Supporting Black-owned businesses does not always mean spending money. In many cases, the most meaningful support comes from intentional actions that strengthen access, credibility, and long-term sustainability.

Below are five practical ways to support Black-owned businesses based on what consistently makes a measurable difference.

1. Connect Them to Opportunities

One of the most impactful ways to support Black-owned businesses is by connecting them to resources, events, and growth opportunities.

You may hear about:

• A grant

• A pitch competition

• A vendor opportunity

• A networking event

• A business program or workshop

Sharing that information with an entrepreneur, especially if they would not otherwise know about it, can change the trajectory of their business. A simple introduction or forwarded opportunity often creates more impact than a social media post.

2. Be a Reference, Not Just a Fan

Support is stronger when it translates into referrals.

If you trust a Black-owned business:

• Recommend them to your employer

• Suggest them to a colleague

• Share their name when someone asks for a service

Referrals build credibility, confidence, and consistency. For many small businesses, one strong referral can lead to multiple long-term opportunities.

3. Provide Feedback That Encourages Growth

Support is not limited to praise. It also includes thoughtful, respectful feedback.

If you have worked with or purchased from a Black-owned business:

• Share what worked well

• Mention what could be clearer

• Explain what influenced your decision to choose them

Constructive feedback helps entrepreneurs refine their messaging, pricing, and delivery. Sustainable growth is built on information and insight.

4. Leave Reviews and Testimonials That Strengthen Marketing

Leaving a clear, detailed review is one of the most practical ways to support Black-owned businesses.

Reviews do more than boost morale. They help businesses:

• Build trust with new customers

• Improve conversion rates

• Strengthen marketing efforts

• Justify pricing

If you have worked with or purchased from a Black-owned business:

• Describe the problem they solved

• Share why you chose them

• Explain the result you experienced

Specific testimonials help a business communicate value even when the owner is not present.

5. Respect the Business, Not Just the Cause

The strongest support is rooted in respect.

That means:

• Respecting pricing

• Honoring time commitments

• Paying on time

• Avoiding requests for special favors

Black-owned businesses are businesses. Sustainable support means treating them as professional partners, not temporary causes.

Supporting Black-owned businesses requires intention, consistency, and action. Whether through referrals, reviews, connections, or respectful partnerships, small efforts can create long-term economic impact.

At MBAC at YBI, we remain committed to helping Black-owned businesses access the tools, relationships, and opportunities needed to grow and thrive.

If you are ready to grow your business with structured support and expert guidance, complete our onboarding form to get started: Application for Information or Services. Our team will review your information and connect you with the right resources and next steps.

The post 5 Practical Ways to Support Black-Owned Businesses first appeared on YBI.

The post Uncle Crunch: A Woman-Owned MBAC Client Spotlight first appeared on YBI.

The Money Matters program is a flagship initiative offered by the Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) at the YBI. Designed to empower entrepreneurs—particularly those from underserved and minority communities—the program equips participants with essential financial knowledge, tools, and resources to grow their businesses and secure funding.

What Is the Money Matters Program?

Through cohort-based learning, Money Matters delivers structured, hands-on workshops led by experienced financial professionals and subject-matter experts. The curriculum focuses on:

• Financial literacy

• Loan preparedness

• Strategic financial planning

By guiding entrepreneurs through real-world scenarios, the program helps business owners navigate both traditional and alternative lending environments—increasing their chances of obtaining capital.

Impact: Training 37 Entrepreneurs and Counting

In a recent Money Matters cohort, 37 entrepreneurs enrolled to strengthen their financial foundation and build capacity for funding opportunities. Participants represented a wide range of industries and business stages—from startups to seasoned companies.

“The idea is to connect minority companies, ranging from large to small, with what they need most from a financial standpoint.” — said Monica Anderson, MBAC’s Financial Advisor at YBI

Mid-Year Reminder: Reassess Your Budget

As part of MBAC’s ongoing commitment to financial empowerment, entrepreneurs are encouraged to review their budgets and financial goals regularly. With the year already more than halfway through, now is the perfect time to:

• Revisit your annual goals

• Evaluate your financial progress

• Adjust spending or savings strategies accordingly

More Than a Program—A Long-Term Investment

The Money Matters program at YBI is more than just a series of workshops. It’s an ongoing investment in the financial strength and sustainability of minority- and women-owned businesses. Through education, personalized support, and community connection, MBAC is building a more inclusive and economically vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Want to learn more or join the next cohort?
Visit ybi.org or contact the MBAC team at YBI to explore upcoming opportunities.

