The Ohio Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at The Ohio State University South Centers, in collaboration with regional partners, hosted the Fayette County Business Bootcamp, a comprehensive six-session course held from January through April 2026.
The program was specifically designed to provide practical applications and foundational strategies for startup and early-stage businesses.
The curriculum addressed critical components of business sustainability and growth. Guest speakers and industry experts provided real-world insights and resources across several core disciplines:
- Capital procurement and lending options
- Strategic business planning and implementation
- Targeted marketing and pricing structures
- Human resources and employee management
The initiative represented a coordinated effort between multiple economic development and community partners. Business Advisor Melissa Carter of South Centers’ SBDC partnered with OSU Extension Fayette County Community Development, JH Legal, Saavy Advisors, and Huntington Bank for the bootcamp.
Twenty-five business owners and entrepreneurs participated in the course. After completing the educational programming, qualifying attendees could apply for a $1,500 business acceleration grant funded by Amazon, providing direct capital to stimulate local business growth.