StartupCincy Week 2024 Registration Open for Eighth Annual Event

(US and Canada) Registration is now open for the eighth annual StartupCincy Week taking place October 7-10 in Cincinnati’s historic Over-the-Rhine district. Created by a coalition of entrepreneurs and support organizations, this week-long event celebrates innovative entrepreneurs and the strength of the support network unique to our region. 

"We are incredibly proud of the robust and multifaceted support network that truly distinguishes our community," said Abby Grimm, Director of Engagement and Experience at Cintrifuse and chair of the StartupCincy planning committee. "StartupCincy Week will be a powerful convergence of the region's founders, investors, corporate leaders, and startup enthusiasts, all coming together to connect, collaborate, and thrive."

StartupCincy Week is presented by Cintrifuse, a non-profit that enables transformational growth for venture-scalable founders by providing strategic resources and programming, investment opportunities, and ecosystem support. StartupCincy Week is sponsored by Fidelity Private Shares, P&G, and many other ecosystem partners.

Event Highlights

Each day of StartupCincy Week is thoughtfully curated to cater to distinct segments of our entrepreneurial community, ensuring that every participant finds value and inspiration.

Monday kicks off with a focus on the entire entrepreneurial community, featuring an introduction to the StartupCincy Ecosystem. Attendees can participate in partner workshops and explore startup showcases. This day will spotlight top regional founders, innovators, and champions of entrepreneur support organizations, setting the stage for a week of dynamic learning and networking.

Tuesday is designed for high-growth tech founders, investors, and venture capitalists. The day's events include discussions on the State of Venture in Cincinnati and curated matchmaking sessions for VCs, corporates, and venture-ready founders. Esteemed speakers, including pro-athlete investors, regional venture capitalists, and corporate innovation leaders, will share their insights and experiences, fostering connections that could drive the next wave of innovation.

Wednesday caters to non-tech founders and early-stage startups, providing a wealth of knowledge and practical advice. Events include panels on Getting Started on Your Entrepreneurial Journey, upskilling workshops, and Speed Mentoring sessions. Industry and subject matter experts will offer their expertise, helping nascent entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of starting and growing their businesses.

Thursday brings the focus back to the Cincinnati region as a whole. Highlights include the Chamber Expo and workshops focused on small businesses and CPG businesses. The day will feature regional StartupCincy ecosystem champions and brand leaders who will discuss strategies for collective growth and regional collaboration.

Featured opportunities: 

Startup & VC Connections: Connect with venture scaling startups and investors for efficient and focused networking opportunities.

Curated Networking & Happy Hours: Network with VCs, founders, and innovation leaders nationwide while enjoying great food, drinks, and curated lunch hubs for focused conversations. Plus, join us for happy hours every night!

VentureHaus: A dedicated workspace for VCs to lounge, work and connect with founders all week. Attendees must purchase a VC ticket to get access.

Startup Showcases: Get a behind-the-scenes look at some of the best startups being built and growing in Cincinnati.

Talent Shop: Interactive installation hosted by Cintrifuse Capital’s Head of Network, focused on creating connections between promising talent and innovative employers.

Upskilling Workshops: Join expert-led workshops to gain the latest skills and insights, with hands-on learning and strategies to advance your business.

Key Speakers Include: 

• Brent Gravlee, Entrepreneur In Residence @ Blue North

• Chris Bergman, CEO @ Gylee Games

• D.Sangeeta, Founder & CEO @ Gotara

• Dan Reynolds, Co-Founder & Chief Creative Officer @ Brave Berlin

• Isaac Hamlin, Founder & CEO @ Better Blend

• J.B. Kropp, CEO @ Cintrifuse, Managing Director, Cintrifuse Capital

• Jackie DiMonte, General Partner @ Grid Capital

• Jake Rouse, Co-Founder & CEO @ Braxton Brewery

• Jeanette Renshaw, Partner & Head of Startup Growth @ GrowthX

• Joe Lanni, Co-Founder @ Thunderdome Restaurant Group

• Joe Medved, Partner @ Lerer Hippeau

• Josh Reid, Founder & CEO @ Lunchtable

• Kirsten Moorefield, Co-Founder @ Cloverleaf

• Kristen Schlotman, Executive Director @ Film Cincinnati

• Marcia Dawood, Author, Speaker, & Podcast Host

• Mike Fitzgerald, Partner @ High Alpha

• Rachel DesRochers, CEO & Founder @ Power to Pursue, Incubator Kitchen Collective

• Sherry Sims, Founder @ Black Career Women’s Network & Executive Coach

• Triet Nguyen, Principal @ Render Capital

• Tsavo Knott, CEO & Technical Co-Founder @ Pieces

• Vanny Mwamba, Co-Founder @ Urban Hikers

Why Attend?

StartupCincy Week 2024 is more than just an event – it’s a movement. It’s where the magic and synergy of our support systems come to life. It’s a beautiful fusion of instruction and inspiration, guidance and goodwill. Here, entrepreneurs find mentorship, camaraderie, and the resilience necessary for their journey.

By participating, you’ll engage with like-minded individuals, build meaningful relationships, and gain actionable insights that can propel your startup to new heights. Whether you're a seasoned founder, an investor, or new to the startup world, StartupCincy Week offers something for everyone.

Registration is now open.  Registration is available at three different levels: general admission ($50), corporate admission ($200), and VC Investor ($300) providing curated experiences for each level.