Video: The Concept – Every Great Company Starts as an Idea
In this recorded webinar, our panel of experts discusses turning a big idea into a viable business, touching on a variety of topics to consider during the conceptualization phase of entrepreneurship including: Local resources available for you along your entrepreneurial journey How to create a business plan, including milestones to keep you on track and
From Adversity to Innovation
The disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic is unlike anything we’ve seen in more than a century. We continue to live with the uncertainty of not knowing exactly how this will all play out. Despite this uncertainty, the markets, supplier problems and sales interruptions all businesses are facing right now are some of the same
JumpStart Celebrates Juneteenth, America’s Liberation Day
This Juneteenth, in partnership with our leadership and board, we, as a diverse staff, acknowledge the continued struggle for equity in America. Individually and as a team, we are committed to learning the history and supporting local Black businesses and events commemorating this important holiday. For many African Americans, June 19, 1865, represents America’s true
Core City: Cleveland Impact Program Spotlight
In February 2020, JumpStart kicked off its ninth Core City: Cleveland Impact Program. Then COVID-19 hit, forcing a switch to virtual class sessions and the cancellation of the program’s culminating showcase event. Still, Cohort Nine completed the program. COVID-19 made it impossible for us to connect with these graduates in person, so we sat down
Six Questions with Entrepreneur-in-Residence Ron Stubblefield
Earlier this month, Leaders from the Economic Community Development Institute (ECDI), the Hispanic Business Center, The Presidents’ Council, The Urban League of Greater Cleveland and JumpStart announced Ron Stubblefield as the group’s first shared Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR). A nationally recognized lawyer, scholar, economic development professional and entrepreneurial advisor, Stubblefield acts as a collaborative resource between all
JumpStart’s Commitment to Taking Action Against Systemic Racism
Like so many other Americans, I was deeply saddened and disturbed by the death of George Floyd, alongside the growing list of injustices that have sparked a national conversation about the impact of systemic racism on our society. We’ve had these conversations before, only to fall back into the same patterns. But something feels different
Impact Program Spotlight: Karl Singleton of Foundation Transportation
Launched in 2013, Foundation Transportation caters to business executives and VIP clientele. Run by President and CEO Karl Singleton, the company strives to be a one-stop-shop for a luxury transportation experience, offering top-of-the-line luxury vehicles paired with professional and veteran fleet chauffeurs. COVID-19 made it impossible for us to connect in person with Karl and
Impact Program Spotlight: Katie Melnick of Fizz Creative
Fizz creative is an award-winning strategic design & branding studio founded on the concept that the best brand connections occur beyond the logo. Run by Katie and Jasen Melnick, the company specializes in developing strong, confident visual systems that create more memorable businesses. COVID-19 made it impossible for us to connect in person with Katie
Our Public Commitment to Fighting Systemic Racism
Earlier this week, JumpStart released this public statement amidst the ongoing unrest sparked by the death of George Floyd: JumpStart stands with all Black and Brown Americans, for whom systemic racism has been an ever-present barrier to individual and collective progress. Our mission is to unlock the full potential of diverse and ambitious entrepreneurs to
Impact Program Spotlight: Lisha Navarro of Elite Events & Weddings
Lisha Navarro’s Elite Events & Weddings is a one-stop-shop for event coordination and planning services. Coordinators consult with each client to discover their vision and budget and consider all the senses: sight, smell, sound, touch and taste to create an unforgettable experience that meets the needs of every client. COVID-19 made it impossible for us
Impact Program Spotlight: Abbey Markiewitz & Julia Gramenz of Fetch & Co.
Launched by two stay-at-home moms turned small business owners, Fetch & Co. is a clothing boutique with a mission to make sure women feel beautiful and comfortable in their clothes. Abbey Markiewitz and Julia Gramenz have grown the company by creating highly curated selections that complement each other from season to season and are always
JumpStart Launches New Resources for Latinx Entrepreneurs
As part of JumpStart’s ongoing efforts to make our work as inclusive and equitable as possible, I’m happy to announce two new resources to help the Latinx community engage with our services and get the help they need to help start, pivot or grow their business. Bilingual Telephone Office Hours These office hours work