Elyria Community Partnership’s mission is to revitalize the Elyria community including downtown and its neighborhoods while respecting the history of the city and improving the quality of life for its residents.
We want to establish operational capacity & sustainability, drive downtown development & vibrancy and spur new and restore existing housing.
The residents of Elyria deserve a vibrant, diverse and historic city with neighborhoods rich with community assets and activities, thriving businesses and quality housing for all.
Cleveland SCORE is a national 501C3 nonprofit affiliated with the SBA. We provide free mentoring and educational services to small business startups, nonprofits and owner/operators to help communities thrive. We are partnering with the Metro West CDC helping small businesses in the City of Cleveland.
Small businesses and startups located within the city of Elyria in need of assistance should contact Elyria Community Partnership at hello@elyriatogether.org or Contact Us
Elyria Community Partnership Forum
Elyria Community Partnership, with sponsorship from PNC Bank, hosted a forum on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 11 am to 2 pm. This event catered to new and aspiring entrepreneurs eager to glean insights from established business leaders. Notable participants included SCORE, Ohio Small Business Development Centers, and the City of Elyria.
The keynote address was delivered by Jim Vandemark, proprietor of Vandemark Jewelry, who shared his personal journey within the family business. From humble beginnings to assuming leadership, Jim recounted the strategies and dedication essential for overcoming the challenges inherent in the retail landscape, particularly in recent decades.
Following Jim's speech, a panel discussion ensued, featuring six local business owners from Elyria. They generously imparted their 'secrets to success,' offering invaluable advice on navigating the unique obstacles of establishing and expanding enterprises within the Elyria market. Attendees actively engaged with the panel, posing questions and seeking tailored guidance for their entrepreneurial endeavors.
The event concluded with a delicious lunch showcasing the culinary delights of Foundry Tasty Cuisine, providing attendees with not only nourishment but also an opportunity for networking and further discussion
Stay Ready Small Business Workshop
SCORE Cleveland sponsored the Stay Ready Small Business Workshop at the Lorain County Urban League in Elyria in partnership with the Elyria Community Partnership and the Small Business Development Center at Lorain County Community College. This was held Monday 11/13 from 5:30-8:00.
SCORE mentors (Bob Fedor, John Sonnhalter, Milt Sierra, Deb Myers, Mike Lawson) from the Cleveland chapter led over 20 local business owners in interactive sessions focused on marketing and budgeting issues for small businesses.
We had an amazing turnout and are still hearing great feedback from the business owners that showed up.
Get Free Business Mentoring
SCORE Cleveland offers seasoned business professionals who provide you with useful, timely, and realistic guidance at no cost. Request free small business mentoring assistance directly from experienced Cleveland SCORE volunteers.
Volunteer with SCORE
If you are an experienced business professional (attorney, CPA, marketing, etc) or a small business owner or operator, and are interested in giving back to our community, please consider volunteering with SCORE Cleveland to help our small businesses thrive.
The Startup Roadmap outlines each step in starting a business with detailed information and resources. And with SCORE, you don’t have to do it alone.
