AEC Unites Business Mixer
2025-10-14 15:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Moody Nolan, 300 Spruce Street, Suite 300, Columbus, Ohio, 43215
Join us for our second annual AEC Unites Business Mixer, a celebration of leadership, talent, and innovation within architecture, engineering, and construction firms that are shaping a more inclusive and dynamic industry. This gathering brings together business owners, industry executives, and equity-minded leaders to foster strategic connections and open doors to meaningful collaboration.

2025 Imagine Forward 3rd Annual Conference Save-The-Date
2025-10-15 08:00 - 16:00 | The Conference Center at OCLC, 6600 Kilgour Pl, Dublin, Ohio, 43017
Imagine Forward 2025: Economic Engagement & Opportunity Conference brings together business leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and community stakeholders to explore bold solutions for economic growth. Presented by the Franklin County Office of Economic Equity & Community Development (EECD) team, this one-day convening will highlight strategies that expand access to opportunities, resources, and networks for every resident.

With dedicated tracks on Economic Engagement, Workforce Development, and Every Resident, Every Day, the conference will feature keynote speakers, dynamic breakout sessions, live performances, and a vibrant vendor marketplace. Attendees will gain actionable insights on procurement, supplier diversity, workforce pathways, housing, and community equity—while connecting with peers, partners, and innovators who are driving impact across Franklin County and beyond.

Whether you’re a small business owner, corporate leader, nonprofit advocate, or public sector partner, Imagine Forward 2025 is your chance to engage, collaborate, and commit to building an economy that works for all.

SAVE THE DATE

Second Annual State of Cancer Caucus & 513ReliefBus Cancer Awareness, Prevention and Education Health Expo
2025-10-15 09:00 - 14:00 | Urban League of Southwestern Ohio, 3458 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, Ohio, 45229
Hamilton County Commissioner, Alicia Reece, invites you to join us this year for the Second Annual Paint the County Pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. You can participate in the following ways on Wednesday, October 15, 2025:

Join us for our Annual Free State of Cancer & Call to action Event and Expo at the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio, 3458 Reading Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45229 starting at 9am with a Pink Reception, State of Cancer in Hamilton County presentation, fireside chat with our health and community leaders, special honors for breast cancer survivors and support groups, and our 513Relief Bus Health Expo with free screenings and critical health and economic resources.

AND/OR

Paint the County Pink Challenge: Wearing PINK on October 15th, Posting Photos on social media to show your support, Tagging Hamilton County and using #513PINK

How to Write a Business Plan
2025-10-15 15:30 - 17:30 | Ohio SBDC at Summit Medina Business Alliance, 526 S. Main St. Suite 601, Akron, Ohio, 44311
“How to Write a Business Plan” covers the importance and mechanics of writing the business plan, small business loans, and lines of credit.

Ohio SBDC at Summit Medina Business Alliance Bounce Innovation Hub Crooked River Room

Community Care Forum: Helping Families Thrive
2025-10-15 16:00 - 18:00 | Mattie B. James Center, 999 Crupper Ave, Columbus, Ohio, 43229
We’ll be discussing important updates to SNAP, Medicaid, and childcare benefits with Franklin County Job & Family Services. This is your chance to get answers, connect with resources, and make sure your family is prepared for upcoming changes.

What’s Included:

Updates on changes to SNAP, Medicaid, and childcare benefits

Dinner is provided

Q&A with county representatives and onsite caseworkers

Babysitting available

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, ask questions, and get connected.

Our Future, Our CCS: LAST CHANCE TO BE HEARD MOLER!
2025-10-15 18:00 - 19:30 | South High School, 1160 Ann Street, Columbus, Ohio, 43206
Vision for the 26 – 27 School Year! Moler Elementary School Boundary Map Meeting

Join us at South High School for the Moler Elementary School Community Meeting on October 15th to ask questions, share your thoughts, and get the information you need on how CCS is investing in your child’s education!

From Vision to Revenue: Build Your Growth Plan
2025-10-17 09:00 - 11:00 | Ohio SBDC at Lorain County Community College, 151 Innovation Dr, Elyria, Ohio, 44035
Ready to scale smarter? This hands-on workshop will help you align your business strategy with your long-term vision and build a repeatable sales system that doesn’t rely on hustle or referrals. Gain the clarity and tools you need to grow with confidence.

