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More than 50 businesses and service providers logged in for the recent ODOT DBE Recertification Session hosted by the Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC). The strong turnout reflects the urgency surrounding current DBE recertification requirements and the need for accurate, timely information.

The session featured Lorraine Stevens, who provided a wealth of information on ODOT’s updated DBE certification and recertification process. Attendees received practical guidance, clarification on key requirements, and insight into what firms should prioritize to remain compliant and competitive.

For those who were unable to attend live, the session was recorded and is available for viewing at OHBDC.org.

In addition, supporting materials and helpful resources related to the session are available in the OBDC Resource Folder:

📁 OBDC Resource Folder:
https://bit.ly/3MAq8Tj

OBDC remains committed to ensuring small businesses and service providers have access to trusted information, resources, and support as they navigate certification and contracting opportunities.

The Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) is hosting a FREE online informational session to help small businesses understand ODOT’s updated DBE certification rules and what they mean for firms seeking or maintaining certification.

This session is designed to break down the new requirements in plain language and help businesses avoid missteps that could delay or impact certification.

📅 Tuesday, December 16, 2025

🕦 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM EST

💻 Online (Zoom)

Hosted by the Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC)

Why you should attend:

• Learn what’s changed in ODOT’s DBE certification process
• Understand how the new rules may affect your business
• Get clarity on compliance, documentation, and next steps
• Avoid common mistakes that can slow approvals or trigger denials

This session is ideal for DBE-certified firms, businesses considering certification, and any company working on or pursuing ODOT-funded projects.

Registration is FREE.
Visit OHBDC.org for details and to register.

Stay informed. Stay compliant. Stay ready for opportunity.

Trades of Faith is hosting a Tool Drive to help young people launch successful careers in the skilled trades. We’re calling on our community to step up and support the next generation of builders, makers, and problem-solvers.

🔧 Donate New or Gently Used Tools
💵 Monetary donations are also welcome

Your contribution will support students training in essential fields, including:

• Concrete
• Electrical
• Plumbing
• PPE & Safety
• HVAC
• Carpentry
• Automotive

Every tool helps open a door. Every donation helps shape a future.

Learn more or support the drive at TradesOfFaith.org.

Let’s invest in our youth and strengthen our skilled-trade pipeline—together.

Strategic HR Planning for Optimized Project Delivery & Client Satisfaction**

OBDC is hosting a FREE online class tonight at 6 PM, and there’s still time to join.

This session will help small business owners strengthen their teams, improve communication, and run smoother projects. Whether you’re a contractor, service provider, or a growing entrepreneur, you’ll learn practical strategies you can use right away.

📅 Today — Thursday, Dec. 11

⏰ 6:00 PM (Online)

👉 Register: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/lvGcj94fTaKFAnr3Lgyqig

Join a diverse group of business owners for a real conversation about improving workflow, boosting client satisfaction, and building stronger internal systems.

Learn today. Apply it tomorrow.

Small business owners, don’t miss today’s FREE online class designed to help you close out your 2025 financials with confidence.

End-of-Year Tax Prep for Small Businesses

🗓️ Today
🕦 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM EST
💻 Online via Zoom

This session will walk you through how to organize your year-end documents, avoid common tax mistakes, and get prepared for a smoother filing season. It’s perfect for new business owners, sole proprietors, and anyone looking for extra guidance before tax time.

👉 Join the class by registering here:
https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/0N-OO3BbRXO5ICc5_G1sNg

Stay informed. Stay prepared. Stay connected with OhioMBE.

The December 2025 OhioMBE Procurement Fair is officially SOLD OUT!
Thank you to the many small businesses who registered for the final Fair of the year.

If you didn’t secure an appointment, you can still plug in and take advantage of the resources available on-site.

Franklin County Resource Pop-Up Fair

Franklin County will host a Resource Pop-Up Fair during the event, featuring B2B partners, business resource organizations, and support services for small businesses.
It’s a perfect opportunity to network, gather information, and connect with organizations that can help your business grow.

The Resource Pop-Up is free and open to the public, but registration is encouraged.

➡️ Register for the Resource Pop-Up:
https://form.jotform.com/242885475236063

Stay tuned to OhioMBE.com for upcoming events, news, and 2026 Procurement Fair dates!

The new OhioMBE Bid Board is out! This week’s edition is packed with fresh contracting opportunities, upcoming business trainings, and important public notices to help you stay informed and contract-ready.

🔹 New bid notices from CCS, Franklin County, and CMHA
🔹 A public notice on CMHA’s 2026 Agency Plan
🔹 Registration reminders for OBDC’s December classes
🔹 Updates for the December 18 OhioMBE Procurement Fair
🔹 Publisher’s Notes on CCS’ LEDE Program and supplier diversity
🔹 Plus: our Giving Tuesday thank-you and ways to continue supporting OBDC
🔹 And a spotlight on the new merry&Black holiday collection

Stay connected. Stay prepared. Stay in the loop.
Read the full Bid Board now at OhioMBE.com.

#OhioMBE #BidBoard #SupplierDiversity #SmallBusinessOhio #OBDC #ContractOpportunities #MinorityBusinessSupport

Wednesday, December 10
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM EST

Get your books in order before the year wraps! Join us for a helpful, straightforward session designed to make tax season easier for small business owners. We’ll cover what to prepare, what to avoid, and how to finish 2025 organized and confident.

Registration is FREE — sign up at OHBDC.org
Don’t wait… secure your spot and start the new year ahead of the game!

The Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) will host two online learning sessions on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, designed to support small business owners as they prepare for year-end reporting, tax readiness, and stronger operational planning heading into 2026.

These virtual classes are part of OBDC’s ongoing commitment to providing accessible, practical business education to Ohio’s small and minority-owned businesses.

End-of-Year Tax Prep for Small Businesses

Wednesday, December 10
11:30 AM – 1:00 PM EST
Online (Zoom)

This session will help business owners wrap up their 2025 financials, organize important documentation, avoid common tax mistakes, and prepare for a smoother filing season. Participants will receive guidance tailored to the needs of small companies and new business owners.

Strategic HR Planning for Optimized Project Delivery & Client Satisfaction

Wednesday, December 10
6:00 PM – 7:30 PM EST
Online (Zoom)

This class focuses on how intentional HR planning can improve team performance, strengthen workflow, and support better client outcomes—especially important for construction, service-based, and growing businesses. Attendees will learn how effective HR strategies directly impact project success and business reputation.

Registration

Class registration will open soon at OHBDC.org.

About OBDC

The Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting small and minority-owned businesses through training, consulting, certification support, construction education, and business development resources. OBDC helps entrepreneurs gain the skills and connections needed to build sustainable, successful companies.