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Empowering Women in Construction: A Recap of OBDC’s Inaugural Meeting

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The inaugural OBDC-Women in the Construction Industry meeting, hosted at the facilities of our construction ally, Kokosing Construction, marked a milestone event. A diverse group of women from throughout Ohio gathered to forge connections and exchange valuable resources. The highlight of the event was an engaging session with Josh Irwin from Kokosing, who enlightened attendees on collaboration opportunities with the company. Terri Wise, the esteemed outgoing Outreach Coordinator from Columbus City Schools, imparted her wisdom and motivated the entrepreneurs with her encouraging words. The sentiment of appreciation was echoed by a participant who remarked, “Wonderful event! Ronda, you did it again! Thank You.”

Ronda Watson Barber, the visionary leader and CEO of OBDC, shared her reflections on the gathering, “This is just the beginning. It was truly inspiring to see the solidarity among women and the powerful network being built. I’m deeply grateful for Kokosing’s unwavering support of our inclusion initiatives. This is the first of many. I am so inspired to witness women coming together and supporting one another. It was powerful. Many meaningful connections were made. I am thankful for the support of Kokosing. They are always supportive of my inclusion efforts.”

Stay tuned for the announcement of the next OBDC: Women in the Construction Industry meeting. Keep an eye on our website and follow us on social media to catch the latest updates!

Celebrate Women in Construction – Join Our Brown Bag Lunch Event at Kokosing

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Central Ohio is witnessing a historic construction boom, bringing unprecedented opportunities for growth and innovation in the field. In the spirit of fostering collaboration and empowerment among women in this dynamic industry, we are thrilled to invite you to the OBDC Women in Construction Brown Bag Lunch at Kokosing on Tuesday, March 21, 2024. This gathering is a perfect chance for women professionals in construction to network, share resources, and learn from each other’s experiences.

Why Attend?

  • Networking Opportunity: Connect with like-minded professionals and expand your network in the construction industry.
  • Share Resources: Exchange valuable information and resources that can aid in your professional growth.
  • Empowerment: Be part of a community that supports and uplifts women in construction, encouraging diversity and inclusion in the field.

Event Details

  • Date: Tuesday, March 21, 2024
  • Location: Kokosing, Central Ohio
  • Time: The networking lunch will begin at 12:00 PM. Please bring your own lunch.

This event is designed to provide a relaxed and supportive environment for women in construction to come together, discuss challenges, share successes, and build a stronger, more inclusive community. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out, your presence will contribute to a rich exchange of knowledge and experiences.

How to Participate

Ready to be part of this inspiring event? Mark your calendars and bring your lunch to Kokosing on March 21. Register at OHBDC.org

Let’s embrace this historic construction boom together, fostering an environment where women in construction can thrive and lead the way to a more inclusive and prosperous industry.

🌟 Exciting Learning Opportunities This Week with OBDC! 🌟

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Are you ready to take your business skills to the next level? This week, the Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) offers a series of enriching training events designed to empower entrepreneurs and small business owners. Dive into essential topics from certification processes to estate planning, contracts, and celebrating Women in the Construction Industry.

📆 Upcoming Highlights:

  • Certification 101 on March 12: Unlock the secrets of getting your business certified with local entities.
  • Understanding Estate Planning: Wills & Trusts for Entrepreneurs on March 21: Essential estate planning knowledge for securing your business’s future.
  • Contracts 101: The Language of Business on March 14: Learn the ins and outs of business contracts to protect and grow your business.
  • Special Women’s History Month Brown Bag Lunch on March 21: Celebrate Women in the Construction Industry with OBDC and Kokosing Construction.

📍 Don’t miss out on these invaluable sessions to boost your business acumen and network with like-minded professionals.

👉 Secure your spot now at https://www.tickettailor.com/events/obdc and be a part of Ohio’s vibrant business community.

March 11 OhioMBE Bid Board Unveils Fresh Opportunities

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This week, the OhioMBE Bid Board is brimming with opportunities for small and minority-owned businesses. We’re featuring bids across various sectors, including waste collection, emergency recovery, lawn care, and janitorial services. Each bid presents a chance to grow your business and make significant strides in your industry.

