Student teams from the University of Cincinnati, the University of Miami, and the University of Dayton gathered in Union Hall in early February. They showcased their business idea at the third annual Launch It: Cincy pitch contest sponsored by Kao USA Inc. Kao USA Inc. has been the main partner/sponsor of the contest since its inception. PhizzIO, The Recipe Book, and Silux grabbed the top spot and won a prize package worth over $28,000.
For two months during the summer, the founders of these three businesses will participate in the Main Street Ventures Accelerator program, designed to help them focus on their work. From office space to mentoring and financial support, we have everything you need to make your dreams a reality.
MSV’s mission to develop talent and foster innovation aligns with the 1819 Innovation Hub, leading to a collaboration between the two.
Abby Ober, Main Street VenturesAbby Ober, director of engagement at MSV, explained that this partnership answers two questions that are at the heart of MSV’s work. “How do we keep the best talent from local universities in our city for years and decades to come? How do we build a strong pipeline of entrepreneurs?”
These are questions that have a much greater impact on undergraduate students at local universities. When young people with great potential decide to stay or leave a city, local economies, businesses, neighborhoods, and communities are all affected.
In addition to being a geographically central location for grantees, the 1819 Innovation Hub provides access to MSV and the opportunity to partner with students as undergraduates and immerse themselves in Greater Cincinnati’s vibrant startup ecosystem. provide an opportunity.
“We are inspired and energized by the innovation and talent of student entrepreneurs in our region,” said Sean Parker, Executive Director of Main Street Ventures.
Thanks to MSV’s recent partnership with the University of Cincinnati’s 1819 Innovation Hub, the three winning teams in the pitch competition will work with some of the brightest talent in Cincinnati’s business community. Main Street Ventures joins leading companies in the innovation hub, including Procter & Gamble, Kroger, Fifth Third Bank, and Kao USA Inc., to bring their expertise to the doorstep of aspiring entrepreneurs.
Main Street Ventures (MSV), a regional funder, is well-known for providing startups with the funding they need without taking any capital from founders. “We are focused on looking across the region and providing resources to companies that are making an important and positive impact.”
The organization has three focus areas: manufacturing, technology, and retail.
- Learn more about Main Street Ventures.
- Learn more about the 1819 Innovation Hub.
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