Here in Ohio, nearly a million small businesses employing 46 percent of the workforce serve as the backbone of the national economy. They currently create two out of every three jobs in the U.S. Through these entrepreneurs’ determination and innovation, local communities are being enriched, adding character to the places where Ohioans live, work and play.

It is because of this impact that since 1963 every U.S. President has proclaimed National Small Business Week to honor small business owners and thank them for their contributions. This year, President Donald Trump proclaimed April 30 to May 6 as Small Business Week, saying that “Small business owners embody the American pioneering spirit and remind us that determination can turn aspiration into achievement.”

On Monday, May 1, the Ohio Small Business Development Center at The Hamilton Mill was honored as the National SBDC of the Year in Washington, D.C., having competed against nearly 1,000 SBDCs nationwide. I ask you to join me and the U.S. Small Business Administration in saluting the entrepreneurial spirit and sharing the SBA’s resources that help small business owners thrive both nationally and in Ohio.

In honor of National Small Business Week here in Ohio, we participated in a series of panels, education sessions and networking events for entrepreneurs and celebrated our winners on May 4 at the North Market in Columbus. It is a pleasure to recognize the small business owners and the hard working supporters of small businesses that make such an impact on our local communities and economies.

It is critical that the nation’s 28 million small businesses continue to thrive and their owners have the skills and resources for success. The SBA supports and advocates for them — whether they’re just starting, looking for financing or a mentor, or want to get to the next level — and we look forward to your continued support in doing the same.

Together, we seized the opportunity the first week of May and beyond to highlight the impact of America’s unsung heroes, our small business owners, and their champions across the state. From Maine to Hawaii, the SBA hosted approximately 250 National Small Business Week events as well as webinars available to all.

Visit www.sba.gov/nsbwor the SBA’s Ohio District website at www.sba.gov/oh/columbus for details on local activities. And, join the social conversation via #SmallBusinessWeek and follow us on Twitter at @SBAGreatLakes.