JobsOhio and Aileron Open Small Business Academy to All Eligible Ohio Firms

Event summary

  • JobsOhio and Aileron expanded eligibility for the Small Business Academy to all qualified Ohio small business owners, effective May 4, 2026.
  • The free 12-month program, previously limited to JobsOhio Small Business Grant recipients, has graduated 78 business leaders from 46 companies since its 2024 launch.
  • Cohort 3 will accept 25 businesses, with participants receiving a $1,000 stipend for travel and lodging.
  • Applicants must operate in JobsOhio’s target industries, have at least eight employees, and annual revenue of $750,000 or more.
  • Applications for Cohort 3 are due July 15, 2026, with the program beginning in September 2026.

The big picture

This expansion reflects a strategic shift to broaden access to professional management training for Ohio’s small businesses, aligning with JobsOhio’s mission to accelerate growth across targeted industries. The move underscores the growing emphasis on fostering scalable, thriving businesses as a cornerstone of state economic development. With Aileron’s 30-year expertise in business leadership development, the partnership aims to create a more robust ecosystem for small business success.

What we're watching

Program Scalability
Whether the expansion to all eligible small businesses will maintain the program’s quality and impact.
Participant Outcomes
How the structured curriculum and peer networking will translate into measurable business growth for Cohort 3 participants.
Statewide Economic Impact
The pace at which the program contributes to sustainable, long-term growth across Ohio’s small business landscape.