Heather Waits

Business Advisor

Email: hwaits@ohio.edu

Heather is a Business Advisor with the Ohio Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Ohio University. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience as a successful business owner, she helps entrepreneurs and small business owners navigate challenges, identify opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth.

A Central Ohio native, Heather began her entrepreneurial journey at the age of 19 in her hometown of Lancaster. After relocating to the Columbus area in the early 2000s, she founded and successfully grew a small business from $87,000 to more than $1.1 million in annual revenue over a 19-year period. As a business owner, she managed all aspects of operations, including financial planning, forecasting, pricing strategies, cash flow management, marketing, customer relations, and long-term growth planning.

Throughout her career, Heather has advised numerous clients through business planning, budgeting, and operational execution. She has extensive experience building and leading teams, hiring, training, and coaching employees while fostering a culture of accountability and professional growth. Her expertise also includes developing scalable business systems, operational processes, and training programs that support sustainable growth and organizational efficiency.

Outside of her work with the SBDC, Heather enjoys spending time with her twin daughters and two small dogs. Her interests include music, art, writing, and exploring nature through local parks and walking trails.