Starting a New Business

Starting a new business for the first time can be very overwhelming. The Small Business Development Center at Ashland University (419-207-5568) can be a good starting point. The Center provides individual, confidential counseling and training programs for potential or existing businesses.

New businesses should also contact the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce at 419-281-4584 to discuss SCORE (a free counseling service) and the various programs offered by the Chamber to help local businesses save money.

Key Contacts for Starting a business:

Ohio’s One-Stop Business Permit Center	This provides entrepreneurs with information about licenses and permits required by the State of Ohio.	614-466-4232 or 800-248-4040
The United States Small Business Administration	A great source of information and advice for persons looking to start their own business	800-827-5722
Internal Revenue Service	The I.R.S. has prepared a “starting a business” check list page. Or, you can call the I.R.S. to request a free resource kit.	800-829-1040 Mansfield Office 419-522-9204
Ashland County Auditor	Contact for Vendor’s License and Personal Property Tax form 920 (must be filed within 90 days of starting a new business)	Ashland County Courthouse, Ashland, Ohio 44805 419-289-0000
Ashland County Health Department	Contact for permits for Food or Vending Service or Tattoo or Body Piercing establishments.	110 Cottage Street Ashland, Ohio 44805 419-282-4246
City of Ashland Mayor’s Office	The City of Ashland issues the following types of permits: Rubbish Hauling, Junkyard, Transient Vendor, and Door-to Door Advertising.	206 Claremont Avenue Ashland, Ohio 44805 419-289-8622
City of Ashland Income Tax Office	The City of Ashland has a 1.5% income tax.	218 Luther Street Ashland, Ohio 44805 419-289-0386
Ohio Department of Job & Family Services	Unemployment Insurance New Hire Reporting	419-289-8141 888-872-1490

Related links:

Incentives

Site & building database

Training resource