📣 Exciting News! We’re thrilled to announce that the Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) now has an official fundraising page. Support minority and small businesses in Ohio by making a donation today. Every contribution helps us empower more entrepreneurs. Check it out: OBDC Fundraising Page 🌟
#OBDC #SupportSmallBusiness #EmpowerEntrepreneurs
This letter was emailed to City of Columbus Vendors regarding the cybersecurity breach
To our respected vendor and supplier contacts:
The City of Columbus (the “City”), recently discovered that it was the victim of a criminal cybersecurity incident that may trigger contractual notification obligations. Please note that an investigation is still ongoing to determine the full scope of this incident. For that reason, this notice is being provided as a courtesy in a good-faith effort to alert our vendors and suppliers. If during the continuing investigation it is discovered that your vendor data was accessed, we will provide an additional notice directly to you, pursuant to the notice obligations described in the agreements related to your services.
What Happened?
On July 18, 2024, the City discovered that it had experienced a cybersecurity incident, in which a foreign cyber threat actor attempted to disrupt the City’s IT infrastructure, in a possible effort to deploy ransomware and solicit a ransom payment from the City. The City’s continuing investigation of the cyber security incident has determined that the threat actor gained unauthorized access to the City’s technology infrastructure. Further discovery indicated the incident allowed the threat actor to view and access certain personal information, which may, or may not, include data in connection with certain vendor services. The incident was discovered expeditiously, cyber security experts were promptly retained, federal law enforcement was engaged, and proper security measures were conducted to contain the incident.
What Information Was Involved?
The information accessed by the threat actor included personal information of City employees, former City employees, residents of the City or other individuals including minors who may have interacted with the City, such as their first and last name, date of birth, address, bank account information, driver’s licenses, Social Security number, and other identifying information. More specifically, if you handle, store, or access any data in connection with the City, there is the potential those documents were accessed by the criminal threat actors and you may have legal duties to notify individuals whose information resided in documents of this ransomware attack.
What Are We Doing?
We take the protection of the data and information that we retain seriously and are taking steps to prevent a similar occurrence. Upon learning of the incident, the City’s Department of Technology quickly identified the threat and took action to limit potential exposure by severing internet connectivity and mobilizing a response team. The City engaged cyber security experts to provide expertise and guidance in navigating the incident, and while the threat actor’s activity was disrupted, an investigation is still ongoing to determine the full extent of the incident.
For More Information.
Vendors who believe they may have data impacted by this incident should go to www.columbus.gov/Services/Cybersecurity and access the Vendor tab for more information. For further questions or concerns, please email databreachteam@dinsmore.com.
Thank you for your immediate attention to this situation, as well as your understanding in the short-term. Please be assured that the security, safety and stability of our vendors, suppliers, employees, residents, and visitors, is of the utmost importance to us and is our top priority. While the investigation is still ongoing, we wanted to keep you informed and assure you that we will provide further updates as soon as more details are available. If we determine that your data or system has been affected in connection with this incident, or your organization has proprietary reporting requirements regarding incidents of this nature, we will follow up with you as necessary.
Regards,
The 10th Annual OhioMBE Awards People’s Choice Contest is here, and we’re thrilled to announce this year’s incredible nominees! These businesses represent the best of Ohio’s small business community, and now it’s your turn to help us decide who will take home the People’s Choice Award!
You can cast your vote once a day from October 11 through October 17. Your votes will determine who wins the People’s Choice Award, so make sure to support your favorite businesses every day!
Celebrate the hard work and dedication of these amazing businesses. Every vote counts!
#OhioMBEAwards2024 #PeoplesChoiceAwards #SupportSmallBusiness
Don’t miss your chance to attend the 10th Annual OhioMBE Awards on October 24, 2024 at Huntington Park! This exciting event brings together Ohio’s top business leaders, entrepreneurs, and advocates to celebrate diversity and business excellence.
🎉 Why Attend?
This is a once-a-year opportunity to be a part of Ohio’s premier small business event! Don’t wait until it’s too late—tickets are selling fast!
🎟️ Get your tickets now at OHBDC.org
📅 Event Date: October 24, 2024
📍 Location: Huntington Park, Columbus, Ohio
Bid Notice: RFP # 2024-46-31 Mediation Services
The Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, Division of Domestic Relations and Juvenile Branch, is seeking proposals from qualified mediator vendors to assist the Court’s Dispute Resolution Department with its caseload.
Proposal Opening Date:
November 6, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.
Project Summary:
The Domestic Relations Division handles cases involving domestic relations and juvenile citizens. It aims to provide equitable resolutions in matters involving families and children, such as divorce, legal separation, child support, parenting time, and domestic violence protection orders.
Additional Information:
All amendments and clarifications will be posted on the Purchasing Department website:
Franklin County Bid Opportunities
Interested parties are responsible for monitoring the website.
