About Us
There’s something special happening at the Ohio Small Business Development Center in Springfield. And it’s gaining national attention.
2019 SBA Small Business Development Centers Innovation and Excellence Award Winner for Region V
(selected from among 101 SBDCs in Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota)
Our Vision
A thriving local economy powered by small businesses.
Our Mission
To provide the coaching and financing that small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs need to start, grow and sustain their business.
Belief Statement
At SBDC, Inc., we believe that small businesses are the heart of a thriving community. We are committed to empowering entrepreneurs with the guidance, tools, and resources they need to succeed. We believe in the power of collaboration, where local businesses support one another and grow together. Every business, regardless of size or stage, deserves access to personalized coaching and strategic financing to reach its full potential. We believe that by investing in small businesses, we can create a lasting, positive impact on Springfield’s economy and the lives of those who live and work here.
That means ...
We succeed if and only when our clients succeed.
Our core principles
In other words, this is how we roll.
Entrepreneurial Spirit.
To earn the trust and full engagement of entrepreneurs, we must embody the very essence of entrepreneurship in how we think, act and communicate. Authenticity is key- our actions and mindset should reflect the boldness and innovation we champion. Bureaucracy and playing it safe? That's not our style. We thrive on dynamic thinking, calculated risk-taking, and leading with purpose.
Coach. Don't consult.
We see ourselves as coaches, not consultants. "Consultant" feels too formal and detached- coaching is about connection. Coaches inspire, encourage, and empower business owners to reach their full potential. Our goal isn't to be the smartest person in the room; it's to help you discover your strengths, overcome challenges, and achieve success on your entrepreneurial journey.
Set the standard.
Excellence is our benchmark- mediocrity has no place here. We strive to be the best SBDC in the nation, and that means rejecting the status quo and striving for continuous improvement. We're dedicated to staying ahead of the curve, constantly learning and evolving to remain at the forefront of business coaching and innovation.
Participate in the Ecosystem.
Entrepreneurs need the right environment to succeed, and strong communities are built on intentional support. We actively engage in the local ecosystem, collaborating with partners, connecting resources, and identifying opportunities to foster business growth. By being deeply involved, we help shape and environment where innovation thrives, and business can reach their full potential.
Do Big Things.
We're here to tackle significant challenges and drive meaningful impact in our community. Making a difference means focusing on bold, purposeful actions that create real, lasting change. Every initiative we take is designed to deliver measurable progress where it matters most.
Equal Access.
The American Dream is about freedom- the freedom to be your own boss, control your time, make your own decisions, and achieve financial independence. We believe this opportunity should be available to everyone, no matter who they are or where they come from. Because true opportunity has no boundaries.
Our Full Time Business Advisers
Subject Matter Experts on Contract
Our Board of Trustees
Joe Collinsworth
Bennett, Groeber, Mullen & Feltner CPAs
Brian Nott
Park National Bank
Barry Couts
True Inspection Services
Kristin Davis
Ohio Valley Surgical Institute
Rob Pollock
Clingman Insurance
Amy Donahoe
The Partnership of Greater Springfield
Tom Franzen
City of Springfield, OH
Toni Overholser
Clark State College
Otto Larson
Wallace and Turner Insurance
Jonathan Johnson
NiSource
Lori Houseman
Coldwell Banker Heritage Realty
Lisa Stoumile
Higher Dimensions Training
Kent Stone
Fresh, the Barbershop