News Archives - JumpStart Inc.

The Cleveland Impact Program Kicks Off Cohort 24 – Meet the Participants

JumpStart Team — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 20:21:53 +0000

Smart entrepreneurs know that sharpening their business skills is part and parcel to long term success. Taking advantage of free resources such as JumpStart’s Small Business Impact Program can help local business owners identify knowledge gaps and receive expert advice in unfamiliar areas.

For 12 weeks, entrepreneurs are immersed in the hands-on accelerator that combines expert advising, mentorship and peer collaboration to help small businesses grow.

The three-month program wraps with a high-stakes pitch competition offering $34,500 in grant capital for first and second place, as well as participation awards for all other graduates. New for 2025, the grand prize winner receives $20,000 to grow their business.

Meet the latest Cleveland cohort of ambitious entrepreneurs working to turn their visions into staples in the Northeast Ohio business community.

Zesty Compass
Zahra Finley, MBA

Zahra Finley is the founder of Zesty Compass Collection and a dynamic entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in corporate compliance, operations, and client relations. Her background in regulatory strategy and operational leadership provides a strong foundation for business growth, strategic partnerships, and scalable systems. Zahra brings this expertise to Zesty Compass, where she leads a purpose-driven brand that merges luxury, intentionality, and community impact in the wine and lifestyle industries.
zestycompass.com

Sand Pebbles
Leonela Mora & Pearl Soyson

Entrepreneur and change consultant Leonela Mora, serves as the COO and co-owner of Sand Pebbles, a bold, health-focused Thai takeout brand known for its vibrant, gluten-free, and MSG-free dishes that celebrate culture and connection. Sand Pebbles is not just about food; it’s about creating an environment where every flavor has purpose, and every customer feels valued. Leonela’s mission is to lead with heart, drive positive change, and build businesses that nourish both people and communities.

Pearl Soyson is the proud co-owner of Sand Pebbles Restaurant, a beloved local dining spot known for its fresh seafood, signature cocktails, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Sand Pebbles has become a community favorite not only for its flavorful cuisine but also for its lively events, including live music nights and seasonal celebrations. Pearl’s goal is to create a space where people feel at home—where every meal is memorable, and every guest is treated like family.
sand-pebbles.com

Uncle Crunch
Lena Wilson

Lena Wilson is the founder of Uncle Crunch, a woman-owned freeze-dried treat business based in Medina. Wilson launched her business in October 2023 and has since expanded the Uncle Crunch production space, partnered with regional retailers, and has had multiple appearances on QVC. Uncle Crunch was born out of Wilson’s love of creativity and a desire to build something joyful and impactful for her family.
unclecrunch.com

sweet bean
Kristin Barnes

Kristin Barnes is the owner and chief chocolate artist at sweet bean, a company that produces gourmet artisan hand-painted chocolate bonbons and other sweet treats. Kristin has been hand-crafting edible art since 2013 when sweet bean was launched from her home kitchen as a side hustle. An artist first and a chocolatier second, she opened a brick and mortar retail studio in Cleveland’s Collinwood neighborhood in 2021. Kristin is a winner of Cleveland’s Chain Reaction (season 3), and a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10, 000 small businesses program (10KSB) (Cohort 30). Some of sweet bean’s premier partners include FLIGHT wine bar, Chuck’s fine wines, and Cleveland Hilton. The company also holds partnerships with boutiques and gift shops across the U.S.
sweetbeancandies.com

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Stark County Business Owner Nina Parr Wins $10K at The Impact Program Pitch Competition

Freddie Coffey — Tue, 20 May 2025 19:44:47 +0000

On May 13, Nina Parr, owner of ParrTakeNCare – a local small business which specializes in weight loss & body waxing – took home the top prize of $10K at the 3rd Stark County Impact Program Showcase.

Nina was one of 5 local entrepreneurs who completed the 12-week business education program and pitched their ventures live on stage to an audience and panel of expert judges.

“The Impact Program isn’t just about pitch night – it’s about building stronger businesses and a stronger community,” says Dan Brown, JumpStart’s Entrepreneur-in-Residence for Stark County. “The growth we see in program participants over 12 weeks is incredible and the Showcase is just the beginning of what these entrepreneurs are capable of.”