Define your growth focus

Build a sustainable sales engine

Stop reacting—start leading

Ohio SBDC at Lorain County Community College The Richard Desich Business and Entrepreneurship Center (DEC)

Coffee & Conversations - Virtual
2025-10-17 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Join us for a livestreamed event designed to empower Franklin County small businesses and entrepreneurs. During this engaging session, expert community partners will share resources, insights, and practical tools to help small businesses start, grow, and thrive. You’ll also hear inspiring success stories from local business owners as they share their journeys, lessons learned, and best practices for sustainable growth.

Use this link to watch live on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DfWj6fRKz/

Queens With Wings Royalty Run
2025-10-18 09:00 - 14:00 | Gahanna Swimming Pool, 148 Parkland Ave., Gahanna, Ohio, 43230
The Royalty Run event is a 1 mile and 2 mile run for athletes ages 5 and up. Funds generated from the event will offset the cost of scholarships awarded to female high track and field athletes that participate in a Queen with Wings Event. Awards will be given to the top ten finishers in each age division.

Donations are welcomed as well if you’re unable to participate.

How to Submit a Winning 2026 NSBW Submission!
2025-10-22 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Join this webinar to learn about the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) nomination categories, eligibility, submission documents, and tips for writing an award-winning nomination!

During the webinar, you will learn:

An overview of the National Small Business Week Awards.

The eligibility criteria for nominees.

How to prepare a compelling nomination package that stands out.

Tips for gathering the required documentation and telling a powerful story.

And participate in a Q&A session, answering all related questions.

The nomination submission deadline is Monday, December 8, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. EST.

Convos With Crawley & Wilson
2025-10-22 18:00 - 20:00 | Otterbein University Campus Center, 100 West Home St, Westerville, Ohio, 43081
Convos With Crawley is a community conversation series hosted by Commissioner Erica C. Crawley, currently serving as the president of the Franklin County Board of Commissioners and County Administrator Kenneth Wilson. Each month, we meet in a different neighborhood to connect directly with you — our neighbors — and talk through the issues that matter most.

What can you expect?

You can:

Ask President Crawley, and other leadership from across the BOC agencies, unfiltered questions about childcare, housing, jobs, human health services, and anything else on your mind.

Meet agency reps and local community partners

Get connected to real-time resources and support

Share your story, concerns, and ideas for change

Topics that often come up:

Access to mental health and addiction support

Early childhood education and Franklin County RISE

Reentry and housing help for justice-involved residents

Small business grants and mentorship

Resources for immigrant and refugee families

Food, transportation, and workforce development and more.

Why it matters:

We believe in bringing county government to the people. That means answering your questions, addressing barriers, and working together to make Franklin County a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Free and open to the public

No registration required but RSVP to submit a question & join our mailing list! Light refreshments provided

2025 OhioMBE Awards
2025-10-23 11:00 - 13:30 | Huntington Park, 330 Huntington Park Ln, Columbus, Ohio, 43215, United States
Join us for Ohio’s premier networking lunch celebrating the state’s top minority-owned businesses, female entrepreneurs, and supplier diversity champions. The OhioMBE Awards, presented by the Ohio Business Development Center, brings together business leaders, public officials, corporate buyers, and community advocates for an inspiring afternoon of recognition and connection.

✨ What to Expect

Awards Ceremony honoring outstanding small businesses and advocates

Networking Lounge for VIPs, sponsors, and corporate leaders

Vendor Tables featuring Ohio’s diverse small business community

Opportunities to connect with decision makers from government, education, and corporate sectors

This annual celebration is the perfect opportunity to build meaningful relationships, support supplier diversity, and be inspired by Ohio’s thriving entrepreneurial community.

🎟️ Tickets & Tables

Individual Tickets

Corporate Tables

Sponsorship Opportunities

Reserve your seat today and be part of this celebration of excellence in Ohio’s business community.

