Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne recently announced the establishment of the Cuyahoga County Office of Small Business. The new office, housed within the Department of Development, will provide tailored assistance and guidance to small business owners to help them navigate the business environment effectively. The goal is to ensure that these business owners have the necessary support to thrive and succeed.
According to Ronayne, supporting small businesses is crucial to the region’s economic sustainability and growth. With over 30,000 small businesses in Cuyahoga County employing nearly 300,000 residents and generating close to $18 billion in annual payroll, resources dedicated to supporting these businesses are essential. The Office of Small Business aims to attract more entrepreneurs to the area and maximize the opportunities available in the county’s cities and neighborhoods.
The office will facilitate connections and collaborations between businesses and various stakeholders, such as local chambers of commerce, trade associations, and industry leaders. By acting as a central hub for business owners, the Office of Small Business will help them expand their networks, grow their workforces, access financial opportunities, seek educational services, and benefit from peer support resources.
Vaughn Johnson, deputy director for economic development, emphasized that this new office is critical for providing much-needed resources dedicated specifically to supporting small businesses within the Department of Development. Johnson noted that this new office will focus on improving initiatives that enhance the experience of owning a small business in Cuyahoga County. This includes connecting new businesses with essential resources like capital opportunities and procurement and contracting services.
In summary, Ronayne’s announcement marks an important milestone in providing valuable support for small businesses in Cuyahoga County through a dedicated office that aims to help them succeed while contributing positively towards economic growth in the region.