Launched in 2016, JumpStart’s flagship Small Business Impact Program is designed to accelerate the growth of the Stark County small businesses that drive local economic impact through job creation, purchasing power and neighborhood revitalization. The program runs three cohorts a year and combines tailored advising with in-depth business training to equip entrepreneurs for success.

While Nina earned first place, the other Impact Program graduates didn’t walk away empty-handed – they each received $2,500 to grow their businesses:

Audrey Ernst of Rolling Refreshments
Tyson White of Top Flight Pasta
Adam Hoover of Main Street Modern
Jenny Bolyard of Ace Carpet Cleaning Co.

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Sonya Patel’s PUR Spices Wins $20K at The Impact Program Pitch Competition

Freddie Coffey — Thu, 08 May 2025 13:52:58 +0000

On May 7, Sonya Patel, owner of PUR Spices, a globally inspired, Cleveland-based company offering a range of small-batch sauces, spices, and craveable snacks like freeze-dried fruits and vegetables, won the top prize of $20K at the 23rd Small Business Impact Program Showcase. Chad Porter, owner of CHVD JUSTIN, won the second-place prize of $7,500.

Held at the newly opened Midtown Collaboration Center, Sonya was among six local entrepreneurs who capped off their 12-week business education experience by presenting to a live audience and panel of judges.

"The Impact Showcase is always an energizing event to attend," says Lauren Smith-Petta, Director of JumpStart's Educational Services. "It's remarkable seeing how far these entrepreneurs have come – confidently pitching their visions and showcasing the skills they've learned throughout the program."

Launched in 2016, JumpStart's flagship Small Business Impact Program is designed to accelerate the growth of Northeast Ohio based small businesses that are looking to scale their businesses and drive local economic impact. The program runs three cohorts a year and combines tailored advising with in-depth business training to equip entrepreneurs for success.

While Sonya earned first place and Chad took second, the other Impact Program graduates did a fabulous job and didn’t walk away empty-handed either – they each received $2,500 to grow their businesses:

Maurissa Thomas, owner of The Golden Room Salon
Mark Wolanzyk, owner of MR PC – Full-Service IT Consultant
Donyae James, owner of International Construction Solutions
Toniqua Walker, owner of A Promise to Care EAST

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Introducing Cohort 3 of the Trailblazer HealthTech Accelerator

Laura Beans Sika — Mon, 05 May 2025 16:59:13 +0000

JumpStart’s Trailblazer HealthTech Accelerator is designed to support pre-seed and seed-stage startups poised to disrupt the health care industry with their innovative technologies. Throughout the 3-month program, participants will work closely with dedicated entrepreneurs-in-residence and subject matter experts as they learn how to quantify clinical and economic potential, build commercialization roadmaps and navigate the regulatory pathway.

Trailblazer Accelerator startups receive access to up to $275K in critical business and product development services through JumpStart’s Preferred Partner Program.

Following a rigorous screening and review process, these ten innovative startups were chosen for the Accelerator’s third cohort. Their technologies address heart failure, postpartum depression, concussions, sepsis and other inflammation-related conditions, spatial disorientation and more.

Headquarters

Headquarters is an AI-enabled virtual concussion clinic.
headquarters.health

nurtur

nutur is pioneering prevention of postpartum depression using AI and clinically validated protocols.
nurturcare.com

TegoSens

In approximately a minute, TegoSens’ innovative, affordable, non-invasive portable device provides direct lung fluid measurements needed to guide therapy for patients with heart failure.
tegosens.com

Seroxo

Seroxo is developing a faster and more responsive biomarker for sepsis and other inflammation-related conditions.
seroxo.com

Vitranu

Vitranu is a biotechnology company developing adjustable extended-release drug delivery technologies to transform treatment in ophthalmology and beyond.
vitranu.com

Resilient Medical

With an emphasis on female medicine, Resilient Medical develops novel implantable medical devices for tissue support. Their technologies include a lumpectomy device that reduces risks, supports healing, and improves cosmetic and mental health outcomes.
resilientmedicalcorp.com

Grai Matter

Grai Matter is a software company which seeks to fundamentally reconceive the healthcare workforce-and-technology value chain and its management techniques.
grai-matter.com

Avionova

Avionova is a medical technology company developing real-time vestibular stabilization devices to prevent spatial disorientation and motion-related impairments in aviation, spaceflight, and healthcare.
avionova.tech

