COLUMBUS – Last year, despite the pandemic, Ohioans created a record 171,073 new businesses.

In January 2021, 16,018 new business filings were filed with the Ohio Secretary of State Business Services Division. This is a 33% increase from January 2020.

“In this new year, full of hope in the face of COVID’s continued threat, Ohioans persist in following their American dream of creating a business,” Secretary of State Frank LaRose said. “Few actions, combined with hard work, can transform a family and provide generational wealth like a small business can. I continue to encourage Ohioans to search out and patronize small businesses in their communities.”

Those looking to start a new business should take advantage of online filing through Ohio Business Central by visiting OhioBusinessCentral.gov.