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August 21, 2026 – Small Nation founder and CEO Jason Duff will bring his experience in entrepreneurship, downtown revitalization, and rural economic development to Caldwell on August 21 as the Village hosts the Small Town Business Growth Workshop. By bringing the workshop to the community, the Village of Caldwell continues investing in the future of its business community by providing entrepreneurs, business owners, property owners, and community leaders with practical ideas for strengthening local businesses and creating long-term economic momentum.

The interactive workshop, presented by Duff, will explore how communities can support local businesses, encourage entrepreneurship, and create memorable experiences that attract customers, strengthen downtowns, and foster long-term economic growth. Drawing on examples from downtown Bellefontaine and successful communities throughout Ohio and beyond, Duff will share proven strategies that help businesses stand out, attract new customers, and build stronger connections within their communities.

Throughout the workshop, attendees will explore practical ideas for building awareness through effective signage and marketing, improving storefront design and curb appeal, creating memorable customer experiences, identifying untapped business opportunities, and learning from trends shaping successful downtown districts. Whether participants are launching a new business, growing an existing one, or exploring their next venue, they will leave with fresh inspiration, proven strategies, and actionable ideas they can begin implementing immediately.

This workshop is made possible through the Mayor’s Partnership for Progress (MPP), a nonprofit organization that brings together mayors, city managers, and local leaders from 27 counties across Appalachian Ohio to share resources, strengthen communities, and address common challenges through collaboration. Since its incorporation in 1996, MPP has partnered with Ohio University’s Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service to equip local leaders with resources, technical assistance, and educational programming that supports long-term community and economic development. By bringing workshops like this to communities throughout the region, MPP continues investing in the people and partnerships that help rural Ohio thrive.

The Small Town Business Growth Workshop is free and open to the public. The workshop will take place on Friday, August 21, from 12:00-2:00PM at the Apex Gaming in Caldwell, OH. Lunch will be provided, and while registration is encouraged, it is not required. Additional event information will be available through the Village of Caldwell’s official communication channels.

Small Nation is honored to partner with the Village of Caldwell and the Mayor’s Partnership for Progress to present the Small Town Business Growth Workshop. Based in Bellefontaine, Ohio, Small Nation develops places, spaces, and dreams for small towns and entrepreneurs across the country through real estate investment, business solutions, and community partnerships that help strengthen downtowns, support entrepreneurs, and create vibrant places where people want to live, work, and visit.