ViyaMD

ViyaMD is a digital health platform that empowers organizations to build custom AI solutions from clinical decision support and intelligent workflows to patient engagement tools using our clinically validated AI framework and a robust library of pre-tuned agents.
viyamd.com

Inovcares

InovCares delivers culturally sensitive maternal and pediatric care including transportation, medication & grocery delivery, remote patient monitoring, virtual consultations on fertility, birth planning, childbirth, mental health, and breastfeeding, and more.
inovcares.health

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Impacto Welcomes Its Seventh Cohort Small Business Owners

Freddie Coffey — Fri, 02 May 2025 19:39:58 +0000

Bilingual entrepreneurs can encounter unique challenges when starting and scaling their small businesses in Northeast Ohio. Along with our partners at the Hispanic Business Center, we facilitate business development programs designed to help Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs of all shapes and sizes.

The Impacto Program is JumpStart’s Spanish-language small business accelerator that offers participants targeted resources, one-on-one coaching and technical assistance. Each week, participants learn key business skills including pricing strategies, digital marketing and managing operations. In addition to building industry-specific skills, participants receive accounting services, access to professional connections and grant capital to help grow their businesses.

Each member of the seventh Impacto cohort runs their small business out of Centrovilla25, a 32,500 sq. ft warehouse-turned-community center in the historic Clark-Fulton neighborhood where their educational classes take place.

Showcasing businesses across various sectors, the entrepreneurs growing their companies in cohort seven of the Impacto program at Centrovilla25 are:

Mariangely Loperena, from Carolina, Puerto Rico, is the owner of Le Beni Esthetics. The business offers facial, body, waxing services, and specializes in lymphatic drainage massages. Le Beni Esthetics was founded with the mission to provide quality services that help women feel comfortable and confident in their own bodies and skin.

Minerva & Angel Torres, owners of Mine Angel Collections, are from Villalba, Puerto Rico. Minerva designs timeless, elegant pieces that seamlessly harmonize with your personal style. Each creation is meticulously crafted using precious stones and crystals, thoughtfully selected for their healing properties, while always respecting and honoring natural resources. Committed to sustainability, Mine Angel Collections offers jewelry that not only enhances your beauty but also reflects a profound connection to the Earth.

Elvia Mezquita, originally from El Salvador, is the owner of Antojitos Salvadorenos. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, Antojitos Salvadorenos offers authentic Salvadoran food and drinks, made with traditional, high-quality organic ingredients sourced directly from El Salvador. The business provides a unique and flavorful experience for all who choose to indulge in the rich tastes of Salvadoran cuisine.

Danielle Chavez, hailing from the heart of Havana, Cuba, is the proud owner of Sazon Criollo. With a deep passion for Cuban cuisine, her mission is to offer an authentic culinary experience that transports the vibrant, bold flavors of Cuba directly to your table. As pioneers in bringing traditional Cuban seasoning to Northwest Ohio, Sazon Criollo is committed to honoring the rich culinary heritage of Cuba, blending time-honored recipes with a modern twist to delight and inspire every palate.

Ivelisse Roig & Bernardino Tovanche, the dynamic owners of Café Roig, bring together the rich cultural heritages of Puerto Rico and Mexico. At Café Roig, they offer a unique experience that transcends the ordinary cup of coffee. Proudly serving high-quality coffee in Cleveland, they focus on sustainability, fair trade practices, and a deep connection to their roots. Each cup is crafted from carefully selected beans sourced from the finest farms and prepared using specialized techniques to preserve its full flavor and freshness, ensuring an exceptional experience with every sip.

Reinaldo De Jesus, a Digital Design Artist, Teaching Artist, Entrepreneur, and Activist, is the visionary behind Vintage & Vaina. Located in Cleveland, Vintage & Vaina is a unique store that blends vintage treasures, collectibles, art, clothing, souvenirs, and merchandise into an unforgettable shopping experience. Celebrating culture and creativity, the store offers carefully curated products that each tell a story. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Vintage & Vaina fosters a vibrant community through collaborations with local artists and hosting community events. More than just a store, it’s a movement of expression, connection, and support for authenticity and sustainable practices

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JumpStart launches Verizon Community Forward Learning Center at Cleveland State University

Freddie Coffey — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 17:48:27 +0000

JumpStart is proud to announce the launch of the Verizon Community Forward Learning Center located at Cleveland State University (CSU), expanding access to cutting-edge technology and credentialing programs. This third center builds upon the successful model of two existing learning centers launched in partnership with JumpStart under the Verizon Community Forward initiative in 2022.

