 | Helping Entrepreneurs Move Forward and Strengthening Small Business Success This month, we’re proud to celebrate Michael Tolson, Vice President of Small Business Services and Center Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), on his one-year Chamber-versary with the Toledo Regional Chamber of Commerce. In just one year, Michael has brought strategic leadership, a passion for entrepreneurship, and a strong commitment to helping businesses grow and succeed throughout the Toledo region. |
Leading with Purpose
Michael joined the Chamber in 2025 with a clear mission in mind.
“I saw a great opportunity to take a leadership role in helping entrepreneurs and small businesses in our community,” he says.
That commitment to serving business owners is deeply personal. Entrepreneurship, he explains, is more than a profession — it’s part of who he is.
“Entrepreneurship is in my blood,” Michael shares. “I have many family members that have been or are small business owners. Being able to help current and prospective business owners is in my DNA.”
Michael joined the Chamber in 2025 with a clear mission in mind.
“I saw a great opportunity to take a leadership role in helping entrepreneurs and small businesses in our community,” he says.
That commitment to serving business owners is deeply personal. Entrepreneurship, he explains, is more than a profession — it’s part of who he is.
“Entrepreneurship is in my blood,” Michael shares. “I have many family members that have been or are small business owners. Being able to help current and prospective business owners is in my DNA.”
Helping Businesses Grow
At the Toledo SBDC, Michael works with entrepreneurs and business owners focused on growth and expansion.
At the Toledo SBDC, Michael works with entrepreneurs and business owners focused on growth and expansion.
“Many of our clients come to us with growth in mind,” he explains. “Often this comes in the form of access to capital, marketing plans for increasing customers, and introductions to help navigate a new market.”
His advising approach is intentionally outcome-oriented.
“The first meeting is all about the business’s unique goals and how the SBDC can help achieve them.”
That focus helps ensure every client receives guidance tailored to their specific challenges and opportunities.
Supporting Business Success in the Toledo Region
One recent success story that stands out to Michael is the relocation of Green Products Packaging, a manufacturing company that moved operations from California to Northwest Ohio.
“The Toledo SBDC helped them navigate local regulations and connected them with area companies that provided the services they needed to become operational,” Michael says.
The result was a successful ribbon cutting and another example of how collaboration and business support services can help strengthen the regional economy.
One recent success story that stands out to Michael is the relocation of Green Products Packaging, a manufacturing company that moved operations from California to Northwest Ohio.
“The Toledo SBDC helped them navigate local regulations and connected them with area companies that provided the services they needed to become operational,” Michael says.
The result was a successful ribbon cutting and another example of how collaboration and business support services can help strengthen the regional economy.
Advice for Entrepreneurs
When asked what advice he most often gives entrepreneurs, Michael keeps it simple and practical:
“Be intentional in what you do and keep moving forward.”
That mindset reflects the resilience and determination required to build and grow a successful business.
When asked what advice he most often gives entrepreneurs, Michael keeps it simple and practical:
“Be intentional in what you do and keep moving forward.”
That mindset reflects the resilience and determination required to build and grow a successful business.
A Front-Row Seat to the Business Community
For Michael, one of the most exciting parts of working at the Chamber is the energy and connectivity of the region’s business ecosystem.
“Every day brings a new situation or event that thrusts us into the center of the Northwest Ohio business community,” he says.
From ribbon cuttings and grand openings to economic development events and major Chamber programs, Michael values being part of the conversations and initiatives shaping the region’s future.
He has also been struck by the number of organizations dedicated to helping businesses succeed.
For Michael, one of the most exciting parts of working at the Chamber is the energy and connectivity of the region’s business ecosystem.
“Every day brings a new situation or event that thrusts us into the center of the Northwest Ohio business community,” he says.
From ribbon cuttings and grand openings to economic development events and major Chamber programs, Michael values being part of the conversations and initiatives shaping the region’s future.
He has also been struck by the number of organizations dedicated to helping businesses succeed.
“The biggest thing I’ve learned since joining TRCC is that there are so many community and economic development organizations that exist solely to help businesses,” he says. “Resources are available and ready to help.”
Lightning Round
Favorite Toledo spot: Toledo Museum of Art
Favorite local treat: Donuts from Wixey Bakery on a Saturday morning
One word to describe the Chamber: BUSY!
Weekend plans usually include: Family time, yard work, and church
Favorite Toledo spot: Toledo Museum of Art
Favorite local treat: Donuts from Wixey Bakery on a Saturday morning
One word to describe the Chamber: BUSY!
Weekend plans usually include: Family time, yard work, and church
Proud to Serve
For Michael, serving the Toledo region means helping entrepreneurs pursue opportunities, overcome challenges, and build something meaningful for themselves and their communities.
In just one year, he has already made a strong impact through his leadership, guidance, and passion for small business success.
Please join us in congratulating Michael Tolson on his Chamber-versary and thanking him for the work he does every day to help businesses grow and thrive throughout Northwest Ohio.
For Michael, serving the Toledo region means helping entrepreneurs pursue opportunities, overcome challenges, and build something meaningful for themselves and their communities.
In just one year, he has already made a strong impact through his leadership, guidance, and passion for small business success.
Please join us in congratulating Michael Tolson on his Chamber-versary and thanking him for the work he does every day to help businesses grow and thrive throughout Northwest Ohio.
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