Final Countdown to the 2025 OhioMBE Awards Luncheon
2025-10-23 11:00 - 13:30 | Huntington Park, 330 Huntington Park Ln, Columbus, Ohio, 43215, United States
2 Days Out

OhioMBE Awards Luncheon

Thursday, October 23, 2025 • Huntington Park, Columbus, Ohio

Keynote Speaker

Jeanna Hondel, PE

President & CEO, Ascension Construction Solutions

Jeanna brings an engineer’s precision and a builder’s heart to supplier diversity and project delivery. Her keynote will spotlight practical, actionable pathways for small, minority, and women-owned firms to win, partner, and grow.

Publisher’s Award: Fortuna Bank

Recognized for steadfast support of small business growth and inclusive access to capital.

Frank W. Watson Advocacy Award: Felix Garcia

Director of Purchasing, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium — honored for championing supplier diversity and equitable procurement.

Legend’s Award: Smoot Construction

Celebrating a legacy of excellence, impact, and opportunity across Ohio’s built environment.

Reserve Your Logo On The Big Screen: Bernita@ohbdc.org

Franklin County to Participate in Prescription Drug Take-Back Day
2025-10-25 10:00 - 14:00 | Ohio
Bi-Annual Event To Take Place October 25 at Participating Locations Throughout The County

WHAT: Join SWACO and local law enforcement partners for National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, held annually in April and October. This event is conducted in partnership with communities throughout Franklin County at collection sites which provide families, residents and seniors a convenient and responsible way to dispose of unused or expired dry, prescription pills. The initiative also aims to educate the community about the potential for abuse of medications and how proper disposal of these materials can help to protect the environment and keep their families safe.

This event is free and open to any resident of Franklin County.

WHY: When you’re done with prescription medicine, it’s easy to forget about it as it sits unused in a drawer or medicine cabinet. But keeping unneeded medicine in the house can harm children, pets, teens and adults if accidentally ingested or misused. Properly disposing of medication also contributes to keeping our waterways and environment protected and healthy. The best option for safely disposing prescription medicines is at a prescription drug drop-off site.

WHEN: Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

WHERE: Please don’t put prescription drugs in the trash. Instead, residents can enter their zip code here enter their zip code here to find a nearby mobile collection site.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: In addition to prescription medicine, empty prescription bottles can be dropped off for recycling on Saturday at the Hilliard, Worthington, and Sharon Township police departments. Empty prescription bottles can also be dropped off year-round at SWACO’s Recycling Convenience Center Recycling Convenience Center at 2566 Jackson Pike.

SWACO also partners with communities across Franklin County to make permanent collection sites available. Visit the website Visit the website to learn more about the types of medications accepted and details on drop-off sites throughout central Ohio.

Paint & Praise
2025-10-25 11:00 - 13:00 | Trinity Baptist Church, 461 Saint Clair Avenue, Columbus, OH
Sisters in Service: Paint & Praise – RSVP by October 10th

Church Office: 614-258-9583

Our Future, Our CCS: Workshop Series
2025-10-27 18:00 - 2025-10-29 20:00 | Ohio
Bring your voice, your vision, and your values to help reimagine what’s possible for our district.

Dr. Angela Chapman and the Columbus Board of Education invite you to join us for interactive public town hall meetings with residents, parents, businesses, staff and students to discuss how to prioritize students in the classrooms while the District cuts its future budget. Topics will include the future of our buildings, college and career pathways, transportation and more.

Mon. Oct. 27 at 6:00 pm at South High School – 1160 Ann St., Columbus, OH 43206

Tues. Oct. 28 at 6:00 pm at West High School – 179 S Powell Ave., Columbus, OH 43204

Wed. Oct. 29 at 6:00 pm at Mifflin High School – 3245 Oak Spring St., Columbus, OH 43219

Doors Open at 5 p.m. | Program Begins at 6 p.m.Light refreshments will be prepared by Columbus Downtown High School Culinary Arts students.

These workshops feature:

Keynote presentation by Superintendent/CEO Dr. Angela Chapman

Interactive breakout sessions with school board members

Opportunities to talk with board members and district staff

Learn more about district needs, priorities, and share your feedback

This is more than a conversation; it’s a call to action. Make your voice heard to help Columbus City Schools build the best possible future for our students.