Located in CSU’s Julka Hall, the Community Learning Center has long provided free tutoring and support programs for K-12 students across the region. Now, leveraging JumpStart’s expertise and the momentum gained from operating technology-driven learning centers in Cleveland’s Clark-Fulton and Union-Miles neighborhoods, the Verizon Community Forward Learning Center at CSU will feature expanded resources to serve a broader audience, including college students, adult learners and local small business owners.

“The partnership with Cleveland State University is an exciting opportunity to amplify what we’ve accomplished through our two existing Verizon Community Forward Learning Centers,” said Julie Jacono, CEO of JumpStart. “Together, we are doubling down on technology, expertise, and community-focused programming to meet the evolving needs of students, residents and entrepreneurs across Northeast Ohio.”

The Learning Center at CSU will deliver:

Technology-Driven Learning: State-of-the-art tools to support K-12 students in STEM education and digital skills.
Expanded Workforce Development: Programs offering credentials, workforce readiness and upskilling for adult learners and college students.
Entrepreneurship Support: Technology and training to empower small business owners with the resources they need to grow sustainable ventures.

“The Verizon Community Forward Learning Center is bringing immense value to Northeast Ohio,” said CSU Senior Vice President and Provost Dr. Nigamanth Sridhar. “With JumpStart’s proven track record of delivering impactful programming and CSU’s commitment to community education, we’re creating a resource that bridges technology, education and economic opportunity for individuals across our region.”

“At Verizon, we believe that access to digital tools and education is the foundation for a stronger, more connected community,” says Alex Servello, Associate Vice President, Responsible Business at Verizon. “That’s why we are excited to launch the third Verizon Community Forward Learning Center in Cleveland in partnership with JumpStart, to help empower youth, adults and local entrepreneurs with the technology, skills and resources they need to thrive in a digital economy.”

The launch of the third learning center expands access to technology, digital literacy, and workforce development programming – resources that have proven critical for community residents at the first two centers The collaboration ensures a sustainable and scalable impact, harnessing the unique strengths of all organizations to meet the growing needs of Northeast Ohio’s diverse population. To learn more, visit communityforwardcle.com.

About Verizon Communications Inc.
Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) powers and empowers how its millions of customers live, work and play, delivering on their demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity and security. Headquartered in New York City, serving countries worldwide and nearly all of the Fortune 500, Verizon generated revenues of $134.8 billion in 2024. Verizon’s world-class team never stops innovating to meet customers where they are today and equip them for the needs of tomorrow. For more, visit verizon.com or find a retail location at verizon.com/stores.

About Cleveland State University
Founded in 1964, Cleveland State University is a public research institution located in the heart of Northeast Ohio with 14,000-plus students, 10 colleges and schools, and more than 175 academic programs. Find more information at csuohio.edu.

About JumpStart Inc.
JumpStart is a nationally recognized entrepreneur support organization that equips tech startups and small businesses with the skills, services, and support they need to grow and thrive.

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Introducing the 3rd Cohort of the Stark County Impact Program

Laura Beans Sika — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 16:05:26 +0000

Recently, JumpStart revived business support operations in the greater Canton area. With funding from the Stark Community Foundation and the Stark Economic Development Board, JumpStart established a local entrepreneur-in-residence program and rebooted the Stark County Small Business Impact Program.

Now in its third cohort, the Stark County Impact Program helps local entrepreneurs establish sustainable businesses in Northeast Ohio. For 12 weeks, small business owners receive hands-on education and industry-specific advising in a group learning environment.

The program focuses on helping participants overcome key business issues, with a significant emphasis on financial projections, capital pitches and growth planning. At the end of the three months, the entrepreneurs take part in a live showcase event where they pitch their businesses to a panel of judges. The top pitch will earn a $10,000 grand prize, while all other participants will receive $2,500 to support their business growth.

We’re pleased to introduce the five members of cohort three – follow along to learn more about their stories as they work toward achieving their entrepreneurial goals.

