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.

INVITATION TO BID
Q24002 

The Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority at 100 West Cedar Street, Akron, Ohio 44307 will receive sealed bids until 2:00 p.m. local time on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at which time and place bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for: 

LAWN CARE MAINTENANCE SERVICES LANDSCAPE ENHANCEMENTS AND RELATED WORK AT VACANT SCATTERED SITES, ADA UNITS WITHIN SUMMIT COUNTY, OHIO 

A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held on Tuesday, February 27, 2024 at @ 2:00 p.m. 

Specifications can be purchased at SE Blueprint, 540 South Main Street, Suite 211, Akron, Ohio 44311. (330) 376-1689 or at seblue@seblueprint.com 

To be considered Bids must be received by AMHA no later than 2:00 p.m. (local time) on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Questions contact Michele Kindler, Assistant Contracting Officer at 330-376-7792. 

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

INVITATION TO BID B24004 

The Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority at 100 West Cedar Street, Akron, Ohio 44307 will receive sealed bids until 2:00 p.m. local time on Wednesday, March 20, 2024 at which time and place bids will be publicly opened and read aloud for: 

Janitorial Services & Related Work at AMHA Service Center 1159 Exeter Road, Akron, Ohio 44306 

A Pre-Bid Meeting will be held on Thursday, March 7, 2024 at @ 2:00 p.m. at the AMHA Service Center, 1159 Exeter Road, Akron, Ohio 44306 

Specifications can be purchased at SE Blueprint, 540 South Main Street, Suite 211, Akron, Ohio 44311. (330) 376-1689 or at seblue@seblueprint.com 

To be considered Bids must be received by AMHA no later than 2:00 p.m. (local time) on Wednesday, March 20, 2024. Questions contact Michele Kindler, Assistant Contracting Officer at 330-376-7792. 

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 

WHO: Franklin County Ohio Current Bid

PROJECT NAME: RFP # 2023-11-52 Moving, Cleaning & Pest Control Services for Franklin County 

DATE AND TIME OF PROPOSAL OPENING: MARCH 14, 2024, AT 3:00 PM EST

SUMMARY OF PROJECT/PROPOSAL: The Franklin County Board of Commissioners is seeking proposals on behalf of the Franklin County Office on Aging for Moving, Cleaning and Pest Control Services.

Additional Information: All amendments and clarifications will be posted on the County’s – Purchasing Department website at:  http://purchasing.franklincountyohio.gov/businesses/bid-opportunities/ 

Interested parties shall have the sole responsibility to monitor the Purchasing Department website for all amendments and clarifications.  

Pre-Proposal Conference Date/Time: February 22, 2024, at 11:30 AM EST

All Questions Should Be Directed To:

Laura Kattner, Contract Specialist
Franklin County Purchasing Department 
Email address: lmkattner@franklincountyohio.gov
Phone: 614.525.5457

Written Question Deadline: February 29, 2024, 12:00 PM EST

Franklin County Board of Commissioners:

Kevin L. Boyce, President 
John O’Grady, Commissioner
Erica C. Crawley, Commissioner

Are you ready to take your business to new heights? 🚀 Join us for an empowering three-day workshop tailored specifically for minority-owned businesses like yours! Led by industry experts, this virtual event promises insights, strategies, and resources to propel your success.

Here’s what you can expect:

1️⃣ Leverage Your MBE Certification: Discover the power of your Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) certification and how it opens doors to financing. 

2️⃣ Explore State and Federal Loan Programs: Navigate the landscape of state and federal loan programs designed to support minority-owned businesses during these challenging times.

3️⃣ Mastering Real Estate Investment: Learn the ins and outs of real estate investment, from finding the right properties to securing financing and maximizing returns.

This isn’t just another webinar — it’s a game-changer for your business! 💼 Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity to network, learn, and grow.

📅 When: Feb. 20, 21, & 22. beginning at 6 pm

📍 Where: Online – Register at OHBDC.org

Secure your spot today and let’s pave the way for your business success together!  #MBE #Entrepreneurship #Workshop #SmallBusiness #Opportunity

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
P24002

The Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority at 100 West Cedar Street, Akron, Ohio 44307 will receive sealed proposals until 4:00 p.m. local time on Thursday, March 14, 2024 for:

Emergency Recovery Services and Related Work as needed at various
AMHA locations in Summit County.

Those interested in submitting a proposal may obtain the instructions/information package by contacting SE Blueprint, 520 South Main Street, Suite 2411, Akron, Ohio  44311.   (330) 376-1689   akron@seblueprint.com

An email link for the above mentioned instructions/information 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.  

