Starting a Business in Tiffin & Seneca County, Ohio

Updated 2025 – A Local Guide for Entrepreneurs

Thinking about starting a business in Tiffin or Seneca County? This guide outlines the core steps you need to take, with local contacts and resources to support your journey. From early advice to official registrations, we’re here to help at every stage.

1. Get Free Business Counseling

Small Business Development Center (SBDC) – Terra State Community College

Start with a free meeting to explore your business idea, ask questions, and get personalized guidance. SBDC advisors offer one-on-one support, financial projections, and help with business plans.

Small Business Basics is a free, two-hour seminar that will answer your questions about starting, buying, or expanding a small business. This seminar will take the confusion out of your efforts, and help you to avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary steps. Monthly workshops are held at Terra State Community College 2830 Napoleon Road, Fremont, OH 43420 in the Doepker Leadership & Entrepreneurial Center, Building B, Room 103. Pre-registration is requested.

Contact: Miranda Hoffman, Director
Phone: 419-559-2210
Email: mhoffma05@terra.edu
Website: www.terra.edu/SBDC

2. Get Input from Key Local and Industry Resources

SCORE Northwest Ohio
Free mentoring from retired executives and business owners. Offers in-person and online support.
Website: www.nwoscore.org

Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce
The Seneca Regional Chamber of Commerce exists to enable community businesses and organizations in enhancing their success, serve as a source of information, and advocate for members and economic growth in the area through its core focus on education, promotion, relationships, and resources.
Website: www.senecaregionalchamber.com

Fostoria Area Chamber of Commerce
Supports entrepreneurs in the Fostoria area with networking, events, and local knowledge.
Website: www.fostoriachamber.com

Specialty Assistance Centers
Minority Business Assistance Center (MBAC) – Toledo
Ohio APEX Accelerators – Government contract readiness

Peer & Customer Input
Talk to others in your industry (outside of your market) and potential customers. Use your personal and professional network, chamber events, or market research tools available at the Tiffin-Seneca Public Library.

Professional Associations
Industry organizations can provide market trends, benchmarks, and growth opportunities.

3. Create a Business Plan

A business plan helps you organize your strategy and is often required for financing. Tailor your plan based on your goals, whether you're applying for funding or mapping your startup.

Recommended Resources:
SBA: www.sba.gov/business-guide
SCORE Templates: www.score.org
BPlans: www.bplans.com
Inc. Magazine: www.inc.com

Have a draft? Small Business Development Center advisors can review it with you and offer feedback.

4. Secure Startup Capital

Start Lean
Avoid upfront purchases where possible. Consider renting equipment or shared spaces.

Match Sources to Uses
Align loan terms with the life of the asset (e.g., long-term equipment = long-term loan).

Plan for Working Capital
Budget for at least 12 months of operations before revenue is expected.

Work with a Local Bank
Connect with a banking institution familiar with the local market. Consider meeting with a loan officer early to review your financing options and assess your readiness.

Public Funding Programs

SBA 504 and SBA 7a Loans
These two loan programs are administered through the U.S. Small Business Administration and are commonly used for fixed asset purchases (504) or general business purposes (7a). The 504 program helps businesses finance commercial real estate or large equipment, while the 7a program offers flexible financing options for working capital, refinancing debt, or buying a business.

Ohio Capital Access Program (OCAP)
OCAP is a state-run program that provides loan portfolio insurance to banks, making it easier for them to lend to small businesses that may not meet traditional lending standards. It offers an accessible entry point for startups and entrepreneurs with limited credit history.

Local Revolving Loan Funds
The Seneca Regional Planning Commission offers a Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) and Economic Development Program designed to provide gap financing for local business development. The goal of the program is to create and retain permanent, private sector job opportunities—especially for low- and moderate-income individuals—through the expansion and retention of businesses and industries in Seneca County.

The RLF is considered a lender of last resort and should be explored after other financing sources, such as private lenders, have been considered. Applicants should be aware that the process typically takes two to three months or more due to required environmental reviews, public comment periods, administrative board meetings, and approvals from both the Ohio Development Services Agency and the Seneca County Commissioners. Staying in close contact with the RLF Administrator throughout the application and review process is strongly recommended.

USDA Business & Industry Loans
This federal program, administered through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is designed to support rural businesses. It offers loan guarantees to lenders who finance business development in rural areas, helping to spur job creation and economic growth. Eligible uses include real estate, equipment, working capital, and debt refinancing.

Alternative Capital
Consider crowdfunding or reaching out to regional angel investor networks.

5. Register and Make It Official

Ohio Secretary of State
Register your business name and entity online.
Website: www.ohiosos.gov

Ohio Business Gateway
Get your EIN, set up state tax accounts, and register for Workers' Compensation.
Website: https://ohio.gov/business

Licensing & Permits
Explore state-specific licenses for your business type. A full checklist is available here.

Food Service Permits
Any business preparing or selling food must obtain a Food Service Operation (FS) or Retail Food Establishment (RFE) license from the Seneca County General Health District (SCGHD).

A plan review is required for:

• New food businesses
• Major renovations or equipment updates
• Ownership transfers

• Reopening after 12+ months of closure

Contact: Nicki Rumschlag, Environmental Health
Phone: 419-447-3691 ext. 348
Plan Review Application: Download the 2025 Application (PDF)

Professional Support
Consider hiring a:

• Attorney for legal setup
• CPA for accounting and tax compliance
• Insurance agent to review your business liability needs

Work with professionals who are experienced in small business formation and familiar with Ohio-specific regulations.

Start Here for Help

Need help navigating the process? Start with our office — we’ll connect you with the right people and support you every step of the way.

Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership
Phone: 419-447-3831
Website: www.tiffinseneca.org