OhioMBE Statement on the Cancellation of the January 22 Virtual Procurement Fair
Since 2012 • Ohio’s premier procurement connection event
Statement on the January 22 Virtual OhioMBE Procurement Fair
After careful consideration, OhioMBE has made the decision to cancel the January 22 Virtual OhioMBE Procurement Fair, which was scheduled to feature Cleveland-area organizations and agencies.
This decision follows extensive outreach and follow-up efforts that did not result in sufficient cooperation, returned communication, or confirmed participation from several taxpayer-funded organizations and agencies in the region. While interest and registration from small business owners were strong, OhioMBE is committed to hosting procurement fairs that provide real access and meaningful engagement — not symbolic participation.
We understand this decision is disappointing, particularly for our Cleveland-area subscribers who have clearly expressed their desire for more dialogue, transparency, and opportunity. Please know this outcome reflects challenges in institutional engagement, not a lack of interest, readiness, or capacity within the small business community.
OhioMBE will continue to advocate for small businesses, push for accountability, and work to create productive conversations with public institutions. When OhioMBE hosts a procurement fair, it is because we are confident it will deliver value, access, and outcomes for the businesses we serve.
We appreciate the continued trust of our readers, subscribers, and partners and will share updates as future programming develops.
— Ronda Watson Barber
Publisher, OhioMBE
December 2025 OhioMBE Procurement Fair
The final OhioMBE Procurement Fair of 2025 was a strong close to the year — productive, purposeful, and full of real conversations.
2025 close-out recap
- ✔ 30 small business owners from across Ohio
- ✔ 15-minute scheduled one-on-one meetings
- ✔ Conversations focused on contracts, readiness, and next steps
Business owners introduced their products and services, asked direct questions, and began building relationships with organizations committed to supplier diversity.
Special thanks to our hosts
Franklin County Office of Economic Engagement & Community Development and COED.
Organizations who met with small businesses
We appreciate the time and engagement of the following organizations:
Franklin County Purchasing
Upper Arlington City Schools
Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR)
Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
Gilbane
Elford Construction
Ruscilli Construction
Prometrics Construction
Ronda’s note
“Leadership is about creating access — not just talking about opportunity, but building real pathways for small businesses to connect, be seen, and compete.”
— Ronda Watson Barber, Publisher of OhioMBE