COLUMBUS – In December, 13,735 new business filings were filed to the Ohio Secretary of State Business Services Division. With the 2020 numbers now final, Ohioans have created a new record of 171,073 new business filings, surpassing 2019’s record of 130,621 new business filings.

“When this pandemic began, a lot of us thought we were going to see a drop off in new business formation,” said LaRose. “Who would be so courageous and so bold as to go out there and start a small business amidst all of this uncertainty? Well the answer is — Ohio entrepreneurs are! They’ve been doing what they do best – finding ways to creatively serve a need in the free market, and we’ve been happy to be ready to help them get their filing done.”

Last month’s new filings are a 51% increase from December 2019’s number of 9,071 new filings. Overall, total new business filings were 31 percent higher in 2020 as compared to the previous record in 2019.

Those looking to start a new business should take advantage of quick-and-easy online filing through Ohio Business Central by visiting OhioBusinessCentral.gov.

NOTE: New business filings are classified as forms filed with the Ohio Secretary of State that declare the formation of a business entity, including for-profit, non-profit and professional corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships, limited partnerships and limited liability partnerships. Filing as a business in Ohio does not guarantee the company will begin operations, be profitable or create jobs.

QUICK FACTS:

• 13,735 new businesses were created in Ohio in December 2020.
• New business filings were 51% higher than in December 2019 (9,071).
• Total new business filings in 2020 were 171,073,31% more than 2019’s record total of 130,621.
• Ohio entrepreneurs can visit OhioSoS.gov/BusinessResources to discover the helpful opportunities available to them that can help them start and grow their business.