Part of our job is to support the region through workforce development. In doing so, we hear from professionals and entrepreneurs all the time, and we've found they all have similar questions: What do I need to know about tax law? What happens after onboarding a new employee? What are the key points in developing a brand guideline? And these are only a select few!

Oftentimes it can feel overwhelming to run a business or organization. The need for information is so much bigger than one community. Ignite 419 is a brand-new event for business leaders and organizations across Northwest Ohio who have questions about finance, human resources, marketing, or small business leadership.

Renee takes the back seat while Sarah gives the whole 4-1-1 with the assistance of event committee team member, Ashley Barger, who also happens to be a panelist in the upcoming event. There will be several 'Ask Me Anything' panels by industry type, a 'Tell All' Small Business Owner panel, a TedX Keynote Speakers, and a Wildfire Leadership Workshop.

Ready to reignite your passion? www.ignite419.com

The podcast can be found on Spotify, Apple and Google. Learn more and follow Shut Up & Listen: Small Town Stories on Facebook and Instagram.

Fostoria Water Department is partnering with EPA's Get the Lead Out (GLO) Initiative to identify and plan for the replacement of lead water service lines! Lead is a soft, toxic metal known to cause health issues in people of all ages, but especially children and pregnant people. You may notice Fostoria Water Department and GLO staff walking around your neighborhood to collect service line material information. If you receive a visit, please let them in! The identification process is quick and easy and will help ensure the safety of our city.

If you want to save yourself time by identifying your own service line, Fostoria Water Department has a survey you can complete on their Facebook page, or you can call the Water Department at 419-435-2486 to schedule an appointment for their staff to visit your home. Together, we can Get the Lead Out!

Exciting news! Our Why Fostoria video just got an upgrade, and it’s more inspiring than ever! Get a glimpse of what makes Fostoria a unique place to live, work, and grow. Watch, share, and let us know what you love most about our community! Shoutout to JYoakam Communications for all your work on this video!

2025 Chamber Sponsorship Packages are now available!

Becoming a 2025 Fostoria Area Chamber of Commerce Sponsor at the platinum, gold, silver, or bronze level presents a unique opportunity to showcase your commitment to the local community and its economic growth. As a sponsor, your business will gain increased visibility among key stakeholders, including local businesses, community leaders, and potential customers. This sponsorship not only enhances your brand's reputation but also aligns your company with the Chamber's mission to foster a thriving business environment. By supporting the Chamber's initiatives, you are investing in the future of Fostoria, helping to drive innovation, attract talent, and create a more prosperous community.

Our next class begins February 3rd! It will be held on Monday nights.  

10 weeks, 1 night a week from 6:00-9:00 p.m.

$250, includes participant resource kit and 10 week course

APPLY NOW

CO.STARTERS provides and action-driven, collaborative process with a small and supportive group of like-minded people. Over ten sessions, you’ll identify your assumptions about why and how your business will work and then talk through those.

Entrepreneurship is an exciting journey, but the path isn’t always clear.

CO.STARTERS Core is a 10-week program that walks you through a proven process to get your business unstuck and off the ground.

Trusted by over 24,000 entrepreneurs, CO.STARTERS Core might be for you if:

• You have a business idea, but have no idea how to actually start a business
• You have a creative hobby (like photography, baking, pottery, etc.) that you’d love to monetize
• You have a side-hustle, but you aren’t sure if you could turn it into a full-time gig
• You’ve started a business, but feel stuck trying to scale it or launch a new revenue stream

During each live-facilitated session, you’ll work with a group of 10-15 likeminded entrepreneurs through ten foundational topics.