The post Money Matters Program at YBI Empowers Entrepreneurs first appeared on YBI.

Rising Tides Eastern Ohio isn’t just a program; it’s a bold regional initiative redefining the economic landscape of Eastern Appalachian Ohio. Led by the YBI’s Advanced Manufacturing team, Rising Tides focuses on workforce development, industrial innovation, and long-term economic resilience in seven historically underserved counties: Ashtabula, Trumbull, Mahoning, Columbiana, Jefferson, Belmont, and Monroe.

Backed by $1.7 million in federal POWER (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization) funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and matched with nearly as much in local investment, Rising Tides responds to the urgent need for economic revitalization in communities impacted by the decline of the coal industry.

Building the Future: Not Just Recovery, but Reinvention

Rather than acting as a short-term fix, Rising Tides Eastern Ohio is strategically positioning the region for long-term success in future-focused industries:

– Advanced manufacturing
– Defense and aerospace
– Semiconductors
– Clean energy

These sectors are more than buzzwords; they represent high-wage, high-demand career paths with the potential to reshape Eastern Ohio’s economic identity.

Local Collaboration, Regional Impact

At the core of Rising Tides is a powerful Internal Project Team (IPT) comprising deeply rooted, high-impact regional partners. Together, they provide specialized services in:

– Workforce training and upskilling
– Business development
– Technology commercialization
– Federal grant readiness
– Supply chain support

This collaborative approach ensures the program delivers customized, community-driven solutions that match local needs with scalable outcomes.

Measurable Goals by 2026

Rising Tides is on track to:

– Directly support 140 businesses
– Train 200+ workers
– Create or retain 20+ jobs
– Attract $9 million+ in private investment
– Support the commercialization of emerging technologies developed in the region

These outcomes position the initiative as a model for inclusive, sustainable economic development.

A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats

True to its name, Rising Tides is about inclusive prosperity. The initiative focuses not only on growing companies but also on supporting communities that have long been overlooked. Every solution is local. Every strategy is designed to lift the whole region.

With an emphasis on equity, innovation, and future-readiness, Eastern Ohio is no longer reacting to change; it’s leading it.

Are You a Business or Leader in One of the Seven Counties?

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, manufacturer, educator, or community advocate, Rising Tides is here to support you. Now is the time to get involved, get connected, and help shape the future.

Contact the YBI Advanced Manufacturing Team HERE

Rising Tides Partners

The Rising Tides initiative is made possible by a strong coalition of regional leaders, each contributing their expertise to build a stronger, more resilient future for Eastern Ohio:

– Youngstown/Warren Regional Chamber of Commerce
– Lake to River Economic Development Organization
– Ashtabula Growth Partnership
– Columbiana County Port Authority
– Sustainable Opportunity Development Center of Salem (SOD)
– BRITE Energy Innovators
– America Makes
– Belmont County Community Improvement Corporation

The post Rising Tides Eastern Ohio: Advancing Our Region Through Manufacturing and Workforce Innovation first appeared on YBI.

Founded by Jasmine Neal, Healing Hearts CPR is more than a CPR training service; it’s a mission born from personal loss and transformed into purpose. Based in Northeast Ohio, this woman-led business is preparing individuals and organizations to save lives through certified, compassionate CPR training.

A Mission Rooted in Personal Tragedy

Jasmine Neal is a mother of four, a state-tested nursing assistant (STNA), and a passionate entrepreneur. Jasmine faced every parent’s fear when her child was three months old. Unable to perform CPR, her child passed away. She turned that personal challenge into a professional purpose.

She earned her GED, followed in her mother’s footsteps as a nursing assistant, and found a calling in preparing others for the unexpected. Inspired by her mother’s legacy of helping others, Jasmine launched Healing Hearts CPR to make sure no one else feels helpless in a moment of crisis.

Who Healing Hearts CPR Serves

Healing Hearts CPR offers professional CPR certification courses in Northeast Ohio, serving:
– Healthcare professionals who need Basic Life Support (BLS) to maintain licensure
– Educators, counselors, and school personnel
– Police departments and first responders
– Community organizations and individuals who want to be prepared

No matter your background, Healing Hearts welcomes you. If you want to learn how to save a life, you’re in the right place.

