Westown Community Development Corporation (WCDC) has been operating as an independent, incorporated non-profit agency since 1994. It is our goal to promote neighborhood revitalization and long-term stability in the Westown service area (Cleveland’s Ward 11) through the development and implementation of public benefit programs, residential and commercial rehabilitation, neighborhood planning and community engagement.

Village Capital is a nonprofit organization that aims to support impact-driven, seed-stage startups tackling global challenges. It runs accelerator programs worldwide, providing entrepreneurs with mentorship, tools, and investment readiness programs. Village Capital partners with corporations, investors, and entrepreneur support organizations to channel capital towards diverse and impactful businesses. With a global network of over 10,000 mentors and 1,400 entrepreneurs from over 40 countries, the organization works to democratize entrepreneurship by backing underrepresented founders, including women and entrepreneurs of color, who are often overlooked by traditional venture capital. Its mission is to unlock capital for innovative solutions addressing social, economic, and environmental problems.

Navy Federal Credit Union offers a wide range of commercial real estate loans to help businesses grow, whether through the purchase of a new workspace, refinancing of an existing property, or renovation of an investment property. With flexible terms, competitive rates, and personalized service, Navy Federal's commercial real estate lending solutions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

The NSF Seed Fund for Biological Technologies provides up to \$2 million in seed funding for innovative small businesses in the U.S. focused on developing transformative biological technologies, with no equity taken.

The NIH Seed Fund supports innovators in turning their discoveries into health solutions by providing funding opportunities, technical and business assistance, and collaboration with academic institutions. Its goal is to empower scientists and entrepreneurs to bring their discoveries to patients.

The Freshwater Innovation Fund is dedicated to advancing sustainable water solutions through innovative technologies and funding initiatives that address freshwater challenges globally.

CommStar Business Loans offers a range of financial solutions, including business and equipment loans, specifically tailored for members in Lorain, Cuyahoga, Erie, and Huron Counties, with a focus on supporting local businesses and real estate investments.

Greater Cleveland Community Credit Union is a member-focused financial institution providing a range of personal and business banking services, including loans, checking and savings accounts, and credit cards, primarily serving residents of Cuyahoga County.

The Ohio Technology Validation and Start-Up Fund is a state initiative that provides financing and resources to support the growth and development of technology-based startups and early-stage companies in Ohio, with the goal of fostering innovation and economic development.

ScaleCo Capital is a private equity firm that partners with resilient businesses in the Great Lakes region, focusing on workplace safety, compliance, and professional development to drive sustainable growth and operational efficiency.

The City of Willoughby's Tax Incentive Grant Program provides financial incentives to eligible businesses that create new jobs or retain existing jobs, increasing the city's annual payroll and tax revenue.

The City of Cleveland Heights Job Creation Grant Program is designed to stimulate local economic growth by providing financial incentives to businesses that create new jobs in the community.

The Portage Development Board Tax Incentives & Financing provides financial support and tax incentives to businesses in Portage County, Ohio, fostering economic growth and job creation through various loan programs and tax exemption initiatives.

First Ohio Community Credit Union is a community-focused financial institution that has been serving the Stark County, Ohio area since 1937. They offer a full suite of savings, loan, and banking products, along with a mobile app and commitment to community involvement.

The NIST SBIR Program provides competitive funding to innovative small businesses working on cutting-edge R&D projects across a range of critical technology areas, from cybersecurity to healthcare to semiconductor manufacturing.

Blue Point Capital Cleveland is a private equity firm focused on investing in and growing lower middle-market companies, partnering with entrepreneurs and management teams to drive strategic growth and operational excellence.

The Ohio Statewide Development Corporation (OSDC) is a private, non-profit corporation that provides financing to Ohio small businesses by acting as an agent or conduit for public financing programs. OSDC is a Certified Development Company (CDC) licensed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to provide low-cost, long-term SBA 504 loans to eligible small businesses in Ohio. OSDC is also an Ohio 166 Regional Loan Administrator as designated by the Ohio Department of Development.

Ohio VC Fest is a premier venture capital and startup event taking place on September 16-17, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio, focusing on innovation, AI trends, and high-impact networking opportunities for founders and investors.

The City of Lakewood's Commercial Property Revitalization Program provides up to \$30,000 in grant assistance for the renovation of local storefronts, aiming to enhance the commercial landscape and support local businesses.

The Cleveland Foundation is a century-old community foundation dedicated to improving the lives of residents in Cuyahoga, Lake, and Geauga counties through strategic philanthropy and community engagement.