We know small businesses and entrepreneurs often aren’t able to afford expert advice when getting started or seeking to expand. Expert advice is critically important so we have created Advising Hours in partnership with the Fostoria Learning Center and our experts who have volunteered their time and expertise to assist you. 

Advising Hours offer free 30 minute advising sessions each month for small businesses and entrepreneurs at the Fostoria Learning Center. 

An appointment is required. 

Meet our Advisors:


General Business Advising

1st Wednesday of each month from 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Don Mennel

Don Mennel, retired CEO of Mennel Milling, the seventh largest grain milling company in the world and headquartered in Fostoria. Don brings a wealth of business knowledge and experience to our advising hours team.

Book an Appointment with Don


Legal Advising

1st Thursday of each month from 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Partners of Lange, Gordon, Rannigan & Claus, LLC

The seasoned legal team at Lange, Gordon, Rannigan & Claus bring a wealth of experience assisting businesses and start ups of all sizes. Whether you need help with forming your legal business entity, employee policy or other business related legal questions, they can assist.

Book an appointment with the partners of Lange, Gordon, Rannigan & Claus


Branding & Marketing Advising

1st Friday of each month from 1:00-3:00 p.m.

Jason Yoakam

Jason Yoakam, owner of JYoakam Communications brings creative and proven branding and marketing skills to our advising team. Jason has worked with businesses of all sizes on brand creation and management, web design and development and ad campaigns both video and print and much more.

Book an appointment with Jason



Have questions? Don’t even know where to start?  Contact us at Sarah@FostoriaChamber.com and we can help!