Four small businesses in Northwest Ohio received funding assistance in the second quarter of 2026 to support expansion and operational growth. Through the JobsOhio Small Business Grant, $125,000 in funding was awarded, leading to the creation of 27 new jobs and the retention of more than 200 positions.
The grant program helps small businesses accelerate growth by providing funding for projects where JobsOhio’s support plays a key role in making the investment possible. As the lead economic development organization serving 17 counties, the Regional Growth Partnership (RGP) facilitates this program in Northwest Ohio, connecting local entrepreneurs and communities to valuable resources that drive growth and strengthen the region’s economy.
“Through their commitment to this region and the people in our communities, small businesses are the foundation of the Northwest Ohio economy. We are proud to offer our support to these companies, particularly with the JobsOhio Small Business Grant which provides financial assistance to businesses looking to invest and grow their operations.”
– Dean Monske, President & CEO, Regional Growth Partnership
Eligible businesses include those with annual revenues between $100,000 and $25 million, at least one year of operating history within one of JobsOhio’s targeted industries that primarily serve B2B markets, and are planning a qualified investment.
The following Northwest Ohio companies received JobsOhio Small Business Grants in the second quarter of 2026:
- Resource Recycling Inc. (Lima) – Producer and distributor of litter, compost, mulch and soil products, this Allen County business is investing in new machinery and equipment to manufacture biochar to assist with growing soil amendment production demand.
- Cool Machines Inc. (Van Wert) – This Van Wert County company designs, produces, and installs blow-in fiber insulation equipment and spray insulation accessories and removal systems. JOSB Grant will support 12,000 SF expansion to support growing demand.
- Uni-Grip Inc. (Upper Sandusky) – Company is a manufacturer of extruded rubber seals and edge trims for industrial clients including those in the construction and RV industries. This Wyandot County business is expanding operations, constructing a new building and acquiring/relocating a competitive business out of Connecticut.
- Carbo Forge Inc. (Fremont) – A closed-die impression hot forging company, this Sandusky County company is installing a rebuilt press that would allow expansion and create new jobs opportunities.
For Uni-Grip, the acquisition of Cowles, an out-of-state competitor, will solidify the company’s position as the market leader in decorative trim and provide economies of scale and buying power with suppliers.
Uni-Grip Inc.
“Cowles has spent decades building a name people trust in this market. We saw a chance to bring that under our roof and expand on the acquisition of Trim-Gard and our capabilities in the automotive aftermarket segment as well as many other diverse industries that use decorative and protective trim. The JobsOhio Grant provided the funds to assist in moving all the equipment to Ohio. We are very grateful for their support.”
– Andrew Mathias, President, Uni-Grip, Inc.
Since JobsOhio introduced the program in 2020, the RGP has facilitated 147 Small Business Grants across Northwest Ohio, leading to the creation of 636 new jobs, 3,018 retained jobs, and more than $4.5 million in grant funding.
For more information about the program, visit RGP JobsOhio Small Business Grant Program
About the Regional Growth Partnership
The Regional Growth Partnership is the lead economic development organization serving 17 counties in Northwest Ohio. As a private nonprofit development corporation, the RGP is dedicated to fostering regional, national and international business investment opportunities across the region. The RGP serves as Northwest Ohio’s network partner for JobsOhio. Visit www.rgp.org for more information.
About JobsOhio
JobsOhio, Ohio’s private nonprofit economic development corporation, enhances company growth and personnel development through business attraction, retention, and expansion across ten competitive industry sectors. With a team of seasoned professionals, JobsOhio utilizes a comprehensive network to foster talent production in targeted industries and attract talent through Find Your Ohio. Collaborating with seven regional partners, including Dayton Development Coalition, Lake to River Economic Development, Ohio Southeast Economic Development, One Columbus, REDI Cincinnati, Regional Growth Partnership and Team NEO, JobsOhio delivers world-class customer service to provide companies with a competitive advantage. Learn more at www.jobsohio.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and Facebook.