What to Expect From a CPR Training Session

Each training session is tailored to the needs of the group:
– Basic Life Support (BLS) classes for nurses, medical students, and STNAs
– Real-world training with medical devices and emergency scenarios
– Hands-on instruction and a welcoming, supportive environment

Jasmine’s goal is simple: to make sure every student walks away confident, equipped, and ready.

A One-Woman Operation Built on Grit

Despite the challenges of being a solo entrepreneur, Jasmine has grown Healing Hearts CPR steadily over the past four years. She’s faced barriers many small business owners know well: lack of resources, doing it all alone, and learning through trial and error.

You have to be willing to learn and take advice, she says. Even if you’re the only one, keep showing up.

Expansion Plans and a Vision for Growth

With support from the YBI and Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC), Healing Hearts CPR recently received certification as a minority-owned business and qualified for a state-funded microloan. These funds will help Jasmine:
– Purchase additional CPR training equipment
– Wrap her mobile training van with the Healing Hearts logo
– Potentially secure office space for in-person training
– Begin building a team of certified CPR instructors

Long-term, Jasmine hopes to expand across state lines and create job opportunities within her community.

Staying Motivated

When the days get tough, Jasmine returns to her why. She remembers the loss that started it all and focuses on the lives she’s helping others protect.

Her advice to young entrepreneurs:
“Keep putting your best foot forward. Stay consistent. You will have obstacles thrown your way. Don’t give up.”

Book CPR Training in Northeast Ohio Today

Healing Hearts CPR proudly serves all of Northeastern Ohio. Whether you’re part of a hospital, school, business, or just want to be prepared in case of an emergency, you’re invited to learn how to save a life.

Contact Healing Hearts CPR today to schedule a session or learn more.

The post Healing Hearts CPR: Saving Lives Through Powerful Training in Northeast Ohio first appeared on YBI.

This virtual reality Holocaust education initiative was the culmination of a comprehensive 8th-grade English unit on the Holocaust, incorporating literature, history, film, and stage performances. The Anne Frank VR experience, developed by the Anne Frank House museum in Amsterdam, offers a historically accurate 3D model of the annex, complete with narration and interactive elements that helped students deeply connect with Anne’s story.

“It surprised me just how small the space was,” said Brianna, an 8th grader at Warren. “It hurt my heart when Anne Frank said she didn’t care whether she lived or died. She felt so helpless.”

YBI’s Explore VR program — formerly known as Youth Entrepreneurship (YE) — supplied both the VR equipment and curriculum. Since its relaunch in January, the program has served more than 1,400 students across Northeast Ohio, led by Program Director Megan Payich and Program Coordinator Maggie Byers.

Teachers praised the initiative for blending technology and emotional learning. The immersive VR field trip helped reinforce classroom lessons while developing critical 21st-century skills, such as problem-solving, independence, and active listening—all essential for students preparing to transition to high school.

“This was an incredibly moving experience for our students,” one teacher noted. “They weren’t just reading history — they were standing in it.”

As Explore VR continues to grow throughout the region, the program stays committed to its mission: delivering equitable access to transformative educational experiences using virtual reality in schools. For the 8th graders in Warren, stepping into Anne Frank’s world — even virtually — made the past feel personal and unforgettable.

Explore VR continues to roll out interactive lessons across northeast Ohio, helping schools reimagine what’s possible through immersive educational technology. From historical tours, such as the Anne Frank VR experience, to entrepreneurship and career readiness modules, the program is building a more engaging and equitable future—one headset at a time.

The post Anne Frank House Virtual Reality Tour Transforms Classrooms at Warren City Schools first appeared on YBI.

1. Polymers (Plastics)

Polymers are the most commonly used materials in additive manufacturing processes due to their versatility, affordability, and range of applications. They are ideal for everything from simple prototypes to complex, functional parts. In 3D printing, polymers are melted or cured layer by layer to form precise shapes and tailored properties.

Types of Polymer Materials

Thermoplastics

Known for being cost-effective and easy to use, thermoplastics are the most common plastics in the additive manufacturing industry. Common examples include PLA, ABS, PETG, and Nylon, each offering a balance of strength, flexibility, and durability for prototyping and end-use parts.

Photopolymers

Photopolymers are UV-sensitive resins used in SLA and DLP printing. They harden under light exposure, allowing for smooth, detailed prints, ideal for dental models, jewelry, and medical devices.

