State of Ohio Loan Programs for Businesses

  • The Ohio Micro-Loan Program is designed to stimulate the growth of new and existing businesses by providing micro-loans at 0% interest. The minimum loan amount is $10,000 to a maximum of $45,000. Loans will be repaid within five years for permanent working capital and seven years for equipment.
  • The Women’s Business Enterprise Loan Program is designed to stimulate the growth of existing women-owned businesses by providing loans at market rate or below market rate interest (currently up to 3%). The minimum loan amount is $45,000 up to a maximum of $500,000. Loans will be repaid within 10 years for equipment and machinery and 15 years for owner-occupied real estate.
  • The Minority Business Direct Loan Program provides fixed, low-interest rate loans to certified minority-owned businesses that are purchasing or improving fixed assets resulting in the creation of new jobs for Ohioans.  The minimum direct loan under the Minority Business Direct Loan Program is $45,000.  The term on the loan cannot exceed 15 years for real estate financing or 10 years for machinery financing.

Questions? Contact the Ohio Development Services Agency, at BusinessHelp@Development.Ohio.Gov  or 1-833-249-6446.


City of Oberlin COVID-19 Emergency Working Capital Loan Program for Businesses (Sole Proprietors Eligible)

City of Oberlin Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) COVID-19 Emergency Working Capital Loan Program for Businesses


Ohio Development Services Agency Resources


Additional resources for businesses and employees: