How do I register my business?
Learn what business type is best for your venture, find the right form, and make registration payment all on one site: Ohio Secretary of State
Where can I get help with advertising and marketing?
There are many business associations that offer marketing support with a membership as well as businesses that are specific geared towards marketing. Locally you can contact: Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Athens Area Chamber, Hocking Hills Chamber, Nelsonville Chamber of Commerce, Winding Road, Redtail Design, etc.
What building codes do I need to follow?
If you are going to purchase and /or renovate a business you can contact local Code Enforcement to avoid surprise expenses:
Nelsonville City Code Enforcement
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(740) 753-1314
What health codes do I need to follow?
To find information about health codes that relates to sanitation, food service, food processing, and businesses that deal with public accommodations such as campgrounds, pools, and tattoo parlors contact:
Athens City & County Health Department
Environmental Health
Patrick McGarrey
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740-592-4431
Where can I get help with market research?
If you want to expand your product sales to new markets, the Ohio SBDC can help you do the research.
What business properties are available to rent or buy?
A few sources that are easy to access are the Athens County Land Bank, and the Athens Ohio Real Estate site. Nelsonville based commercial listings can be found at Rutter Rentals (740) 753-3324 and L’Heureux Properties.
Where can I find locally sourced food?
One place to start is the Central Appalachia Food Corridor, and another great resource is the Chesterhill Produce Auction.
Where can I learn about managing my finances?
A great place to start is with Ohio SBDC.
Where can I get business coaching?
Do I need a business plan?
Not necessarily, but it is very beneficial. You do not however need to hire someone to write your business plan. A good start would be following this guide provided by Ohio Small Business Development Centers. Consultants at ACEnet and the LIGHTS program can also help you through the process.
Where can I go to find employees?
Career Connections based in Athens can be a great place to look for local talent. If you’re interested in casting a wider net, the state workforce development tool Ohio Means Jobs can help.
If I have a question - who can I contact?
Contact the Nelsonville Area Chamber of Commerce with any questions and they will get back to you as soon as possible.
