So, you have a dream. Maybe it’s a cozy boutique with a curated collection of local goods, or a bistro that fills the square with the smell of fresh coffee and pastries. You can see the storefront in your mind—preferably right here in the Kenton Historic Courthouse District.

But here is the reality check: A dream without a plan is just a wish.

At the Alliance, we see a lot of passion. However, we also see a common misconception: that starting a small business is as simple as finding a space, getting a grant, and turning the key. In truth, the most successful businesses in Hardin County are those that did the "boring" work long before they ever hung a sign in the window.

The "Ready to Launch" Checklist

Before you look for a lease or a loan, you should be able to check off these boxes:

• [ ] Market Research: Does Kenton need this? Who is your customer, and what are they willing to pay?
• [ ] A Solid Business Plan: This is your roadmap. If you can’t explain your business on paper, you can’t run it in person.
• [ ] Capital & Financial Runway: Grants are rare and highly competitive. Most businesses start with personal savings, a bank loan, or investors. Do you have 6–12 months of operating costs saved?
• [ ] Legal & Regulatory Prep: Have you registered your name with the Secretary of State? Do you have an EIN? Do you understand the zoning requirements for downtown Kenton?

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• The "Grant Myth": Many believe there are "free money" grants just waiting to be handed out. Most financial support comes in the form of low-interest loans or reimbursement grants that require you to spend your own capital first.
• Skipping the Marketing Plan: "If you build it, they will come" only works in the movies. You need a strategy to get people through the door from Day 1.
• Underestimating Costs: Renovating historic spaces is rewarding, but it can come with surprises. Always budget for more than you think you’ll need.

Your Secret Weapon: The SBDC

You don’t have to do this alone. One of the best resources available to you is the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Rhodes State College.

The SBDC provides free, confidential, one-on-one counseling for new entrepreneurs. They can help you with:

• Business start-up planning and training.
• Market research and financial analysis.
• Loan packaging assistance.

Contact the SBDC at Rhodes State:

• Phone: 419-995-8032
• Website:rhodesstate.edu/sbdc (or visit the Ohio SBDC site)

Join the Heart of Kenton

The Kenton Historic Courthouse District (KHCD) is looking for the right mix of retail and dining to join our vibrant community. We aren't looking for "turnkey" owners; we are looking for partners who are ready to invest their heart and soul into our historic downtown.

If you have done the prep work and are ready to talk about locations, reach out to us at the Alliance. Let’s build something lasting together.

Hardin County Chamber & Business Alliance

225 South Detroit Street, Kenton, OH 43326

419-673-4131 | hccba.com