High-Performance Polymers

Raw materials like PEEK and ULTEM offer excellent strength, heat resistance, and chemical durability. Used in aerospace, automotive, and medical fields, they require advanced printing systems to handle demanding conditions.

Applications

Prototyping

PLA and ABS are popular for rapid prototyping thanks to their low cost and easy printability, ideal for testing designs quickly.

Consumer Products

Nylon and PETG are used to make wearables, gadgets, and custom parts that require strength and flexibility.

Medical Devices

Biocompatible resins create dental models, hearing aids, and surgical tools, offering safety and precision in medical use.

Aerospace and Automotive

PEEK and other high-performance polymers are used for strong, lightweight parts that can handle heat and stress in harsh environments.

2. Metals

Metal additive manufacturing technologies produce durable and complex parts suitable for demanding applications. It is widely used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and healthcare. These printers utilize technology such as powder bed fusion, using laser or electron beam melting to form high-precision components layer by layer.

Types of Metal Materials

Aluminum

Aluminum is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant metal commonly used in additive manufacturing for automotive and aerospace components. Its strength-to-weight ratio makes it ideal for parts that need to be both durable and light.

Titanium Alloys

Titanium offers exceptional strength, low weight, and biocompatibility, making it a top choice for aerospace parts and custom medical implants. It performs well in demanding environments where both durability and lightness matter.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is valued for its strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. It’s frequently used to produce industrial tools, fixtures, and mechanical components that require robustness and long service life.

Cobalt-Chrome Alloys

Cobalt-chrome metal alloys are highly wear-resistant and biocompatible, making them ideal for dental restorations and orthopedic implants. These metals are known for longevity in both medical and industrial use.

Nickel Alloys (Inconel)

Nickel alloys, like Inconel, excel in high-temperature and corrosive environments. They’re commonly used in aerospace turbines, exhaust systems, and energy sector components that must withstand extreme conditions.

Applications

End-Use Parts

Metal AM enables the production of functional parts with complex geometries, often eliminating the need for multi-part assembly.

Aerospace

Used to create lightweight, high-strength components like brackets, fuel nozzles, and heat exchangers for aircraft.

Medical Implants

Biocompatible metal 3D printing is ideal for custom orthopedic and dental implants tailored to each patient.

Tooling

Metal AM makes durable tools, molds, and jigs that hold up in demanding manufacturing settings.

3. Ceramics

When used in the 3D printing process, ceramics offer exceptional hardness, heat resistance, and chemical stability, making them ideal for specialized and high-performance applications. They are used in industries such as healthcare, aerospace, and electronics. Ceramic 3D printing involves depositing or sintering ceramic powders or pastes, followed by high-temperature firing for strength.

Types of Ceramic Materials

Alumina (Al₂O₃)

Alumina is a hard, thermally stable ceramic often used in high-wear and high-temperature applications. It’s ideal for industrial parts like insulators, seals, and cutting tools.

Zirconia (ZrO₂)

Zirconia is known for its strength and resistance to cracking, making it suitable for dental prosthetics, medical implants, and precision components.

Silicon Carbide (SiC) and Silicon Nitride (Si₃N₄)

These ceramics perform well in extreme heat and are used in aerospace, automotive, and industrial equipment exposed to high temperatures and stress.

Glass Ceramics

Glass ceramics combine visual appeal with function and are used in decorative items, art, and specialized components requiring both form and durability.

Applications

Medical

Ceramics are used for dental crowns and prosthetics thanks to their biocompatibility and durability.

Aerospace and Defense

In aerospace and defense, ceramics are ideal for heat shields, nozzles, and engine components that must endure extreme temperatures.

Electronics

Ceramics serve as insulators and substrates in high-performance electronics, offering excellent thermal and electrical resistance.

Industrial

In industrial settings, ceramics produce wear-resistant parts such as valves, seals, and cutting tools.

4. Composites

Composites combine materials to produce parts with enhanced strength and performance. In additive manufacturing, they provide lightweight, durable solutions for industries like aerospace, automotive, and sports. 3D printers use composite filaments or resins reinforced with fibers like carbon or glass.

Types of Composite Materials

Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymers (CFRP)

CFRP blends plastic with carbon fibers, creating lightweight parts with excellent strength and stiffness — ideal for aerospace, automotive, and sports equipment.

Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymers

Similar to CFRP but more affordable, these composites offer good strength and are used in consumer goods, vehicles, and industrial components.