Proposals, to be considered, must be received by AMHA no later than 4:00 p.m. (local time) on Thursday, March 14, 2024. Questions contact Carla Horton, Contracting Officer at 330-376-7128.

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

We’re excited to invite you to join us for today’s Corporate Transparency Act online class, presented by the Small Business Legal Aid as a part of OBDC’s Black History Month Empower & Build initiative.

This session promises to be both informative and engaging, providing valuable insights into the implications and applications of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) for businesses like yours. The CTA, recently passed into law, aims to enhance transparency in corporate ownership and combat financial crimes such as money laundering and terrorist financing.

During this session, our expert speakers will delve into the key provisions of the Corporate Transparency Act, offering practical guidance on how to ensure compliance and navigate its impact on your business operations. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, this class is designed to equip you with the knowledge and tools necessary to thrive in today’s regulatory landscape.

OBDC hopes to engage 50 small businesses, particularly construction companies, during February 2024. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to be a part of this empowering initiative.

Reserve your spot now at OHBDC.org. We look forward to your participation and lively discussion.

🌟 Join us this week for empowering events as part of our Build & Empower Black History Month training program! 🌟

📅 Here’s what’s coming up:

1️⃣ Unlocking Profitable Bidding: Estimating Strategies 🗓️ February 13, 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM 📍 New Albany Public Library 🔗 Register now: Unlocking Profitable Bidding Event Link

2️⃣ OhioMBE Procurement Fair 🗓️ February 14, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM 🔗 More info: OhioMBE Procurement Fair Event Link

3️⃣ Certification 101 🗓️ February 15, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM 💻 Online Event 🔗 Register here: Certification 101 Event Link

4️⃣ Decoding the Corporate Transparency Act: Navigating Compliance with Ease 🗓️ February 15, 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM 💻 Online Session 🔗 Secure your spot: Decoding the Corporate Transparency Act Event Link

Don’t miss out on these incredible opportunities to boost your business and network with fellow entrepreneurs. Visit OBDC’s ticket page for more details and to reserve your spot!

See you there! 💼✨ #OBDC #BusinessEmpowerment #Networking #BlackHistoryMonth #SmallBusinessGrowth

As a small business owner, staying on top of legal requirements is paramount to ensuring your business thrives in a competitive environment. The Corporate Transparency Act has introduced new reporting requirements for LLCs and corporations, making it crucial for business owners to understand these changes to remain compliant and avoid hefty fines.

We’re excited to offer an online webinar that will provide you with the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate these changes confidently. Our professional legal team, experienced in corporate law, will guide you through every aspect of the Corporate Transparency Act, including:

• Understanding the Corporate Transparency Act: Get a clear overview of what the Act entails and how it impacts your business.
• Beneficial Ownership Information Report: Learn how to accurately report your beneficial ownership as required by the Act.
• Civil and Criminal Penalties: Understand the penalties for non-compliance and how to avoid them.
• $500 Per Day Fines: Discover strategies to avoid the significant daily fines for failing to comply.
• Legal Compliance: Ensure your business meets all legal requirements to operate smoothly.
• Expert Legal Assistance: Benefit from professional advice to navigate the complexities of the Act.
• Updating Your LLC or Corporation: Learn how to update your business information to meet the new requirements.

This webinar is more than just a learning session; it’s an opportunity to engage with legal experts, share your concerns, and shape the future of legal compliance for small businesses. By the end of the session, you’ll feel empowered with the knowledge to update your business practices and stay ahead of any legal challenges. Click the Training Link to register

Are you ready to elevate your estimating game? Join us on February 13th for an exclusive class led by James Jones, a seasoned contractor known for his successful projects and practical approach. This is a unique opportunity to gain real-world insights into the world of construction estimating.

James brings his extensive field experience to the classroom, offering not just theories but actionable tips that can help you improve your accuracy and efficiency. Whether you’re a new contractor or a seasoned professional looking to sharpen your skills, this class is tailored to give you the competitive edge in the industry.

The class will cover key aspects of estimating, including understanding costs, labor, and materials, as well as the latest industry software and tools. You’ll learn to anticipate and mitigate challenges that can affect your bottom line, ensuring that you’re prepared for success in every bid you make.

Don’t miss out on this invaluable experience to learn from one of the best in the business. Reserve your spot today and take the first step towards mastering the art of estimating!

Seats are limited, so early registration is encouraged.

Details:

• Date: February 13th
• Location: New Albany Public Library
• Time: 5:30 to 7 pm
• Registration: https://buytickets.at/OBDC