 | Connecting Entrepreneurs to Opportunity, One Business at a Time This month, we’re proud to celebrate Debbie Flores, CBA®, on her three-year Chamber-versary with the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce. As a Certified Business Advisor® with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Debbie plays a vital role in helping entrepreneurs turn ideas into action — connecting them to the tools, resources, and guidance they need to build strong, sustainable businesses |
Driven by Connection and Impact
For Debbie, the work is deeply personal.
“I get a lot of satisfaction from connecting people with information, resources, or opportunities they probably wouldn’t have known existed otherwise,” she shares.
That passion for connection is what brought her to the Chamber — a place where she could make an even greater impact by supporting small businesses across the region.
For Debbie, the work is deeply personal.
“I get a lot of satisfaction from connecting people with information, resources, or opportunities they probably wouldn’t have known existed otherwise,” she shares.
That passion for connection is what brought her to the Chamber — a place where she could make an even greater impact by supporting small businesses across the region.
Supporting Entrepreneurs at Every Stage
In her role with the SBDC, Debbie works with entrepreneurs at all stages — from early ideas to established businesses looking to grow.
“The most common challenges I see are access to capital, marketing, and building a solid business plan,” she explains. “Helping business owners turn their ideas into something real is a big part of what we do.”
Her approach is both strategic and personal.
In her role with the SBDC, Debbie works with entrepreneurs at all stages — from early ideas to established businesses looking to grow.
“The most common challenges I see are access to capital, marketing, and building a solid business plan,” she explains. “Helping business owners turn their ideas into something real is a big part of what we do.”
Her approach is both strategic and personal.
“I treat every entrepreneur with the same level of respect, whether they’re just starting out or already running a business. What changes is the conversation — I tailor it to fit exactly what they need in that moment.”
Turning Vision into Reality
One of Debbie’s most memorable success stories highlights the power of patience, planning, and perseverance.
She worked with a client for several years who had a vision of launching a food truck. Together, they developed a business plan, refined branding, explored financing options, and connected with key resources. The client took a thoughtful, measured approach — testing the concept, securing investment, and building confidence.
“This year she finally did it,” Debbie says. “She launched her food truck… and is already seeing real growth.”
It’s a story that reflects what Debbie values most — helping entrepreneurs build a strong foundation so they can succeed long-term.
One of Debbie’s most memorable success stories highlights the power of patience, planning, and perseverance.
She worked with a client for several years who had a vision of launching a food truck. Together, they developed a business plan, refined branding, explored financing options, and connected with key resources. The client took a thoughtful, measured approach — testing the concept, securing investment, and building confidence.
“This year she finally did it,” Debbie says. “She launched her food truck… and is already seeing real growth.”
It’s a story that reflects what Debbie values most — helping entrepreneurs build a strong foundation so they can succeed long-term.
The Power of the Chamber Network
Debbie notes that the Toledo SBDC’s location within the Chamber creates a unique advantage.
“Most SBDC programs are located at universities, but being part of the Chamber gives us direct access to people and agencies that can really make an impact,” she says.
That connectivity allows Debbie to do more than advise — she can open doors, connect clients to partners, and help navigate the broader business ecosystem.
Debbie notes that the Toledo SBDC’s location within the Chamber creates a unique advantage.
“Most SBDC programs are located at universities, but being part of the Chamber gives us direct access to people and agencies that can really make an impact,” she says.
That connectivity allows Debbie to do more than advise — she can open doors, connect clients to partners, and help navigate the broader business ecosystem.
A Front-Row Seat to Community Impact
Working at the Chamber has also given Debbie a new perspective on the region.
“One lesson I’ve learned is just how many local organizations truly care about Toledo’s economic and social growth,” she says. “The dedication and care that goes into making our city better is something most people never see.”
That behind-the-scenes view reinforces the importance of collaboration — and the Chamber’s role as a hub for connection and progress.
Working at the Chamber has also given Debbie a new perspective on the region.
“One lesson I’ve learned is just how many local organizations truly care about Toledo’s economic and social growth,” she says. “The dedication and care that goes into making our city better is something most people never see.”
That behind-the-scenes view reinforces the importance of collaboration — and the Chamber’s role as a hub for connection and progress.
Advice for Entrepreneurs
When asked what advice she gives most often, Debbie keeps it practical and grounded, rooted in experience — and proven through the success of the clients she serves.
When asked what advice she gives most often, Debbie keeps it practical and grounded, rooted in experience — and proven through the success of the clients she serves.
“Take your time to really understand and organize your business. Invest in strong bookkeeping and marketing from the beginning. And work on your business every day — even small steps add up."
Lightning Round
Favorite Toledo spot: Toledo Museum of Art
Favorite local restaurant: Cousino’s
One word to describe the Chamber: Active
Weekend plans usually include: Visiting the Toledo Farmers Market, spending time with family and friends, and enjoying time with her dogs, Frank and Oliver
Favorite Toledo spot: Toledo Museum of Art
Favorite local restaurant: Cousino’s
One word to describe the Chamber: Active
Weekend plans usually include: Visiting the Toledo Farmers Market, spending time with family and friends, and enjoying time with her dogs, Frank and Oliver
Proud to Serve
“When you have a job that doesn’t even feel like work, it says it all,” Debbie says.
Her passion for helping others, combined with her expertise and commitment, makes her an invaluable part of the Chamber’s work to support small businesses and strengthen the regional economy.
For three years, Debbie Flores has helped bring the Chamber’s value proposition to life — connecting entrepreneurs to the resources they need, guiding them through challenges, and helping them maximize their opportunities.
Please join us in congratulating Debbie on her Chamber-versary and thanking her for the impact she continues to make across the Toledo region.
“When you have a job that doesn’t even feel like work, it says it all,” Debbie says.
Her passion for helping others, combined with her expertise and commitment, makes her an invaluable part of the Chamber’s work to support small businesses and strengthen the regional economy.
For three years, Debbie Flores has helped bring the Chamber’s value proposition to life — connecting entrepreneurs to the resources they need, guiding them through challenges, and helping them maximize their opportunities.
Please join us in congratulating Debbie on her Chamber-versary and thanking her for the impact she continues to make across the Toledo region.
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