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COLUMBUS – Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose announced 179,636 new business filings in 2022, down 18,374 filings from the all-time record-setting year in 2021, and the second highest in state history. December of 2022 saw 13,012 new business filings, 496 more filings than December 2021.

With small business optimism reaching its 12th consecutive month below the 49-year average, according to the NFIB December Report, entrepreneurs and job creators continue to be cautious. Accordingly, in light of these headwinds, Secretary LaRose continues to modernize the Secretary of State’s office to make it as business-friendly as possible to encourage entrepreneurship and help guide new businesses on a path to success.

"In the face of national economic headwinds, Ohio entrepreneurs continue to show their resilience," said Secretary LaRose. "If you’re an Ohioan looking to live out the American dream of starting your own business, you should know that we’ll always have your back, and we’re here to help you from the day you file those first articles of incorporation through the growth of your business."

Through streamlining certifications for minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses and modernizing the process for limited liability companies (LLCs) to incorporate in Ohio, Secretary LaRose continues to work to simplify the process for starting a business in the Buckeye State. A new business in Ohio can be filed in Ohio for $99 – less than our neighboring states – and the application can typically be processed in twenty-four hours. Secretary LaRose has also expanded the Ohio Business Resource Connection, a compilation of private and public resources available to assist businesses. He has hosted dozens of roundtables throughout the state with community, legislative and business leaders to spread the word about the resources available for entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their businesses.

QUICK FACTS:

• 179,636 new businesses have been created in 2022, the second highest in state history, averaging 14,969 per month.
• 13,012 new businesses were created in December 2022, a 496 filing increase from December 2021.
• 2019, 2020, and 2021 were all record-setting years in Ohio for new business creation. In 2021, Ohio surpassed the annual filing record with 197,010 new business filings.
• Ohio entrepreneurs can visit OhioSoS.gov/BusinessResources to discover the helpful opportunities available to them that can help them start and grow their business.
  
  

NOTE: New business filings are classified as forms filed with the Ohio Secretary of State that declare the formation of a business entity, including for-profit, non-profit and professional corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, limited partnerships and limited liability partnerships. Filing as a business in Ohio does not guarantee the company will begin operations, be profitable or create jobs.

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