Moreover, the Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) is set to empower your entrepreneurial journey with a series of can’t-miss workshops. This March, enhance your business acumen with sessions on certification, contracts, and a special Women’s History Month Brown Bag Lunch. These workshops are designed to provide valuable insights, network opportunities, and the tools you need to succeed.

Stay ahead of the curve by visiting OhioMBE.com for full bid details and OBDC.org to register for the workshops. Let’s make this spring a season of growth and achievement for your business.

For more detailed information and to explore the full range of opportunities, please visit https://email.ohiombe.com/e8z3e5b1y2

CRAA issues bid notice for CMH Green Parking Lot Maintenance

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ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Columbus Regional Airport Authority
2024 CMH Green Parking Lot Maintenance
JOHN GLENN COLUMBUS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

The Columbus Regional Airport Authority values diversity and inclusion and the impact small and minority-owned firms have on the Central Ohio economy.  The Columbus Regional Airport Authority invites you to access the following link: www.columbusairports.diversitycompliance.com

to  register to do business with us and to view new bid opportunities and results. Email BusinessDiversity@ColumbusAirports.com for questions about the Diversity Programs at Columbus Regional Airport Authority.

CRAA issues bid notice for Park Garage Signage Replacement Phase 2

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ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS
Columbus Regional Airport Authority
Parking Garage Signage Replacement Phase 2 #23061
JOHN GLENN COLUMBUS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

The Columbus Regional Airport Authority values diversity and inclusion and the impact small and minority-owned firms have on the Central Ohio economy.  The Columbus Regional Airport Authority invites you to access the following link: www.columbusairports.diversitycompliance.com to  register to do business with us and to view new bid opportunities and results. Email BusinessDiversity@ColumbusAirports.com for questions about the Diversity Programs at Columbus Regional Airport Authority.

Leaping Towards Success: The Power of Certification in Elevating Minority Businesses

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As we find ourselves in a Leap Year, an extraordinary time that comes only once every four years, the Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) presents an equally rare opportunity for small and minority-owned businesses. Today, we spotlight a special initiative aimed at empowering these businesses through certification: the Leap Year Special for MBE, FBE, EDGE, and DBE certifications.

Why Certification Matters

In the competitive landscape of business, standing out is not just an option; it’s a necessity. Certifications such as Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Female Business Enterprise (FBE), Encouraging Diversity, Growth, and Equity (EDGE), and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) provide businesses with a valuable edge. They open doors to government contracts, increase business visibility, and foster networking opportunities with larger corporations seeking to diversify their suppliers and partners.

The Leap Year Special: A Golden Opportunity

Recognizing the critical role certifications play in leveling the playing field, OBDC’s Leap Year Special offers an unprecedented opportunity. For today only, the Certification 101 class, aimed at guiding businesses through the certification process for MBE, FBE, EDGE, or DBE, is available at the special price of $2.29. This initiative underscores OBDC’s commitment to making business growth accessible and affordable.

What You’ll Learn

The Certification 101 class, held online at 11:30 AM, is more than just an informational session. It’s a roadmap to unlocking the potential of your business. Participants will learn:

  • The Benefits of Certification: Understand how being certified can elevate your business, from increased exposure to new markets to eligibility for public and private sector programs.
  • The Certification Process: Get a step-by-step guide on how to apply for MBE, FBE, EDGE, and DBE certifications, including tips for a successful application.
  • Leveraging Your Certification: Discover strategies to make the most of your certification status, including how to market your business effectively and connect with potential clients.

Take the Leap

This Leap Year, let’s take a leap towards success together. The OBDC Leap Year Special is more than a promotional offer; it’s a catalyst for change, growth, and empowerment for small and minority-owned businesses. By equipping these enterprises with the tools, knowledge, and certifications they need, we’re not just building businesses; we’re building a stronger, more diverse economy.

Register Now

Don’t miss this once-in-a-four-year opportunity. Register for the Certification 101 online class today at OHBDC.org and begin your journey towards certification and business success. Let’s leap forward, together.

