Main Street Ventures and UC 1819 Innovation Hub collaborate

In a significant step toward advancing our region's burgeoning startup ecosystem, the University of Cincinnati 1819 Innovation Hub proudly announces that Main Street Ventures (MSV), a non-profit capital deployment powerhouse for early-stage technology, retail and product manufacturing companies moved into the building this month. As reported by the Cincinnati Business Courier, the new corporate partnership is set to usher in new possibilities for growth, creativity, and success for Cincinnati’s entrepreneurial trailblazers.

“Main Street Ventures is excited to embark on the next evolution of our organizational journey in partnership with the University of Cincinnati,” said Sean Parker, executive director of MSV. “Moving into a space that is both physically and figuratively on the forefront of making connections and inspiring younger generations, this is a great fit for MSV as we continue raising money to support new and innovative business ideas.”

As the 1819 Innovation Hub continues its mission to cultivate and support groundbreaking ideas, this collaboration with MSV marks an opportunity to continue reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape of the region. Today, Main Street Ventures focuses on providing capital support to empower good ideas, create a diverse and inclusive startup community, attract and retain qualified talent and build resilient businesses with long-term viability. Since 2018, Main Street Ventures has distributed over $3.5 million to more than 160 companies across the Greater Cincinnati region. More than 75 percent of these companies are led by underrepresented founders.

Ryan Hays, UC executive vice president and chief innovation and strategy officer, says, "Main Street Ventures has been a trailblazer for our region’s innovation ecosystem for more than two decades. Their commitment to serving under-represented entrepreneurs ranks second to none. We are honored and excited to welcome them to 1819 and the Cincinnati Innovation District."

MSV strives to equalize entrepreneurship across Greater Cincinnati. Their mission aligns with the 1819 Innovation Hub to provide aspiring industry visionaries with essential support and resources. 

Main Street Ventures joins a lineup of global powerhouses inside the 1819 Innovation Hub, including Procter & Gamble, Co. Kroger Co., Fifth Third Bank and Western & Southern Financial Group.

Featured image at top: 1819 Innovation Hub and Main Street Ventures. Photo/Alisha Sutcliffe