Metal Matrix Composites

These combine metals with ceramics or fibers, enhancing strength, wear resistance, and heat tolerance for demanding industrial and aerospace applications.

Applications

Automotive and Aerospace

Composites produce lightweight, high-strength components like panels, brackets, and housings in both the automotive and aerospace industries.

Sports Equipment

High-performance sports gear such as bicycles, helmets, and racket frames often rely on composites for strength without added weight.

Industrial Machinery

In industrial machinery, composites are used for parts that require high wear resistance and strong structural integrity.

5. Biomaterials

Biomaterials are used to produce medical, dental, and pharmaceutical items safe for the human body. They enable custom implants, tissue scaffolds, and personalized medicine. 3D printers use biocompatible polymers or bioinks — cell and hydrogel mixtures — layered to support tissue growth or deliver treatments.

Types of Biomaterials

Biodegradable Polymers

Materials like PLA, PCL, and PGA are used for temporary implants that safely break down in the body, often in medical and surgical applications.

Bioinks

Bioinks combine living cells with hydrogels for 3D bioprinting, enabling the creation of tissue-like structures for research and regenerative medicine.

Applications

Medical and Dental

Biomaterials are used to create custom prosthetics, tissue scaffolds, and bioprinted tissues for medical and dental applications.

Pharmaceuticals

In pharmaceuticals, biomaterials enable drug delivery systems and 3D-printed pills tailored for personalized treatment.

Research

Researchers use biomaterials to advance regenerative medicine by developing complex bioprinted structures for studying tissue growth and repair.

Choosing the Right Material for the Job

Selecting the right additive manufacturing material ensures the final part meets functional, aesthetic, and budgetary requirements. Several key factors should guide this decision based on the intended use and environment of the part.

Mechanical Properties

Materials should be chosen for their strength, flexibility, and durability to match demands. For example, load-bearing parts require high strength, while flexible components need materials that can bend without breaking.

Thermal and Chemical Resistance

Parts exposed to high heat, cold, or harsh chemicals need materials that can withstand extreme conditions without degrading. This is especially important in industries like aerospace, automotive, and industrial manufacturing.

Biocompatibility

For medical devices or wearables, materials must be safe for use in or on the human body. Biocompatible materials prevent adverse reactions and ensure comfort, especially in implants or prolonged skin contact.

Aesthetic Qualities

Color, surface finish, and texture can be important for consumer-facing products. Choosing materials with good visual appeal or those that can be easily post-processed helps achieve the desired look and feel.

Cost and Availability

The choice of material must align with budget constraints and production scale. It’s important to balance cost with performance, ensuring the material is readily available and suitable for efficient manufacturing.

Trends in Additive Manufacturing Materials

As additive manufacturing technology advances, so does the innovation surrounding the materials used. New developments focus on improving performance, expanding capabilities, and addressing environmental concerns.

Sustainable Materials

Eco-friendly options like biodegradable polymers and recycled materials are becoming more popular as companies aim to reduce their environmental impact. These materials support sustainable production practices without compromising functionality.

Multi-Material Printing

Multi-material printing enables the creation of parts that combine different properties, such as rigid and flexible sections, in a single build. This allows for more complex, functional designs and reduces the need for assembly.

Smart Materials

Smart materials respond to external factors like heat, pressure, or moisture, opening the door to applications in wearable technology, sensors, and adaptive devices. These materials add functionality and interactivity to printed parts.

Customized Alloys and Composites

Tailor-made alloys and composites are designed for specific needs, improving strength, reducing weight, or enhancing resistance to wear and heat. This customization allows for improved performance in specialized industries like aerospace, medical, and automotive.

Unlimited Possibilities With Additive Manufacturing Materials

3D printing materials — from plastics and metals to ceramics, composites, and biomaterials — are the key to driving innovation across industries.

For manufacturers, staying current on material options enhances capabilities and unlocks new markets. For customers, understanding material choices ensures the best solution for your needs — whether it’s a lightweight part, a medical device, or a durable tool.

Explore the evolving world of additive manufacturing materials and let it elevate your next project. 

Need more support? At YBI, we have a team of experts ready to help you integrate advanced manufacturing technology into your processes. Learn more about our Advanced Manufacturing Program.

The post Additive Manufacturing Materials: Different Types and Applications first appeared on YBI.