Elford Invites Bids for Franklin County Tenant Improvement Projects
2025-10-28 08:00 | Michael J. Dorrian Building, 369 S. High St, Columbus, Ohio, 43215
Elford, Inc. is seeking qualified subcontractors and suppliers — including certified Small & Emerging Business Enterprises (SEBEs) — to participate in the Franklin County PFM and Purchasing & EECD Tenant Improvements project.

Location: Dorrian Building, 369 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215 (Floors 7 & 8)

Bid Due: Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 2:00 PM

Start Date: December 15, 2025

Completion: July 10, 2026

This Construction Manager at Risk (CMR) project consists of two tenant fit-out projects for Franklin County offices. Bidders may submit for each project individually or provide a combined proposal if capable of completing both concurrently.

Available Bid Packages

Final Cleaning • Selective Demolition • Custom Millwork • General Trades • Storefronts/Glass & Glazing • Drywall & Acoustical • Flooring • Painting & Wall Coverings • Fire Suppression • Plumbing • HVAC • Electrical, Communications & Safety Systems

Project Requirements

20% SEBE participation goal

Prevailing wage rates apply

Tax exempt

Contractors must meet Franklin County’s “Quality Contractor” requirements (see Article 8 of ITB)

To obtain bid documents or for questions, contact: Aaron Daman – Elford, Inc. Email: adaman@elford.com

New Outreach Event: Columbus Airport New Terminal Project
2025-10-28 13:00 - 15:00 | Mid-Ohio Food Collective, 3960 Brookham Dr., Grove City, Ohio, 43123
Hensel Phelps and Elford Construction invite you to an In-Person Outreach Event for the Columbus Airport New Terminal Project – GMP 9 Public Safety Building Trade Partner Opportunities

Location: Mid-Ohio Food Collective, 3960 Brookham Dr, Grove City, OH 43123

Date: Tuesday, October 28, 2025

Time: 1:00 – 3:00 PM EST

RSVP by: Monday, October 27, 2025

Meet with Hensel Phelps, Elford, and Columbus Regional Airport Authority to learn about upcoming contracting opportunities for the new terminal project.

Network with large, medium, and small firms across a range of construction trades, including:

Site Civil • Steel • Concrete • Electrical • Plumbing • HVAC • Low Voltage • Masonry • Metal Panel • Roofing • Flooring • Fire Protection • Framing & Drywall • Paint • Glazing • Millwork • Landscaping • and more.

Featured Representatives:

Denise Gilliam, Director of Inclusion & Outreach, Elford

Marrae Bundy, Senior Specialist, Columbus Regional Airport Authority

Daniel Fils-Aime, Coordinator of Supplier Diversity, Hensel Phelps

All qualified subcontractors and suppliers are encouraged to attend.Subcontracts and purchase agreements over $100,000 will require Payment and Performance Bonds.

Bring a canned good donation to support the Mid-Ohio Food Collective.

OWCC "Think Pink" Breast Cancer Awareness Session - Online
2025-10-29 11:30 - 13:00 | Online, Zoom
Think Pink: Awareness, Action & Advocacy

The Ohio Women’s Chamber of Commerce (OWCC) invites you to join us for a powerful and inspiring online session during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

This virtual gathering will bring together healthcare professionals, survivors, and community leaders to share knowledge, encouragement, and resources. Together, we’ll highlight the importance of early detection and empower women to take charge of their health.

Event Details:

Date: Wednesday, October 29, 2025

Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM (EST)

Location: Online via Zoom

Cost: FREE (registration required)

What to Expect:

Medical Perspective: Learn about prevention, screenings, and risk factors

Survivor Spotlight: Hear real stories of strength and resilience

Resources & Support: Access local and national organizations for assistance

Interactive Q&A: Engage directly with speakers and get your questions answered

Small Business Orientation
2025-10-30 17:00 - 19:15 | Online
Have you ever considered starting a business? Just looking for information for “someday”? Are you confused about where to start? This session is for you! In this two-hour seminar, we will discuss resources available to you in Northeast Ohio, legal issues a new entrepreneur needs to be aware of, the business planning process, and some of the ways to fund a new venture. After attending this seminar, no-charge ongoing counseling is available by appointment to help you develop your idea either in person or virtually. We hope to see you there!

