Despite persistent economic headwinds—from inflation and labor shortages to regulatory pressures and financing challenges—small and mid-sized business owners are reporting record-high confidence in their future. According to the latest semi-annual survey by PNC, 84% of business owners nationwide—and in Central Ohio—are optimistic about their prospects, with rising faith in both national and global economic conditions. What’s driving this surge in optimism? And how are local entrepreneurs turning adversity into opportunity?

Join the Columbus Metropolitan Club for a dynamic conversation with economists, business development experts, and resilient small business owners who are not just surviving—but thriving. We’ll unpack the data behind this confidence, explore the strategies fueling growth, and spotlight the entrepreneurial spirit that’s positioning Ohio as a national leader in small business success. With more than half of Ohio startups surviving five years—placing the state in the top five nationally—this forum offers timely insights for anyone invested in the region’s economic vitality.

Featuring Walter Eguez, Founder, Tortilla Street Food; Stuart G. Hoffman, Senior Economic Advisor, PNC Financial Services Group; Inna Kinney, CEO and Founder, Economic and Community Development Institute; Ariana Ulloa-Olavarrieta, Small Business Coordinator, City of Columbus, with moderator Susan Post, Digital Editor, Columbus Business First.

If you would like to dive more deeply into this topic, our friends at the Columbus Metropolitan Library suggest checking out The New Builders: Face to Face With the True Future of Business, by Seth Levine.

In-Person

Members: $35 ($30 Early Bird until week prior)
Guests: $60
Members: In Room (NO LUNCH): $25
Guests: In Room (NO LUNCH): $30
Members: Reserved Package of 8 Seats: $350

Lunch is served-11:30 am

Forum begins-12:00 pm

Livestream

Free - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTagQr-YfniHI8C5nVH2d9w

Livestream is free and open to anyone, but we appreciate viewers  purchasing a “virtual seat” to help us continue our mission