Small Business Resource Event Empowers Entrepreneurs for Second Consecutive Year

Local entrepreneurs gathered at the OCLC Conference Center in Dublin, Ohio for the second consecutive Seeds for Growth Small Business Resource Event, a powerful collaboration sponsored by Huntington National Bank and hosted by the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. Building on the success of its inaugural year, the highly anticipated event delivered actionable insights, capital opportunities, and a marketplace designed to accelerate small business growth. 

A major highlight of the day was the interactive Retail and Resource Marketplace. To further support local enterprises, attendees were gifted dedicated funds upon arrival to spend directly with vendors in the marketplace. This initiative drove immediate economic impact for the participating small businesses while fostering engagement between resource providers and attendees. 

The event, led by Abiona Harper, Programming and Membership Specialist at the Columbus Chamber, featured a robust lineup of breakout sessions. Entrepreneurs gained knowledge on high-growth topics. 

In addition to the technical workshops, the event featured an inspiring keynote address that shifted the focus to founder’s wellness. Kristen Peairs of Leap Ah-ha Coaching, challenged attendees to pause, explore their current emotional landscape, and experience a mindset “refreshing.” The address provided entrepreneurs with the mental tools needed to renew their passion and approach their business ventures with clarity and vitality. 

Beyond the educational content, attendees enjoyed lunch, vibrant networking opportunities that sparked meaningful professional connections, and multiple raffle drawings featuring $100 gift card giveaways. The continued collaboration between HNB and the Columbus Chamber underscores a shared, long-term commitment to fueling the local economic ecosystem by equipping small business owners with the tools, capital, and community they need to thrive. 

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About the Columbus Chamber of Commerce: The Columbus Chamber of Commerce is a mission-driven nonprofit organization that serves more than 2,600 organizations across the Columbus Region. Founded in 1884, the Chamber serves as a strategic partner to the region’s businesses. We convene the community, advocate as the active voice for business, and navigate the insights, connections, and solutions that drive prosperity and growth. The Chamber provides an interconnected ecosystem where businesses collaborate to eliminate barriers to success, creating a vibrant environment for enterprises throughout the region. Together, we make our region an exceptional place to do business. Learn more: columbus.org.