​Here at the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce, everything we do ties back to one thing: fostering economic growth and supporting a thriving business culture throughout the region. We advocate for a successful and progressive business environment and we lead the charge in talent and workforce by attracting talent to the region and helping our members to retain that talent. Finally, we provide various series and resources to our members in order to connect them with opportunities for growth.

For companies exporting or are looking to export, the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce can connect you with the resources you need to succeed. Keep reading to find out what tools are available to you right here in northwest Ohio.

By Tim Schneider, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce

Prior to Toledo City Council’s January 2 session at 5:30 p.m., District 3 Councilwoman-Elect Theresa Gadus and District 5 Councilman-Elect Sam Melden are expected to be sworn in for the seats they were elected to in November. Ms. Gadus will succeed former councilman Peter Ujvagi and Mr. Melden will succeed former councilman Tom Waniewski. Returning district council members include Tyrone Riley (District 1), Matt Cherry (District 2), and Yvonne Harper (District 4). At-large council members currently in the middle of their 4-year term include Cecelia Adams, Gary Johnson, Nick Komives, Rob Ludeman, and Larry Sykes. An at-large vacancy was created effective December 31 with the resignation of Sandy Spang who took a role in the City’s economic development department. Council has 30 days from that date to select a replacement who according to city charter must run in the November 2020 general election to retain the seat for the remainder of the term that expires at the end of 2021.

​It’s no question that jobs are going unfilled every day, not just in our community but all over the country. In response to this need, educators are working hard to provide the talent that is needed for our businesses to grow. One of those change makers is Debra Heban, Career & Technical Education Director at Washington Local School. Washington Local was recently approved by its board of education to start up an advanced manufacturing program at Whitmer Career and Technology Center. 

By Sabrina D'Onofrio, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce

Don't let yourself or your business suffer because of the myths that precede the concept of exporting abroad. If you believe exporting is too complicated or unnecessary then you need to register for Export Success, run by the Small Business Development Center at the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce. Export Success helps prepare businesses for global expansion through grant applications, strategy creation and network building.

It’s hard to believe 2019 will come to an end in just three short weeks. Over the past year, your Advocacy and Public Policy (APP) team has been working to improve transportation infrastructure and options, provide access to elected officials and key policy makers, expand career awareness, and advocate for ways to make it easier to do business in the region.

By Tim Schneider, Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce

Have you ever thought about running for office or being appointed to a board or commission? Ever wonder why it seems like there are too many hoops to jump through when doing business with the government? Then the Institute for Leadership & Advocacy might be right for you!

​At its regular meeting at 4:00 p.m. on December 10, Toledo City Council is expected to vote on Ordinance 543-19 which would approve Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz’s request to submit for the March 17 ballot an increase of the city’s temporary income tax from 0.75 to 1.25 percent. If ultimately approved by Toledo voters the tax would be for a period of 10 years and bring the city’s total income tax rate to 2.75 percent effective July 2020. The proposal would allocate 40 percent of the revenue from the 1.25 percent tax for capital spending and the remaining 60 percent for operations, and would eliminate the ability to transfer the capital portion of that revenue for operating expenses. It would not change the existing allocation associated with the 1.50 percent that is permanent. Council must act on the ordinance by December 18 in order for the issue to be placed on the March ballot.

We're proud to welcome the following new members to the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce, who joined in November 2019: