This month’s Beachwood Business Compass podcast explores alternative financing options for small businesses outside traditional banking institutions in Beachwood and the greater Cleveland region. The discussion features the Economic & Community Development Institute (ECDI), a leading SBA microloan intermediary and Community Development Financial Institution, and the Hebrew Free Loan Association (HFLA) of Northeast Ohio, a provider of interest-free loans since 1904. 

Together, these organizations take a holistic approach to lending, supporting small businesses with working capital, debt consolidation, training and certification loans, and other nontraditional financing options. Guests Jasmon Dixon of ECDI and Carrie Miller of HFLA share how their programs go beyond funding to help small businesses grow and succeed.

This episode of Beachwood Business Compass, the City of Beachwood’s Economic Development Department, sits down with Nate Ward, Director of the Global Business Center and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Export Assistance Network, for an in-depth discussion on international business growth.

With extensive global experience across the manufacturing and banking industries, Nate brings insight into today’s export challenges and the expanding opportunities available in international markets. He explores how local companies are successfully navigating sales, logistics, marketing, pricing, research, and product development beyond U.S. borders, and how the SBDC Export Assistance Network is helping businesses identify and pursue new global opportunities.

The conversation also highlights mentorship initiatives and peer collaboratives that connect like-minded companies, fostering shared learning and strategic growth. This episode offers practical guidance and inspiration for businesses looking to expand their reach and compete on a global scale.

In this episode of the Beachwood Business Compass Podcast, we turn the spotlight on women entrepreneurs who are driving job creation and reinvestment across Northeast Ohio. Host David Lapierre welcomes Renee DeLuca Dolan, founder of Contempo Design and Communications, for a conversation about the upcoming Female Entrepreneur Summit—a day-long symposium designed to connect, inspire, and empower women business leaders. Together, they explore how the summit fosters growth opportunities, fuels innovation, and helps women scale their impact in meaningful ways. 

Artificial intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s here, and it’s reshaping the way businesses operate, compete, and grow. In this episode of the Beachwood Business Compass Podcast, host David Lapierre, Executive Director of the Beachwood Area Chamber of Commerce, is joined by Charles Dull, Dean of Computer Science at Tri-C Community College. Together, they preview the upcoming Beachwood AI Summit, offering insights into how AI is already being applied in practical, profitable ways across industries. Listeners will also get a sneak peek at the event’s networking opportunities, live demonstrations, and the innovative solutions that promise to spark new ideas for businesses of all sizes. 

In this episode, Economic Development Director Cathy Bieterman sits down with Bryce Sylvester, Managing Director at CRESCO, to discuss how strategic vision and site readiness are shaping Northeast Ohio’s economic future. The conversation highlights Chagrin Highlands, a premier district along the I-271 corridor, known for its strong mix of offices, medical centers, hotels, and retail. With Beachwood’s acquisition of nearly 43 acres in the area, the city is positioning itself for the next wave of corporate growth. Listeners gain valuable insights into how collaboration, planning, and targeted industry support can drive long-term prosperity across the region.

This month on the Beachwood Business Compass Podcast, we dive into the driving force behind Beachwood’s entrepreneurial momentum. Join us for a dynamic conversation with Ronna McNair, Executive Director of the Center for Entrepreneurs, and Josh Troche, Podcast Connoisseur with Pedal Stomper Productions. Discover how the Center for Entrepreneurs—powered by Cuyahoga Community College—is cultivating innovation, mentorship, and collaboration through hands-on programming and strategic support. From building standout brands to fostering resilient business networks, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiring stories that highlight how Beachwood is shaping the future of its business community through investment in entrepreneurship.

Tri-C Corporate College Center for Entrepreneurs - https://www.tri-c.edu/corporatecollege/center-for-entrepreneurs/index.html

The Podcase Studio Program - https://www.tri-c.edu/corporatecollege/center-for-entrepreneurs/podcast-studio.html

In this heartwarming episode of the Beachwood Business Compass Podcast, we spotlight two remarkable Beachwood High School seniors, Elizabeth Liu, and Radha Pereek, as they share their passion for Hope for Heroes — a student-led initiative that's making a difference across Northeast Ohio.

Born from the innovative spirit of the Beachwood Excel TECC Marketing program, Hope for Heroes harnesses the incredible healing power of facility and therapy dogs to bring comfort, emotional support, and hope to patients, families, and caregivers in hospitals during life's most challenging moments.

Join us as Elizabeth and Radha discuss how this standout project, guided by Marketing Instructor Greg Perry, has evolved into a mission that positively impacts lives and offers local businesses a unique opportunity to give back. Learn how companies can partner with Hope for Heroes to strengthen community ties, showcase their values, and support a meaningful, local cause. 

In this episode of the Beachwood Business Compass Podcast, Beachwood's Community Services Director Derek Schroeder and Graphic Designer Ryan Kennedy explore how local businesses can boost visibility and create meaningful connections through participation in city-sponsored events.

As digital marketing continues to dominate, Schroeder and Kennedy highlight the unique power of face-to-face interactions — building trust, enhancing brand authenticity, and creating lasting impressions. Learn how Beachwood's Community Services Department offers businesses valuable opportunities to engage with the community, sponsor events, and establish a stronger local presence.

Whether you're looking to grow your brand or deepen your roots in Beachwood, this conversation is packed with actionable tips to help your business thrive through community engagement. Don't miss this guide to turning local activities into lasting business success.

In this episode of the Beachwood Business Compass Podcast, we sit down with Katie Van Dyke, Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), to explore how businesses can gain momentum using the SBDC Growth Wheel. 

Katie shares how the SBDC empowers entrepreneurs and business owners across Northeast Ohio with tailored strategies, expert consulting, and connections to key resources like APEX, JumpStart, Bounce, and ECDI. Whether you’re launching a startup or scaling an established venture, tune in to learn how strategic positioning and community support can drive long-term growth.

In this episode of the Beachwood Business Compass Podcast, we sit down with Mayor Justin Berns and the city’s Economic Development Director for an in-depth look at the exciting business opportunities on the horizon for Beachwood. Mayor Berns shares insights into the city’s strategic initiatives aimed at attracting and retaining businesses that align with Beachwood’s emerging industry clusters.

Discover how the city’s proactive approach—driven by thoughtful planning, targeted tools, and collaborative partnerships—is fueling sustainable economic growth. Mayor Berns also discusses the vital collaboration between his administration and City Council to ensure that development efforts enhance both the city’s economy and its renowned quality of life.

From infrastructure upgrades to public safety and accessibility, hear how Beachwood is laying the groundwork to remain a top-tier regional hub for business and innovation. Don’t miss this forward-looking conversation on leadership, strategy, and the future of Beachwood’s economic landscape.