Entrepreneur Businesses & Organizations in Columbus, OH

Founded in 1988 by a small group of women working in similar areas of the commercial real estate profession, Commercial Real Estate Women Network Columbus has evolved into a vibrant community of over 70 professionals dedicated to advancing women in the industry. What began as informal meetings to exchange ideas and information has grown into a respected organization that serves as the cornerstone for business networking and professional development in the Columbus, OH commercial real estate market. CREW Columbus operates on four core mission pillars: business networking, leadership development, career outreach, and industry research. The chapter regularly hosts events where members connect, learn, and grow together—from luncheon seminars on local and national industry topics to members-only excursions throughout the Central Ohio community. This commitment to fostering meaningful relationships and mutual support has established CREW Columbus as a trusted place where women at every stage of their commercial real estate career can find business guidance, personal education, and genuine connections. As part of the global CREW Network community of 14,000+ members, CREW Columbus extends its impact far beyond the local market while maintaining deep roots in the Columbus area. The organization is particularly committed to strengthening diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout commercial real estate, supporting women and girls entering the field through mentorships, scholarships, and educational programs. For women seeking a supportive community that celebrates achievements, nurtures belonging, and develops leaders in commercial real estate, CREW Columbus represents a respected and inclusive professional home.

Based in Columbus, Ohio, the Columbus Realtist Association stands as the oldest African-American trade organization in the real estate industry, representing a proud legacy of advocacy and service. As a proud member of The National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc., CRA embodies a dual mission of serving underserved communities while developing innovative approaches to housing challenges. The organization has become the voice and conscience of equal housing opportunity advocates, working across civic programs, political arenas, and the business world to ensure that all citizens have access to adequate housing without limitations or restrictions. CRA fulfills a vital role in the Columbus community by addressing the specific needs and barriers encountered by minority home seekers, providing encouragement and practical solutions to those whose housing dreams remain unfulfilled. More than just a professional organization, CRA serves as a beacon of strength and knowledge, building meaningful relationships among real estate professionals and bridging generational gaps within the industry. The association remains committed to securing equal opportunity for all while continuing to pave the way for every home seeker in Columbus to achieve adequate housing and contribute to making the city a better place to live.

Rooted in the mission of bridging opportunity gaps for Black professionals, the National Association of Black Accountants Columbus Chapter stands as a vital community organization dedicated to developing the next generation of business leaders in Columbus, OH. NABA's Columbus Chapter specifically addresses the professional needs of its members while working to build leaders who will shape the future of the accounting and finance profession. The organization recognizes that representation and access matter in the business world, and it actively works to enlarge the pipeline of Black business leaders at every level—from accounting and finance to entrepreneurship and executive leadership. Beyond professional development, the chapter fosters a culture of service and community impact, encouraging members to give back and create positive change in the Columbus community and beyond. Through its Accelerated Career Awareness Program (ACAP), the chapter introduces high school students from underrepresented backgrounds to careers in accounting and finance, while also building financial literacy and interpersonal skills. The Columbus Chapter creates spaces where Black professionals can authentically connect, collaborate, and support one another's growth. By joining NABA's Columbus Chapter, members become part of a nationwide network of over 200,000 professionals united by shared values of excellence, service, and mutual uplift—transforming individual careers while strengthening the entire profession.

Based in Columbus, OH, Blacks In Technology Foundation operates as the official non-profit organization dedicated to addressing systemic underrepresentation of Black workers throughout the technology industry. The organization's mission is to "stomp the divide" between Black tech workers and effect meaningful change in an industry that has historically lacked parity with respect to Black employees and entrepreneurs. Recognizing that Black professionals often find themselves isolated as the only Black person in their department or on their team, the foundation works to level the playing field through comprehensive training, education, networking, and mentorship opportunities. Led by experienced technology and education professionals with lifelong careers in the industry, Blacks In Technology Foundation operates with core values of trust and transparency. The organization partners with allies, sponsors, and supporters throughout the Columbus community and globally to expand access to resources and opportunities. With a decade-long track record of impact, the foundation has established itself as a trusted resource for Black technologists seeking community connection, professional development, and visibility. The organization's commitment extends beyond individual career advancement to influence systemic change across the technology sector, particularly addressing the documented underrepresentation of Black workers in top Silicon Valley companies and throughout the broader tech ecosystem. Through its annual BITCON conference and ongoing community initiatives, Blacks In Technology Foundation continues building a blueprint for world-class technical excellence and innovation.