COLUMBUS –  Last year, despite the pandemic, Ohioans created a record 171,073 new businesses. In January 2021, 16,018 new business filings were filed with the Ohio Secretary of State Business Services Division. This is a 33% increase from January 2020.

“In this new year, full of hope in the face of Covid’s continued threat, Ohioans persist in following their American dream of creating a business,” said Secretary of State Frank LaRose. “Few actions, combined with hard work, can transform a family and provide generational wealth like a small business can. I continue to encourage Ohioans to search out and patronize small businesses in their communities.”                       Those looking to start a new business should take advantage of quick-and-easy online filing through Ohio Business Central by clicking here to visit OhioBusinessCentral.gov.

NOTE: New business filings are classified as forms filed with the Ohio Secretary of State that declare the formation of a business entity, including for-profit, non-profit and professional corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, limited partnerships and limited liability partnerships. Filing as a business in Ohio does not guarantee the company will begin operations, be profitable or create jobs.

EDITOR'S QUICK FACTS:

• 16,018 new businesses were created in Ohio in January 2021.
• New business filings were 33% higher than in January 2020 (12,069).
• New business filings in 2020 totaled 171,073, beating 2019’s previous record of 130,621.
• Ohio entrepreneurs can visit OhioSoS.gov/BusinessResources to discover the helpful opportunities available to them that can help them start and grow their business.

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