On Tuesday, May 20, COSE members and staff visited the Statehouse to participate in the National Federation of Independent Business's Small Business Day. Topics included the rising costs of healthcare and operating budgets and empowering the younger workforce. Guest speakers  included Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, Ohio Senate President  Rob McColley and Ohio Speaker of the House Matt Huffman.

Particularly, the call for unity between small business owners and our state legislature to empower our youth after high school was strong. Several members advocated for more programming to encourage learning outside a four-year degree. 

"Colleges and universities right now don't have AI majors," COSE Board Chair and entrepreneur Cheryl Perez urged. "So if we can put some of those programs in place before they become 4-year-degree-required types of skills, I think it could really help our small businesses grow."

After an invigorating conversation, the group toured the Statehouse, including visits to Ohio House chambers and the rarely seen Cupola. 

COSE is proud of each member who shared their story and is happy to provide these opportunities for small business owners.

Advocacy and opportunity are what COSE is all about.

View photos from the full visit below.