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Start a Business
A business owner hangs an open sign on the door of his shop.

Start a Business

Follow these steps to start your journey as an entrepreneur in Ohio.

The 1st Stop Business Connection provides free state-level information needed to get started or continue on your entrepreneurial journey. 

Employees working on a project

Startup Guide

Review Starting Your Business in Ohio for guidance on choosing a legal entity (such as a corporation or limited liability company or LLC) and registering with the Ohio Secretary of State. You can also review employer requirements, business tax information, and more.

Employees looking at financial reports

Hiring Guide

We know you have questions when it comes time to hire employees for your business. Check out our guide to hiring your first (or next) employee for tips and guidance.

Checklists

Get started quickly with checklists that cover startup steps and state regulations for nearly 300 types of businesses. I you don't see your business listed here, contact your local Small Business Development Center (SBDC). 

Additional Assistance

Contact your local Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for hands-on assistance from trained and experienced business advisers. SBDCs offer one-on-one, confidential, and no-cost counseling to help with your business needs. Find the SBDC serving your community.

Learn about your tax responsibilities as an Ohio business at the Small Business Resource Hub from the Ohio Department of Taxation. You'll find information about getting an EIN, payroll taxes, sales and use tax and more.

The Ohio Secretary of State's office provides the Ohio Business Road Map. Find a list of steps to take and links to resources to help you complete each task.

Program Partners

Ohio Business Gateway, Common Sense Initiative, Ohio Department of Development, Ohio Secretary of State, Ohio Attorney General, and Ohio Treasurer.

SBA logo   Ohio Small Business Development Centers

Disclaimer

The Ohio Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Program is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. The SBDC Program is also funded in part by the Ohio Department of Development. All services are extended to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Language assistance services are available for limited English proficient individuals. Reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the SBDC at sbdcreports@development.ohio.gov.

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