Registration will close on Tuesday, October 28th at 5:00 p.m. A Microsoft Teams invitation and other handouts will be sent on October 29th.

RECORDING OF THIS SESSION IS EXPRESSLY PROHIBITED.

Trinity Baptist Church - Trunk or Treat
2025-11-01 11:00 - 14:00 | Trinity Baptist Church, 461 Saint Clair Avenue, Columbus, OH
Food, Fun & Fellowship

Costumes Permitted

Trunk or Treat Volunteers Register in Church Office & Rear of Sanctuary

Be A Baller Network Presents a BOOK LAUNCH & Community Conversation
2025-11-06 17:30 - 19:30 | East High School, 1500 E. Broad Street, Columbus, OH, 43205
BAB Podcast Guest, Tim Brown, Author of Living The Legacy, Authentic Stories of Building A Lasting Impact

BAB Guest Reception 5:30 pm – 6:15 pm

Community Conversation With BAB Podcast Guest 6:30 pm

BOOK SIGNING Following Conversation

Certification 101
2025-11-11 11:30 - 12:30, 2025-11-13 18:00 - 19:30 | Ohio
Learn how to get your business certified to compete for government and corporate contracts. This popular class covers the benefits of certification, eligibility, and how to avoid common mistakes.

How to Submit a Winning 2026 NSBW Submission
2025-11-12 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Join this webinar to learn about the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) nomination categories, eligibility, submission documents, and tips for writing an award-winning nomination!

During the webinar, you will learn:

Join this webinar to learn about the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) nomination categories, eligibility, submission documents, and tips for writing an award-winning nomination!

During the webinar, you will learn:

An overview of the National Small Business Week Awards.

The eligibility criteria for nominees.

How to prepare a compelling nomination package that stands out.

Tips for gathering the required documentation and telling a powerful story.

And participate in a Q&A session, answering all related questions.

The nomination submission deadline is Monday, December 8, 2025, at 7:00 a.m. EST.

All SBA programs and services are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis.

OBDC Construction Academy: Winning Strategies for Subcontractor Bidding & Pre-Award Interviews
2025-11-12 18:00 - 19:30 | Ohio
Taught by Daniel Odion, P.E., PMPStand out and win more work! Learn how to submit strong bids, present your value with confidence, and build lasting relationships with primes and owners.

SBA Resources for Ohio Manufacturers
2025-11-13 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Calling all Ohio small manufacturers! Please join the SBA Ohio district offices for a presentation on SBA resources available to you, including:

SBA’s new MARC (Manufacturers Access to Revolving Credit) program

Working Capital Pilot program

SBA 504 fixed asset acquisition and refinance program

Onshoring Tools

The Made In America Manufacturing Initiative is here to help! Please register to attend this free webinar.

Introduction to Selling to the Federal Government
2025-11-14 10:00 - 11:30 | Online
Each year, our government spends billions of dollars on the procurement of goods and services from private firms. Learn how your business can meet the requirements to receive government contracts, either as prime contractors or subcontractors.

Rise & Thrive 2025 Professional Development Summit
2025-11-19 08:00 - 16:00 | Creekside Conference & Event Center, 101 Mill St, Suite 300, Gahanna, Ohio, 43230
2nd Annual RISE & Thrive Summit: Bringing Joy Back To Early Learning

The morning kicks off with a joyful welcome from our Summit hosts. Dr. Erica Womack, Founder & CEO of Idlewood & Company, Franklin County Board of Commissioners President, Erica Crawley, and Future Ready Five RISE Program Director Brittany Jackson will all set the stage for what the day holds and the current state of Franklin County RISE.

Next up, our participants will join moderator Emma Ginther and panelists Paula Bester, Koffi Edah, and Alexandra Gomez as they share real-world insights on how educators can thrive even during challenging times while creating positive learning environments for children and families.

OBDC Construction Academy: Developing Contract Scope for Effective Project & Program Delivery
2025-11-19 18:00 - 19:30 | Ohio
Taught by Daniel Odion, P.E., PMPA clear scope sets the foundation for success. Learn how to write detailed scopes of work that improve performance, reduce disputes, and keep projects on track.