Written Question Deadline:
October 16, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. EST
Contact Information:
Email: smhernandez@franklincountyohio.gov
Phone: 614.525.3750
Franklin County Board of Commissioners:
Kevin L. Boyce, President
John O’Grady, Commissioner
Erica C. Crawley, Commissioner
Visit OhioMBE.com for more details.
🚨 FREE Promotion Alert! 🚨
Don’t miss out on a FREE opportunity to promote your business at the 10th Annual OhioMBE Awards! We’re offering you the chance to add your branded items to our 325 swag bags, which will be given to Ohio’s top entrepreneurs, business leaders, and decision-makers. 🎁
🔑 What to Include: Samples, promotional items, branded products – anything that showcases your business!
📅 Deadline: October 5, 2024
📍 Get involved today and reserve your spot at OhioMBEAwards.com
This is your chance to make your business stand out at Ohio’s biggest celebration of minority-owned, female-owned, veteran-owned, and family-owned businesses! 🌟
#OhioMBEAwards2024 #FreePromotion #SwagBagOpportunity #SupportSmallBusiness #CelebrateDiversity
Are you a small business owner facing legal challenges or simply have business-related legal questions? On Thursday, October 3rd, during lunchtime, OBDC and SBLA are offering the SBLA Virtual Business Law Clinic where you can meet with a business lawyer at no cost to discuss your concerns.
This is a fantastic opportunity to get the legal advice you need without the expense. Whether it’s contract issues, LLC formation, or general business law questions, our legal experts are here to help.
When: Thursday, October 3rd
Time: Lunchtime
Where: Virtual Clinic (via Zoom)
Cost: FREE (Spaces are limited)
How to Register: Visit OHBDC.eventbrite.com to reserve your spot.
Don’t miss out—secure your appointment today!
🏆 Nominations are Open for the 10th Annual OhioMBE Awards! 🏆
Do you know a business that deserves to be celebrated for its hard work and success? Nominate yourself or another deserving business for the OhioMBE Awards and join us in celebrating Ohio’s top minority-owned, female-owned, veteran-owned, and family-owned businesses. 🌟
Benefits of Nominating: ✅ Recognition: Showcase your business or someone else’s for their excellence in leadership, innovation, and community impact. ✅ Increased Visibility: Gain exposure to Ohio’s business leaders and potential new clients.
✅ People’s Choice Award: All nominated businesses are eligible to participate in the People’s Choice Awards, giving the public a chance to vote for their favorite businesses! ✅ Networking: Connect with other successful entrepreneurs, advocates, and community leaders.
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to get the recognition your business deserves!
📋 Submit your nominations today at OhioMBEAwards.com
📅 Event Date: October 24, 2024
📍 Location: Huntington Park, Columbus, Ohio
💯 100% of ticket sales benefit the Ohio Business Development Center, supporting small businesses across the state.
The Ohio Business Development Center (OBDC) is excited to offer a hands-on Estimating Class with industry expert James Jones, happening today at 6 PM. This 1.5-hour session is designed to provide contractors and construction professionals with the tools and strategies needed to improve project cost estimates and bidding accuracy.
Class Details:
Learn directly from an industry leader and gain valuable insights that will help you stay competitive in the construction market. Whether you’re new to estimating or looking to refine your skills, this class is an excellent opportunity for growth.
Space is limited, so register now at: OHBDC.org
Don’t miss this chance to elevate your estimating skills and grow your business!
The September 24 edition of the OhioMBE Bid Board is now live! This issue is packed with key contracting opportunities and important updates for Ohio’s small and minority-owned businesses.
OBDC and SBLA will offer no-cost legal consultations throughout October. Don’t miss this opportunity to receive expert legal guidance for your business!
We’re thrilled to spotlight Duane Parks, the recipient of the Frank W. Watson Advocacy Award. His dedication to supporting small and minority-owned businesses in Ohio is truly inspiring!
Don’t miss out on these incredible opportunities, resources, and community highlights. Get your FREE subscription to the OhioMBE Bid Board and stay up-to-date with the latest contracting opportunities, training sessions, and award updates.
Read the Latest Issue: Read the September 24 OhioMBE Bid Board
Please share this resource with other business owners who could benefit from these opportunities and insights.
Do you know an outstanding minority-owned business or advocate? Or are YOU that business? Now’s your chance to shine! 🌟
We are accepting nominations for the 10th Annual OhioMBE Awards, where we celebrate Ohio’s top small businesses and their advocates.
🏆 Nominate yourself or a great business today!
📋 Complete the nomination form at OhioMBEAwards.com
Don’t miss the opportunity to recognize excellence in business!
#OhioMBEAwards2024 #NominateNow #CelebrateExcellence #SupportSmallBusiness
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