Rolling Refreshments
Audrey Ernst

Rolling Refreshments is a gourmet mobile beverage catering company specializing in unique coffees, mocktails, and a wide variety of exciting beverages. Via our sleek trailer or charming pushcart, we travel throughout NE Ohio attending public events and festivals, or are available for private event bookings.
rollingrefreshments.com

Top Flight Pasta
Tyson White

For the food enthusiast that appreciates but does not have time to make fresh pasta and sauce, Top Flight Pasta will do that for them using the finest ingredients. We make our pasta fresh in a variety of shapes and sizes with exceptional taste and texture.
topflightpasta.com

ParrTakeNCare
Nina Parr

ParrTakeNCare specializes in weight loss and body waxing for the everyday person that doesn’t take enough time for themself. We provide Key weight loss services such as body sculpting and supplemental products such as waist trainers. We deliver our services with compassion, empathy, and treat all of our customers with kindness and integrity.
www.parrtakencare.com

Main Street Modern
Adam Hoover

For those seeking to furnish their space with unique pieces, Main Street Modern is a furniture and home decor destination that eliminates the hunt for the perfect piece by offering 38,000 ft.² of inventory that is expertly sourced.
mainstreetmodern.com

Jenny CAN Cleaning Company
Jenny Bolyard

Jenny CAN Cleaning Company provides a one stop shop for all your cleaning needs for residential and commercial. We are tailored to meet you where you are at, whether it is reoccurring cleaning, one time cleaning or carpet cleaning. laundry service or organizing.
jennycancleaning.com

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Introducing the 23rd Cohort of the Cleveland Small Business Impact Program

Laura Beans Sika — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 17:15:40 +0000

JumpStart's Small Business Impact Program is an intensive accelerator designed to equip entrepreneurs with the support they need to grow their businesses.

Over the course of 12 weeks, entrepreneurs collaborate with peers and the Impact Program team, tackling obstacles together in a group learning environment. Thanks to hands-on advising and industry-specific mentoring, participants graduate the Program prepared to overcome key business challenges.

The experience ends with a pitch competition, where participants put what they learned to the test and present their businesses to a live audience and panel of judges for a chance to take home significant grant funding. New for 2025, the Impact Program will feature a grand prize of $20,000 and $7,500 for the runner up, while all other graduates will receive $2,500 to grow their businesses.

Representing a wide range of industries and backgrounds, these six entrepreneurs in the 23rd cohort of the Cleveland Small Business Impact Program are all working toward achieving their dreams of owning a successful business in Northeast Ohio.

CHVD JUSTIN™
Chad J. Porter

CHVD JUSTIN™ is more than a brand—it is a movement. Founded by visionary entrepreneur Chad J. Porter, our mission is to inspire the next generation of leaders, creators, and problem-solvers by merging creativity, STEM education, entrepreneurship, and community impact. Through transformative workshops and our innovative product, The WEARPACK®, we empower students to dream bigger and achieve more.
www.chvdjustin.com

MR PC – Full-Service IT Consultant
Mark Wolanzyk

At MR PC, we specialize in providing tailored IT support, ensuring businesses of all sizes can access high-quality IT services at a price they can afford. We understand the critical importance of keeping your devices running smoothly, secure, and backed up. Our goal is to offer scalable, flexible, and cost-effective IT solutions for businesses that need dependable support without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, MR PC is here to help streamline your IT operations and keep your business secure and operational every step of the way.
mymrpc.com

PUR Spices
Sonya Patel

PUR Spices is a globally inspired, Cleveland-based company offering a range of small-batch sauces, spices, and craveable snacks like freeze-dried fruits and vegetables (coming soon). Made with wholesome, allergen-free ingredients and no chemical additives or preservatives, our boldly flavored, nourishing products elevate everyday meals to fit your busy lifestyle. PUR Spices is a WBENC and Ohio Proud member.
purspices.com

A Promise to Care EAST
Toniqua Walker

For seniors and individuals with challenges seeking assistance with personal care and homemaking, A Promise to Care EAST offers compassionate, professional, and high-quality services tailored to your needs. Our wide range of services, including personal care, homemaking, and healthcare training, ensures you receive the support required to maintain your independence and safety at home. We are the Gateway to Healthcare Safety.
apromisetocareeastllc.com

International Construction Solutions
Donyae James

At International Construction Solutions we specialize in high quality renovations for public organizations and private corporations, delivering compliant and durable solutions. Our team of skilled professionals is committed to innovation, safety and efficiency. Our start to finish project execution minimizes disruption, guarantees timely completion and within budget. Parther with us to experience a seamless renovation process.
icscleanup.com

