April is Second-Chance Hiring Month
TRCC Launches Fair Chance Hiring Employer Guidebook
| | Reach out to our Workforce Initiatives Manager at lauryn.vargas@toledochamber.com for additional information | | The Toledo region has over 20,000 annual job openings, yet many businesses are still struggling to find the talent they need. We are excited to launch the Fair Chance Hiring Employer Guidebook! This new resource, powered by our Re-Entry Development Initiative (REDI), helps local businesses expand their access to a highly motivated, untapped talent pool. Download your copy today and start building a stronger workforce. | |
Capitol Conversations
presented by the Regional Growth Partnership/JobsOhio
May 12, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.
The Athletic Club of Columbus
| | | | From the Toledo Region to the Ohio Statehouse – position yourself at the heart of the policy ecosystem that affects workforce, taxation, regulations and infrastructure. Gain access to legislators and decision-makers you might rarely reach otherwise and help maintain the region’s influence, sustain advocacy efforts, and support policies that benefit our business community. | | |
It is critical now more than ever that the Toledo region unifies to send a message to leaders in Columbus. Legislators and agency leaders alike must understand our region’s priorities and the critical need to work together to achieve success. Our region is strong, and these leaders must be shown what we bring to the table to the benefit of our entire state.
Your voice will make a difference in accurately representing the region and ensuring that our challenges and opportunities get the attention they deserve. Join us in Columbus. Make a difference.
| | Welcome to the Team: Veronica Gonzalez, Member Relationship Manager | | | | The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce is excited to welcome Veronica Gonzalez to our team as Member Relationship Manager. Veronica brings a passion for people, community, and connection—making her a natural fit for our mission to support and strengthen the business community across the Toledo region. | | Before You Vote: A Quick Look at Lucas County Levies | | | | |
The Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce gathers information regarding levies each year, providing members with the information about them needed to make informed voting decisions.
The primary election will take place on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.
These two levies will appear on the ballot in Lucas County.
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Powering Progress:
Celebrating National Small Business Week in Toledo
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Celebrate National Small Business Week with the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce through a week of special events and programs designed to support and connect entrepreneurs across our region. Established by the U.S. Small Business Administration, this national celebration recognizes the critical role small businesses play in driving innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening communities across the country.
From networking at Grounds for Discussion to hands-on learning through SBDC and MBAC workshops, each event offers practical tools and valuable connections to help your business grow. Join us May 4th through 8th as we champion small business success and the impact it drives in our local economy.
Check out the events below!
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Small Business Week Events | | |
Grounds for Discussion
presented by NAMI Greater Toledo
May 5, 2026 | 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.
Davis University |200 North St. Clair St., Toledo
| | No-cost to attend, but registration is required. | | This no-cost, casual, monthly morning gathering is designed to spark conversations, expand your network, and help you build relationships that strengthen your business. Over coffee and open dialogue, you’ll meet new peers, exchange ideas, and walk away with connections that matter. | |
Business Blueprint
presented by the Small Business Development Center
May 6, 2026 | 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Main Branch Library, Fred McDonald Room|325 N Michigan St., Toledo
| | No-cost to attend, but registration is required. | | The Toledo SBDC Business Blueprint class is tailored for aspiring entrepreneurs who need guidance in launching their business. This interactive session offers a clear overview of critical startup steps including how to create a business plan, navigate licensing and local regulations, and develop effective marketing strategies. It also covers essential financial topics such as understanding financial statements, managing cash flow, preparing for funding opportunities, and identifying valuable business resources to support long-term success. | |
Protecting Intellectual Property for Small Business
presented by the US Patent and Trademark Office & Ohio SBDC
May 7, 2026 | 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Davis University |200 North St. Clair St.., Toledo
| | No-cost to attend, but registration is required. | | |
Learn about protecting your intellectual property as you move from idea to marketplace.
Join the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and the Ohio Small Business Development Center (Ohio SBDC) at the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce for a special event celebrating National Small Business Week 2026.
| | This event features expert presentations from Michael Tolson, Toledo SBDC Director and Vice President, Small Business Services at the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce; Marilyn Nash, Interim Assistant Regional Director and Regional Outreach Officer with the USPTO Midwest Elijah J. McCoy Regional Outreach Office. Experts, including patent and trademark attorneys, lenders and APEX Accelerator, will also be onsite to discuss legal considerations, business planning, and funding resources for small businesses and start-ups. | |
A.I and Small Business
May 8, 2026 | 11:00 - 1:30 p.m.
online webinar
| | No-cost to attend, but registration is required. | | |
Artificial Intelligence is transforming how small businesses operate, but only when used correctly.
Join us for a focused 90-minute overview where the Toledo SBDC will share best practices, practical tips, and responsible approaches to integrating AI into your daily operations.
Whether you're just getting started with AI or looking to use it more effectively, this session will give you clear guidance and confidence to move forward.
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Workers Compensation Seminar, presented by V+A Risk Services
April 16, 2026 | 8:00 - 11:30 a.m.
300 Madison Ave., Toledo | Rms. 807-809
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Receive Ohio workers’ comp updates and safety information as well as updates form local attorneys and other experts.
This is an ideal opportunity for members enrolled in a group rating program to fulfill the BWC 2-hour safety training requirement and get the latest info on workforce issues.
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Speakers include:
Richard Johnson, Eastman & Smith
“VSSR – An Employer’s Workers’ Comp Nightmare”
Dayna Noble, Ohio BWC Industrial Safety Consultant Specialist
“How to Find and Fix Hazards”
Jim Yates, Eastman & Smith
“OSHA Updates”
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Transitioning to Supervisor: Frontline Leadership Essentials
May 18 & 19, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. - noon
300 Madison Ave., Toledo | Rms. 807-809
| | | | With Transitioning to Supervisor: Frontline Leadership Essentials, you can equip your new supervisors with the tools they need to succeed, reducing the likelihood of costly leadership failures. In just two half-days of focused, expert-led training from In2Great, your supervisors will learn how to manage conflict, set expectations, build trust and navigate the shift from peer to leader. Give your new and emerging leaders the skills and mindset they need to lead confidently - improving communication, strengthening culture and reducing turnover. | | |
Looking to Promote Your Business?
| | America 250 – Business Spotlight Opportunity | | |
If your business would like to be featured in this historic community celebration, contact: iharrison@buckeyebroadband.com
See spotlight examples here.
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America’s 250th anniversary is a once-in-a-lifetime milestone marking a quarter-millennium of freedom, innovation, and community.
In that spirit, the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Buckeye Broadband to present a spotlight series of local businesses that are at the heart of our region’s economy.
Participating businesses will receive a professionally produced video feature and year-long patriotic exposure across television, streaming, and social platforms as part of the “Celebrate 250: Local Pride. National Spirit.” campaign.
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300 Madison Ave., Ste. 200 • (419) 243-8191
www.toledochamber.com
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