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Date: September 2, 2025Columbus, Ohio - In a move to support local small businesses, Ohio Governor John Smith signed a new bill into law today that aims to provide financial relief and resources to entrepreneurs and small business owners across the state.The Small Business Support Act, as it is called, includes several key provisions aimed at helping small businesses recover and thrive in the post-pandemic economy. One of the main components of the bill is the establishment of a new grant program that will provide funding to small businesses that have been negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The grants will be available to businesses in a wide range of industries, including retail, hospitality, and manufacturing.In addition to the grant program, the bill also includes measures to streamline the process for small businesses to access state resources and support services. This will include various forms of technical assistance, such as business planning and financial management support.Governor Smith emphasized the importance of small businesses to the state's economy, stating, "Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and are essential to the vitality of our communities. This new legislation will provide much-needed support to help small businesses recover and grow, creating new jobs and driving economic growth across Ohio."The bill was met with bipartisan support in the state legislature, with lawmakers from both sides of the aisle commending the Governor for his leadership on this issue. State Senator Sarah Johnson, a Republican, said, "This bill is a crucial step in helping our small businesses recover from the economic hardships brought on by the pandemic. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass this important legislation."The Ohio Department of Commerce will be responsible for implementing and overseeing the new grant program, with applications expected to open in the coming months. Small business owners across the state are encouraged to stay updated on the program details and eligibility criteria to take advantage of this new support initiative.