The Golden Room
Maurissa Thomas

The Golden Room Salon is a full-service beauty salon where self-care, connection, and expert service come together. As a family-owned business, we are dedicated to providing top-tier beauty and wellness services in a welcoming, relationship-focused environment. Our commitment extends beyond our main salon to senior communities through our retirement home salon hubs, ensuring beauty and well-being remain available to all. Our mission is to be a trusted, long-term partner in in our client’s beauty journey, helping every client look and feel their absolute best.
thegoldenroomsalon.com

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Joe Glick Joins JumpStart Board of Directors

Laura Beans Sika — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 14:23:39 +0000

We are pleased to announce that Joe Glick has joined the JumpStart Board of Directors, effective February 19, 2025.

Joe is a distinguished executive in operations strategy and governance, with a track record of implementing strategies and processes that ensure profitable growth and competitive advantage.

Currently, Joe serves as the Chief Operating Officer at Sequoia Financial Group where he is accountable for firmwide operational strategy, performance management and acquisition integration. He brings extensive experience in corporate finance, portfolio management and regulatory engagement.

In welcoming Joe to the board, JumpStart CEO Julie Jacono highlighted his commitment to regional economic growth and hands-on approach to supporting entrepreneurs: “Joe has a passion for building the vitality of the region and is enthusiastic about rolling up his sleeves to work with JumpStart and our companies. I am excited to have his expertise on our board and focus on helping businesses succeed.”

As you know, JumpStart’s board is key to driving our organizational mission forward. Board members serve as our advisors and ambassadors, helping shape strategy, form strong partnerships, advise leadership, and champion JumpStart’s impact on economic and community development.

“Joe has a passion for building the vitality of the region and is enthusiastic about rolling up his sleeves to work with JumpStart and our companies. I am excited to have his expertise on our board and focus on helping businesses succeed.” – Julie Jacono, JumpStart CEO

“We are thrilled to welcome Joe Glick to JumpStart’s Board of Directors. Joe brings exceptional operational expertise and strategic vision that will be invaluable as we expand our impact across the region,” says JumpStart’s Board Chair José Vasquéz. “Joe’s unique blend of skills and experience represent exactly the kind of varied perspective that drives innovation in our entrepreneurial ecosystem. His appointment strengthens our ability to create meaningful impact and economic opportunities throughout Northeast Ohio and beyond.”

A native Clevelander, Joe has served on several not-for-profit boards across Northeast Ohio, including College Now Greater Cleveland and the Cleveland Leadership Center. He lives in Avon with his wife and son. In his free time, Joe enjoys traveling and distance running.

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Local Business Owner Shay Searcy Wins $10K at the Impact Program Pitch Competition

Laura Beans Sika — Thu, 05 Dec 2024 00:21:03 +0000

On December 3rd, Brensha “Shay” Searcy, owner of Be Browed Etcetera Permanent Makeup Studio & Academy, the only one of its kind in Cleveland, won the top prize of $10K at the 22nd Small Business Impact Program Showcase. Jay.R Fogle, owner of 123 Appz, won the second-place prize of $5,000.

Held at MAGNET’s newly renovated headquarters and community innovation center, Shay was among seven local entrepreneurs who capped off their 12-week business education experience by presenting to a live audience and panel of judges.

Launched in 2016, JumpStart’s flagship Small Business Impact Program is designed to accelerate the growth of the Cleveland-based small businesses that drive local economic impact through job creation, purchasing power and neighborhood revitalization. The program runs three cohorts a year and combines tailored advising with in-depth business training to equip entrepreneurs for success.

“It’s inspiring to see these entrepreneurs onstage, applying what they’ve learned in the program and clearly articulating the future of their companies,” says Lauren Smith-Petta, Director of JumpStart’s Educational Services.

“We are always working to improve and evolve our education programs,” she continues. “This year, we piloted the Impact+ Program for growth-oriented entrepreneurs to harness the power of technology, and in 2025 we’re excited to be able to offer significant increases in the Impact Program’s prize money.”

While Shay earned first place and Jay R. took second, the five other Impact Program graduates didn’t walk away empty-handed – they each received $2,500 to grow their businesses:

Isaac Williams owner of Color Beyond
Gabriel J Rivera owner of GV Drafting & Design Services, LLC
Tamia Casmon owner of On The Go Services
Jennifer Taggart owner of Lake Erie Scoops
Jorge Hernandez owner of Flying Pig Tacos

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