’ll select an available 15-minute consultation appointment.

At your scheduled time, you’ll meet privately with an experienced construction professional via Zoom to discuss your questions. While another consultation is taking place, you’ll remain in the Zoom waiting room until your appointment begins.

To ensure every participant receives dedicated attention, only five consultation appointments are available for this session.

Event Details

Ask the Construction Expert
Wednesday, August 12, 2026
12:00 PM – 1:15 PM EDT
Online via Zoom

Free for OBDC Members

Appointments are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Reserve your consultation today! Reserve your spot!

The August 3 OhioMBE Weekly is live

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OhioMBE Weekly | August 3, 2026

The

OhioMBE Weekly

Cash • Contracts • Connections

August 3, 2026  |  A publication of The 912 Group  |  Publisher: Ronda Watson Barber

Welcome to the OhioMBE Weekly—contracting opportunities, business news, training and advocacy for Ohio’s small, minority-owned and women-owned businesses.

Inside This Week’s Issue

  • Two CMHA contracting opportunities
  • Publisher’s Note: The $40 Million Question
  • Three August business-building classes
  • OWCC certified women-owned businesses
  • Save the date for the 2026 OhioMBE Awards

Contracts

CMHA Seeks Database Software Proposals

CMHA is accepting proposals for RFP No. 2026-023—Database Software. Technology firms offering database systems and related services are encouraged to review the solicitation.

Pre-proposal conference: August 3 at 2 p.m.

Proposal deadline: August 13 at 11 a.m.

Review the Opportunity

CMHA Seeks Property Management Services

CMHA is accepting proposals for RFP No. 2026-024—Professional Property Management Services.

Pre-proposal conference: August 11 at 10 a.m.

Proposal deadline: August 25 at 2 p.m.

Review the Opportunity

Publisher’s Note

The $40 Million Question

I’m not buying the idea that Columbus City Schools’ reported $40 million health-plan overpayment is simply the fault of one mid-level employee.

Where was the oversight? Who supervised the employee, monitored the consultant and reviewed the financial reports? When did district leadership and the Board learn there was a problem?

Identifying one employee is not accountability. The superintendent and Board must explain how this happened, what safeguards failed and what is being done to recover the money.

Read the Publisher’s Note

Upcoming OBDC Classes

The Ohio Business Development Center hosts practical online classes designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses, prepare for opportunities and make better business decisions.

Business Etiquette

August 11 at 11:30 a.m. • Online

Nicki Stanley shares practical guidance on communication, networking and professional presence.

Certification 101

August 18 at 11:30 a.m. • Online

Understand business certifications, including the new OWCC Women-Owned Business Certification.

Building a Strong Online Presence

August 25 at 11:30 a.m. • Online

Meg Corso covers websites, digital branding, social media and online visibility.

Register for OBDC Classes

Join OBDC

Business Support for Just $25 a Year

OBDC members receive access to the online Training Library, business support, contracting opportunities and free admission to many OBDC classes.

Become an OBDC Member

Women in Business

OWCC Certified Business Directory

OWCC Women-Owned Business Certification recognizes businesses that are at least 51 percent woman-owned, operated and controlled. Certified businesses receive an online directory listing, promotional visibility and connections to organizations seeking women-owned suppliers.

Meet five OWCC Certified businesses that are visible and ready to connect:

  • All League Sports
  • Coffico African Beauty & Fashion
  • HH&M Masonry
  • High Maintenance Lifestyle
  • The Keys Etiquette Consulting
Search the Directory Apply for Certification

2026 OhioMBE Awards

Be in the Room on October 22

The 2026 OhioMBE Awards will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Huntington Park. Attendance is limited to 325 guests. Partnerships, tables and tickets are available.

Presented by OBDC. Proceeds support programs serving Ohio small businesses.

Explore the Awards

This Week’s Black Business Challenge

Buy from a Black-owned business. Make a referral. Share an opportunity. Black Business Month should produce more than recognition—it should produce cash, contracts and connections.

OhioMBE

Ohio’s largest Black-owned business newspaper, serving Ohio’s small-business community since 2009.

OhioMBE.com  •  614-522-9122

Save the Date: 2026 OhioMBE Awards Set for October 22 at Huntington Park

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COLUMBUS, Ohio — Mark your calendar for one of Ohio’s premier celebrations of small business excellence.

The 2026 OhioMBE Awards will take place on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at Huntington Park in downtown Columbus. Presented by the Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC), the annual awards recognize the entrepreneurs, corporations, public agencies, and community leaders who are helping create greater economic opportunity across Ohio.

Each year, the OhioMBE Awards bring together business owners, corporate executives, elected officials, supplier diversity professionals, and community partners for an inspiring afternoon of recognition, networking, and celebration.

This year’s theme is:

Celebrating Excellence. Building Legacies. Driving Impact.

The event honors individuals and organizations that have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation, advocacy, and commitment to supporting Ohio’s small business community.

More than an awards luncheon, the OhioMBE Awards serve as a fundraiser supporting the mission of the Ohio Business Development Center. Proceeds from the event help fund OBDC’s programs and services that provide entrepreneurs with access to business education, certifications, procurement opportunities, mentoring, and capital resources throughout the year.

“We believe that when small businesses succeed, our communities thrive,” said Ronda Watson Barber, founder of the Ohio Business Development Center and publisher of OhioMBE. “The OhioMBE Awards celebrate the people and organizations that are opening doors, creating opportunities, and investing in the future of Ohio’s business community.”

Tickets are now available, and early reservations are encouraged as seating is limited.

Event Details

2026 OhioMBE Awards
Thursday, October 22, 2026
Huntington Park
Columbus, Ohio

Presented by: Ohio Business Development Center

Tickets: OHBDC.org

Whether you’re a business owner, corporate leader, government agency, community partner, or supporter of entrepreneurship, the 2026 OhioMBE Awards promises to be an unforgettable celebration of excellence and impact.

Save the date and join us as we honor those who are building a stronger business community across Ohio.

Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority Seeks Proposals for Professional Property Management Services

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The Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) has issued RFP 2026-024 seeking qualified firms to provide Professional Property Management Services.

The solicitation presents an opportunity for experienced property management companies to compete for services supporting one of Ohio’s largest public housing agencies.

Proposal Details

  • RFP: 2026-024 – Professional Property Management Services
  • Proposal Deadline: Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.
  • Pre-Proposal Conference: Monday, August 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
  • Location: Microsoft Teams

The Teams Meeting ID is available by visiting www.cmhanet.com or by contacting the CMHA Purchasing Department.

Contact Information

Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority
Purchasing Department
880 E. 11th Avenue
Columbus, OH 43211
Phone: (614) 421-4433
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

OhioMBE encourages qualified minority-owned, women-owned, and disadvantaged businesses with property management experience to review the solicitation requirements and submit a proposal before the deadline.