STATE:

Why NFIB

Take Action

Get Support

Stay Informed

Podcast Podcast

Careers Careers

Join Now

Home / News /

WATCH: NFIB Names Dayton-Area Bowling Center Operator as Small Business Champion for Ohio

May 19, 2023 Last Edit: June 5, 2025

Joe Poelking was honored for being a strong advocate for Main Street businesses

WATCH: NFIB Names Dayton-Area Bowling Center Operator as Small Business Champion for Ohio

NFIB, the nation’s leading small business advocacy organization, has selected Joe Poelking of Centerville as its 2023 Small Business Champion for Ohio. NFIB State Director Chris Ferruso presented the award to him on May 17 at NFIB’s Small Business Day at the Capitol. Poelking operates three Dayton-area bowling centers: Poelking Lanes South, Poelking Woodman Lanes, and Poelking Lanes. Poelking Lanes South became an NFIB member business in 2008. Poelking has served on the NFIB Ohio Leadership Council since 2013. The 37-member council advises the state director on issues facing the state’s small businesses. NFIB presents the Small Business Champion award annually to one of its Ohio members who has given not only their time and resources to the organization but who demonstrates the spirit of service toward the community and a commitment to advancing the concept of free enterprise. “Joe is a tireless advocate for small businesses,” Ferruso said. “His businesses have sponsored NFIB’s Small Business Day at the Capitol, the NFIB Legislative Reception, and other events. He’s a generous donor to the NFIB Ohio PAC, and he’s encouraged others to support the candidates who will support Ohio’s small businesses.” Poelking said he tells other small business owners that it’s important for them to get involved in NFIB. Ferruso said, “Joe is a strong advocate for small business, and he’s built strong relationships with his state legislators and other officials. When he reaches out to them about sensible regulations, tax relief, and other key issues, they listen. “That’s why I’m proud to name Joe Poelking as the 2023 Small Business Champion for Ohio.”

Topics:

Guardian of Small Business

State:

Ohio

Get to know NFIB

NFIB is a member-driven organization advocating on behalf of small and independent businesses nationwide.

Learn More

May 1, 2026

Ohio Auditor Keith Faber Joins NFIB’s Leadership Council Meeting

Faber provided a small business update for members.

May 1, 2026

Ohio Secretary of State’s Office to Host Cybersecurity Conference for Small Businesses

Learn more about the event.

April 28, 2026

Small Businesses Oppose Ban the Box Legislation in NFIB Member Ballot

Owners weighed in on several small business issues

Small Business Owner Calculates Taxes Finance Expensive Inventory Inflation Cost

April 15, 2026

TAX DAY: New Report Highlights Benefits of 20% Small Business Tax Deduction Becoming Permanent in Ohio

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), the nation’s leading small business advocacy organization, released a new report outlining the economic…

WATCH: NFIB Names Dayton-Area Bowling Center Operator as Small Business Champion for Ohio

Related Articles