Senator Smith Appointed to Minority Business Advisory Council

Senator Shirley Smith (D-Cleveland) was appointed to the Minority Business Advisory Council for the 128^th General Assembly. The Council, established by executive order by Governor Ted Strickland, will coordinate the state’s efforts to maximize opportunities and growth of minority businesses.

“Minority owned businesses have occupied an important place in Ohio’s economy for a long time,” said Senator Shirley Smith. “With the establishment of the Minority Business Advisory Council, we will work to make Ohio an even more attractive state for minority owned businesses, and to strengthen those businesses that already exist. I am honored to be a part of this Council”

U.S. Census Bureau statistics from 2007 show that although there has been an increase in the number of minority-owned firms in Ohio over the past decade, the revenue growth and long-term success of these companies is not matching the businesses’ start-up rates.

“Ohio needs help,” said Senator Smith. “Minority owned businesses have the potential to give jobs to those who desperately need them and give Ohio the economic jump start it needs. This is why I sponsored an amendment in the state’s operating budget to help minority businesses with bonding requirements.”

The Minority Business Advisory Council will be charged with collaborating with the Ohio Department of Development and Ohio Department of Administrative Services to carry out responsibilities in the areas of economic development, employment, procurement, training and other matters affecting the economic vitality of the minority business community.

The Council will also advise state entities on diversifying and opening its markets, as well as identifying and promoting opportunities for minority business. Additionally, the Council will provide guidance on current legislation and practices that have an impact on the minority business community.

The Council will consist of a maximum of 40 individuals who are currently involved or have previously been engaged in the development of minority businesses, through private industry, government or scholarly work. The membership should be a diverse representation of regions and ethnic groups in the state of Ohio, and include representatives from state government and the state legislature as well as individuals involved in various aspects of the minority business community.