The Advanced Manufacturing User Expo brings together manufacturers, tech providers, engineers, and industry leaders to showcase practical applications of Industry 4.0. This one-day event focuses on real-world problem-solving through technologies like:

– 3D printing and rapid prototyping for form, fit, and function
– Predictive maintenance using sensors and IIoT
– Artificial Intelligence (AI) for smarter hiring and market analysis
– Robotics and automation for enhanced efficiency
– Advanced materials and digital workflows

“The goal is to raise awareness of how advanced manufacturing technologies can be used to solve problems that most traditional manufacturers have,” said Barb Ewing, CEO of the Youngstown Business Incubator.

Who Should Attend?

You don’t need to be a tech expert to benefit from AMUX. This event is built for decision-makers and practitioners alike:

– Manufacturing Executives
– Engineers & Plant Managers
– Small Business Owners
– Procurement & Supply Chain Professionals
– Workforce Development Specialists

Event Details:

Location: Eastwood Event Centre, Niles, OH
Date: May 20, 2025
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Tickets: Just $25, includes access to all panels, demos, and lunch
Register Now: www.ybi.org/AMUX

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

This isn’t just another trade show. AMUX is a hands-on, solutions-focused experience where you’ll see:

– Live demonstrations of cutting-edge manufacturing tools
– Panel discussions with leading experts – Panelists like Spokbee, an AI-driven business development platform, will share insights on how manufacturers can better identify customers and partners using data.
– Networking opportunities with regional and national industry leaders
– Technology showcases from robotics to AI-driven platforms

Join organizations like America Makes, the nation’s leading public-private partnership for additive manufacturing, as they showcase real-world applications of advanced technology.

Final Thoughts

Manufacturing is evolving, and the tools to drive that change are more accessible than ever. The Youngstown Business Incubator is proud to help companies in our region tap into this potential.

Join us on May 20 to explore how you can turn advanced manufacturing into a competitive advantage for your business.

Register today at www.ybi.org/AMUX and be part of what’s next in manufacturing.

The post Discover Real Solutions at AMUX: Advanced Manufacturing User Expo Coming to Niles May 20 first appeared on YBI.

As Women’s History Month 2025 comes to a close, the Youngstown Business Incubator (YBI) celebrates the extraordinary impact of women entrepreneurs in Northeast Ohio. It highlights how our Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) provides critical support for women-owned businesses in our region.

As Women’s History Month 2025 comes to a close, the Youngstown Business Incubator (YBI) celebrates the extraordinary impact of women entrepreneurs in Northeast Ohio. It highlights how our Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) provides critical support for women entrepreneurs in Northeast Ohio.

The Growing Impact of Women Entrepreneurs in Northeast Ohio

Women entrepreneurs in Northeast Ohio continue transforming the entrepreneurial landscape across Ohio and nationwide. Recent data shows that women-owned businesses generate over $1.8 trillion in revenue annually in the United States, with Ohio ranking among the top 15 states for growth in women’s entrepreneurship. Despite this impressive economic contribution, women entrepreneurs still navigate unique challenges in accessing capital, securing contracts, and scaling their businesses.

In Youngstown and throughout the Mahoning Valley, women entrepreneurs are launching innovative startups, creating local jobs, and developing solutions to pressing community challenges. Their resilience and creativity aren’t just building individual businesses—they’re strengthening our regional economy and inspiring future entrepreneurs.

How YBI’s MBAC Program Supports Women Entrepreneurs in Northeast Ohio

The Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) at Youngstown Business Incubator offers specialized resources designed to address the specific needs of women entrepreneurs in Northeast Ohio. Our comprehensive support system helps women entrepreneurs start, sustain, and scale successful enterprises.

Key MBAC Services for Women Entrepreneurs in Ohio:

• Free Business Counseling: One-on-one sessions with certified business advisors who understand the unique challenges women entrepreneurs face in the Ohio market
• Women-Owned Business Certification: Step-by-step assistance in obtaining Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) and Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE) certifications that open doors to government and corporate contracts
• Capital Access Planning: Guidance navigating loans, grants, and investment opportunities specifically available to women entrepreneurs in Ohio
• Procurement Opportunities: Connections to government and corporate supplier diversity programs seeking women-owned vendors in Northeast Ohio
• Business Development Workshops: Practical training on essential business skills, from financial management to digital marketing strategies

Success Stories: Women-Owned Businesses Thriving with MBAC Support

The Youngstown region showcases inspiring examples of women entrepreneurs who have leveraged MBAC resources to overcome challenges and achieve remarkable growth:

Hannah Ferguson, founder of DOPE Cider House & Winery, made history as Ohio’s first Black female professional brewer. With support from MBAC, she opened the first Black female-owned cidery in the state, offering handcrafted hard ciders, seltzers, and wines in a welcoming, community-centered space in Youngstown.

