NWSCC to host Entrepreneurship Forum

VW independent/submitted information

ARCHBOLD — Northwest State Community College celebrates the spirit of entrepreneurship and the power of small businesses in hosting its 11th annual Entrepreneurship Forum from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, May 8, in the Voinovich Auditorium. This free event is open to all residents of Defiance, Fulton, Henry, Paulding and Williams counties who have a business idea and want help in moving it forward. 

The 2025 Entrepreneurship Forum provides budding entrepreneurs the opportunity to present their ideas to a panel of experts from the region, and to network with those experts — both very valuable experiences. Local economic development directors and lenders from the five-county area will make up the advisory panel. 

Thanks to grant funding by the Everyday Entrepreneurship Fund, and financial support from Premier Bank, every presenter will be able to receive (at minimum) funding for the registration fee to start a business in Ohio

“Northwest State, the Small Business Development Center, and economic development are joining forces to invigorate small business growth in Northwest Ohio,” said Lisa Becher, Northwest State business faculty member. “Small business is vital to our communities. We need entrepreneurs to keep our economy strong.”

Becher is also State of Ohio Small Business Development Center consultant for northwest Ohio and a local business owner. She has created a “semi-Shark Tank style” event that helps aspiring business owners by removing barriers to market. 

“The forum was created to break down barriers and move entrepreneurs forward, helping them with an idea,” Becher noted. “Many people just don’t know what to do next and how to get started. This is a great opportunity to discuss your idea, get a start on your project and work with economic development and area lenders. 

“Past presenters have found this Forum experience invaluable, for networking, funding opportunities, and helping move their projects forward,” she added. “We are excited to work with the Everyday Entrepreneurship Fund and Premier Bank to offer entrepreneurs additional financial resources in helping to build our communities.”

People can register for the Entrepreneurship Forum by emailing Becher at lbecher@NorthwestState.edu orNWOhioSBDC@gmail.com. Registration is required for everyone and is free of charge. Space is limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged. 

“Free consultation services will be provided by the Small Business Development Center,” Becher said. Of note, a presentation template is required and is available by contacting Becher at the email addresses above.