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Small Business Advisory Council

The Small Business Advisory Council is a dynamic group of business leaders and industry experts from across the state, who come together to champion the success of small businesses in Ohio.

This diverse council leverages its collective expertise to shape initiatives that empower small businesses to thrive, fostering innovation, economic opportunity, and resilience in every corner of the state.

JobsOhio believes in the importance of small businesses and recognizes the vital role they play in building strong communities and driving Ohio’s economic growth. In partnership with the Small Business Advisory Council, JobsOhio is focused on supporting the needs of Ohio’s growing small businesses and their owners.

The council’s role includes:

  • Providing guidance: Serving as a trusted advisor to JobsOhio on small business strategies.
  • Driving engagement: Building relationships and connections that strengthen Ohio’s small business ecosystem.
  • Promoting resources: Raising awareness about programs like the JobsOhio Small Business Grant and other key initiatives.
  • Enhancing programs: Delivering feedback to refine and improve support for small businesses.

Through these efforts, the Small Business Advisory Council ensures Ohio’s small businesses have the tools, resources, and opportunities they need to grow and succeed.

J.P. Nauseef standing with two men smiling at an event
A group of 6 professionals smiling together at an event

Upcoming Events

  • Jan. 27–29: Dayton Lightship Bootcamp
  • Feb. 3–5: Athens Lightship Bootcamp
  • May 27–29: Columbus Lightship Bootcamp
  • May 29: Lightship Showcase
  • June 2–4: Cincinnati Lightship Bootcamp
  • July 16–18: Black Tech Week, Cincinnati
  • Sept. 2–4: Toledo Lightship Bootcamp
  • Oct. 14–16: Cleveland Lightship Bootcamp
  • Oct. 20–22: Youngstown Lightship Bootcamp

Current Members

  • Chair: Keena M. Smith, Founder & CEO, Women’s Center for Economic Opportunity
  • Vice Chair: Vacant
  • Jason C. Smith, Executive Director, Advancing Black Pathways, JP Morgan Chase
  • Eric Troy, Founder & CEO, Eficionado
  • Eric Kearney, President & CEO, Greater Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky African American Chamber of Commerce
  • Candice Brackeen, CEO, Lightship Foundation
  • Monica L. Womack, Chief, Minority Business Development Division, Department of Development
  • Ronald C. Todd II, Chief, Social Impact and Opportunity, Department of Development
  • Barb Smith, President, Journey Steel

JobsOhio Team Members

  • Terry Slaybaugh, Vice President, Sites and Infrastructure
  • Hannah Baumgartel, Program Manager, Sites
  • Kristi Tanner, Senior Managing Director
  • Jonathan Bridges, Managing Director
  • Darnita Bradley, Senior Manager, Local Government Affairs