Eliza Kelley, owner of EMIT Training Consultants, draws on over 20 years of experience to offer training focused on equity, inclusion, and education. Since launching in 2019, her business has secured contracts with major public sector clients, partly thanks to MBAC’s assistance with certifications and growth strategies.

Gloris Griffin, owner of Gloris Griffin Counseling Services, provides culturally sensitive mental health care in Boardman, Ohio. Her agency offers tailored support for adults facing mental health, substance abuse, and co-occurring challenges, with MBAC helping her business grow its reach and impact.

Katrina Simms, founder of Azanna Elise, uplifts the Youngstown community through motivational speaking, workshops, and youth programs. With guidance from MBAC, Katrina has expanded her programming and deepened her impact on local youth development.

Trina Williams, owner of A Fresh Wind Catering, operates a food truck and catering business specializing in gourmet egg rolls and fresh fare. MBAC support has helped her navigate the business landscape and grow her culinary presence in the region.

Building a Stronger Ecosystem for Women Entrepreneurs in Ohio

While we highlight these achievements during Women’s History Month, YBI’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs in Northeast Ohio extends throughout the year. Through our MBAC program, we’re working to address persistent challenges facing women entrepreneurs in Ohio:

• Closing funding gaps (women founders nationwide received just 2.1% of venture capital in 2023)
• Expanding access to government contracts through certification assistance
• Connecting women entrepreneurs with mentors who understand their unique journeys
• Creating networking opportunities that build stronger business relationships in the Youngstown area

Get Free Business Support from YBI’s MBAC Program

As Women’s History Month 2025 concludes, join us in strengthening opportunities for women entrepreneurs in Northeast Ohio:

• Refer women business owners to YBI’s MBAC program for free business support services
• Choose women-owned suppliers and vendors for your business needs in the Mahoning Valley
• Mentor aspiring women entrepreneurs through YBI’s community programs
• Share procurement opportunities with certified women-owned businesses in your network
• Advocate for policies that support women entrepreneurs in Ohio

Together, we can build a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that unlocks the full potential of all business owners in our community.

The Youngstown Business Incubator (YBI) houses the Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) of Youngstown, providing specialized support for minority and women-owned businesses throughout Northeast Ohio. Contact us today at [email protected] to learn how our free services can help your business grow.

The post Celebrating Women Entrepreneurs During Women’s History Month first appeared on YBI.

At the Youngstown Business Incubator (YBI), we believe Black History Month is a time for both reflection and action. It honors the contributions of Black entrepreneurs and business leaders while reinforcing the need for economic equity. One way we support this mission is by hosting the Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC).

What is MBAC?

The Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) provides essential resources for minority-owned businesses in Ohio. It offers business counseling, minority business certifications, and small business loan access. Additionally, MBAC helps entrepreneurs connect through networking opportunities. These services give Black entrepreneurs and minority business owners the tools to succeed.

Why This Work Matters

Black-owned businesses drive economic growth, create jobs, and strengthen communities. Yet, many face barriers like limited funding access and fewer networking opportunities. MBAC bridges these gaps by offering mentorship, business development support, and grants for Black entrepreneurs. These resources help level the playing field.

Black Entrepreneurs Making an Impact

Throughout February, we will highlight successful Black entrepreneurs who have used MBAC services. Their journeys showcase business growth, innovation, and the value of equitable support systems. These stories inspire and demonstrate how targeted resources make a difference.

How You Can Get Involved

Supporting Black-owned businesses should happen all year. Here are some ways to contribute:

• Shop at Black-owned businesses and encourage others to do the same.
• Engage with MBAC by seeking business resources or mentoring Black entrepreneurs.
• Share success stories and promote policies for economic inclusion.

As we celebrate Black History Month, YBI remains dedicated to empowering minority businesses and building an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Together, we can create lasting impact and ensure all small businesses have the opportunity to thrive.

To learn more about MBAC at YBI and how we can support your minority-owned business, visit our MBAC page or contact us today.

The post Celebrating Black History Month: Empowering Minority Entrepreneurs Through MBAC at YBI first appeared on YBI.