OBDC Launches Empowering Business Classes for March 2024

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The Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) proudly announces a dynamic series of educational classes tailored for entrepreneurs and small business owners, set to commence this March 2024. With a focus on essential business skills and knowledge, OBDC’s curriculum is meticulously designed to support business growth and operational excellence.

Highlighted Classes:

  • March 5: Dive into “Writing a Great Capability Statement,” a guide to crafting impactful business presentations.
  • March 7 & 12: “Certification 101” will demystify the certification process, revealing how it can open doors for your business.
  • March 7: “Navigating the Corporate Transparency Act” offers insights into compliance with ease.
  • March 14: “Contracts 101” explores the nuances of business contracts, ensuring you’re well-prepared to handle legal agreements.
  • March 21: Celebrate Women’s History Month with a “Special Brown Bag Lunch,” a networking event fostering connections among women entrepreneurs.

Empowerment Through Education:

OBDC’s March classes are designed not just to educate but to empower entrepreneurs with the tools and confidence needed to navigate the complexities of modern business. From legal compliance to effective networking, each session aims to address the multifaceted challenges faced by today’s businesses.

Join Us:

We invite all aspiring and established entrepreneurs to join these sessions and step into spring with newfound knowledge and confidence. Spots are limited, and interest is high, so we encourage early registration to secure your place in these transformative classes.

For registration and more information, please visit OHBDC.org/training-schedule

Empower and Build: Final Class Highlights and Registration Details!

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Join us for the third and final class in the Empower and Build Creating Wealth series! Register now at OHBDC.org to secure your spot for this enlightening session.

Today’s Class Overview: Date: February 22 Topic: Real Estate and Inspection (Online) Time: 6 pm.

In this session, we’ll delve into the essentials of property management, real estate trends, and the crucial role of inspections in property investment. Our featured speakers include Jennifer Jones from Fathom Realty and James Jones from HCI Inspectors.

This series, part of our Black History Month celebration at the Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC), has been designed to empower minority and small business owners through the intricacies of real estate. It’s more than just a learning experience; it’s an opportunity to build connections, gain insights, and empower yourself in the dynamic field of real estate.

Don’t miss out on this chance to enhance your journey in building wealth through real estate. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting, these sessions are tailored to provide valuable knowledge and networking opportunities to support your business growth and personal development.

Register now at OHBDC.org and join us for the Empower and Build Creating Wealth series. Let’s take a significant step towards your success together!

Ohio Business Development Center Surpasses Goals, Empowers Black-Owned Businesses During Black History Month 2024

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The Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) proudly announces the successful achievement of its ambitious goal during Black History Month 2024: engaging 50 businesses, with a particular focus on Black-owned enterprises.

Throughout the month of February, OBDC spearheaded its Empower and Build Series, a comprehensive program designed to provide vital training and networking opportunities for businesses across Ohio. The series aimed to equip entrepreneurs, especially those from underrepresented communities, with the knowledge and resources essential for sustainable growth and success.

Under the insightful guidance of industry experts, participants had the opportunity to delve into various critical aspects of business management and development. From workshops on ‘Doing Business with Franklin County’ to ‘Real World Estimating Tips,’ ‘Certification 101,’ ‘Mastering Media and Press Releases,’ and ‘Creating Wealth Through Real Estate,’ the series covered a diverse range of topics crucial for entrepreneurial success.

“We are thrilled to announce the successful accomplishment of our goal to engage and empower 50 businesses, particularly those owned by members of the Black community,” said Ronda Watson Barber, Founder of OBDC. “At OBDC, we are committed to fostering an environment of inclusivity and opportunity, and the overwhelming response to our Empower and Build Series is a testament to the dedication and resilience of Ohio’s entrepreneurial spirit.”

With classes still scheduled throughout February, OBDC invites entrepreneurs to take advantage of these invaluable opportunities for growth and advancement. Interested individuals can register for upcoming sessions by visiting the OBDC website at OHBDC.org.

OBDC is sponsored by Franklin County, Columbus Zoo and Park National Bank.