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Small Business, Big Resources:

October 1, 2026  |  West Chester Community Development Department
West Chester Community Development Department

Starting or growing a small business takes plenty of determination. It also takes knowing where to turn when you have a question about a new location, zoning, financing, hiring, marketing or that next big idea.  The good news? West Chester businesses have a network of resources close to home.

 

Start with West Chester Township

If you are considering opening, expanding or relocating a business, the West Chester Township Community Development Department is a good place to start. Economic development and property advisors can help businesses navigate zoning, permitting, property use and expansion questions, while also connecting businesses with additional resources.  Sometimes the most valuable first step is simply having a conversation before you invest time and money in a plan.

 

Looking to improve your storefront?

The Township’s Spark Small Business Revitalization Grant was created specifically to help locally owned small businesses make visible improvements to their properties. Past eligible projects have included signage, landscaping, exterior painting and lighting, patios and other improvements that help businesses put their best face forward.

 

SPARK grants have ranged from $1,000 to $10,000 and are provided as reimbursements. Because program requirements and funding are established annually, businesses should check the Township’s website for the next application cycle before beginning a project.

 

Need help with the business itself?

The Ohio Small Business Development Center at Miami Regionals is right here in West Chester at the Voice of America Learning Center. Business owners can access one-on-one counseling, workshops, strategic planning, cash-flow analysis, financial projections, market research and assistance identifying sources of capital.

For networking, local connections and business visibility, the West Chester Liberty Chamber Alliance is another valuable resource.

 

Think beyond West Chester

Some business challenges require a regional toolbox. REDI Cincinnati works with companies on expansion, workforce, incentives, infrastructure and other growth resources. The JobsOhio Small Business Grant provides financial support for eligible projects within one of 10 targeted industries. OhioMeansJobs Butler County can help businesses with workforce-related needs and employment services.

 

West Chester businesses can also take advantage of the I-75 Energy Special Improvement District, which provides access to PACE financing for qualifying energy-efficiency and sustainability improvements such as HVAC upgrades, solar and windows. PACE allows commercial property owners to finance eligible improvements through a special assessment on the property, providing access to long-term financing that can help spread the cost of improvements over time.

 

One conversation can be a good place to start

You do not need to know which program, incentive or organization you need before reaching out. That is part of what economic development is here to do.  If you are thinking about opening, expanding, renovating or simply figuring out what comes next, start with a conversation. We can help point you in the right direction.

 

West Chester Township Community Development Department
9577 Beckett Road, Suite 100
West Chester, OH 45069
513-777-4214