We partnered with Flywheel, Cintrifuse, and the Kroger Co. Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation to present SustainableCincy, a virtual 6-week pre-accelerator program coming this Fall. The focus on sustainability is more urgent than ever, with COVID-19 exposing severe breaches in our system and several recognizable corporate names planting their flag in the ground regarding the importance of these initiatives.
Why Sustainability in Cincinnati?
Cincinnati has a “right to win” in this space. Several initiatives over the past few years have shown that with the proper collaboration and the willingness of the business community, government, and academia to jump-in, success in this space can be obtained. Pete Blackshaw, CEO of Cintrifuse made this case in a recent op-ed featured in the Cincinnati Enquirer. Additionally, our startup incubator program has shown that they can develop companies in this space with the success of Water Warriors, Subterra AI, and others.
What is SustainableCincy?
SustainableCincy is a pre-accelerator designed to help entrepreneurs in the sustainability space develop a viable business model, path to scale, and funding strategies. Six to eight startups will be selected to participate in programming that will include coaching from experienced business professionals, resources from subject matter experts, peer-to-peer learning, and a pitch competition for non-dilutive funding. The program’s impact areas align with 6 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals:
- Zero hunger;
- Clean water & sanitation;
- Affordable & clean energy;
- Responsible consumption & production;
- Life on land;
- Life below water.
Participating founders can be located anywhere throughout the world, but their impact must apply in the Greater Cincinnati region. Strong preference will be given to startups led by people of color and women.
How Do I Get Involved?
Startups interested in applying and participating can apply through August 14th – apply here. We are also looking for sponsors, mentors, capacity-building organizations, and companies with sustainability challenges – you can email aseppi@alloydev.org for additional information regarding partnership opportunities.
To learn more about SustainableCincy visit www.sustainablecincy.com.
