CELEBRATING GROWTH AND PREPARING FOR OUR FUTURE

JumpStart launched as a venture development organization in 2004. While the organization has evolved over the past two decades, we’ve stayed true to our original vision of unlocking the transformational power of entrepreneurship to reverse economic decline and catalyze innovative growth in Ohio.

Our work investing in and providing services to early-stage technology startups originated as a compelling area of focus shared amongst our public, private and philanthropic institutions. This work immediately demonstrated its value, creating economic growth and attracting state funding into the region to grow a thriving startup ecosystem.

At the time, JumpStart was one of only a handful of U.S. nonprofits that combined the principles of venture capital investing and economic development to drive regional sustainability. Even as venture capital-driven tech economies skyrocketed on the coasts in the early-2000s, Ohio had only a modest amount of venture capital available to early-stage startups.

Today, Ohio has more than $3B under management across multiple funds with the promise to double this amount in the coming years.

JumpStart Ventures, our division focused on tech startup investing, has become one of the Midwest’s most active early-stage investors. At this same time, JumpStart has learned to envision, curate and integrate robust entrepreneurial ecosystems. Today, JumpStart provides capital, services and connections to support tech startups, small businesses and corporate innovation teams.

As I reflect on the many individuals and organizations who’ve partnered to support Ohio’s innovation ecosystem, I am humbled by what we’ve achieved.

I am also excited to see how what we’ve established together will help us overcome inevitable challenges and propel Ohio into a more promising future.

ray leach Chief Executive Officer

Entrepreneurs spark economic vitality throughout our communities, restoring neighborhoods with vibrant storefronts and creative workspaces, and generating substantial impact through job creation, tax contributions and purchasing power.

From startup founders and small business owners to corporate innovation teams, the entrepreneurial spirit helps solve challenges with a fresh perspective. Entrepreneurs take bold risks. And they clear the path for entire industries.

We provide capital, services and connections to help entrepreneurs chart their path to growth, surrounding them with the people and resources they need to go further, faster.

This unique combination of resources fuels personalized support to startup founders and small business owners, meeting them where they are and sparking positive change for equitable economic outcomes.