Press release: Main Street Ventures awards over $450,000 in grants to drive small business growth in Greater Cincinnati

Main Street Ventures, a local nonprofit dedicated to empowering entrepreneurship, has awarded over $450,000 in grants this year to help 30 small businesses grow and scale across Greater Cincinnati. By providing equity-free, non-dilutive funding to entrepreneurs and startups across eight counties within the Tri-State region, Main Street Ventures continues to foster innovation and drive economic growth in the community through Launch and Leap funding.

“This has been a transformative year for Main Street Ventures as we’ve been able to provide over $450,000 in equity-free funding to entrepreneurs and small businesses in Greater Cincinnati,” said Sean Parker, Executive Director of Main Street Ventures. “Companies like these are vital to our region’s economy, and we look forward to seeing them grow, innovate, and contribute to a vibrant Greater Cincinnati.”

Greater Cincinnati companies receiving funding during the most recent grant cycle include:

Azelo is a web-based communication and client management software for therapists which provides solo practitioners and small private practices a way to easily and securely send and share documents, pictures, and videos through text in their client’s preferred language.

Meteora3D is developing an ultra-fast healthcare 3D printer using patent-pending technology for timely fabrication of 3D printed anatomic models to enable the planning of urgent same-day procedures.

AARON Wearable Tech develops a wearable technology that integrates GPS, sound, and vibration to assist caregivers and people with cognitive disabilities, offering a monitored response system for emergencies.

Storms Secured Services is committed to delivering excellence in security and pre-employment services, ensuring peace of mind, safety, and a supportive environment for clients, their customers, and the community.

Skin by Brownlee & Co is a pioneering skincare clinic empowering women nationwide to achieve radiant, blemish free skin through expert treatments and a premium line of transformative skincare products.

Taste of Boujie LLC offers curated charcuterie experiences that bring people together with style and flavor.

Essentia Blooms offers wedding and event floral design services, focusing on intuitive, colorful, and unique designs.

Birdie Bound specializes in cutting-edge golf simulation technology for both seasoned players and novices.

MPI Digital is a startup HR technology company which is being spun out of MPI Consulting, a 50-year-old Human Resource Consulting Company.

Noteworthy Co is a retail shop that hand-makes unique, memorable and notable candles, stationery, and other gifts.

Idyllwild Farm LLC is a four season, USDA Certified Organic Farm in Melbourne, Kentucky, that specializes in year-round salad greens, early and late season tomatoes and curated lilies and Winter tulips.

“We recognize the vital role of collaboration in building a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports even more businesses,” said Parker. “To ensure small businesses have the resources they need to grow and scale, we’re doubling down on partnerships with organizations across the community. By working together, we can create a more supportive environment for entrepreneurs.”

New for this funding cycle, Main Street Ventures is working with Represent Cincy, an organization dedicated to increasing the representation of Black business owners in Over-the-Rhine and downtown Cincinnati. Together, this partnership is aimed at supporting Black-owned businesses with brick-and-mortar locations in these neighborhoods.

“At Represent Cincy, we are dedicated to creating a business landscape that truly reflects the diversity of Cincinnati,” said Lindzie Gunnels, Represent Cincy Board Chair. “By partnering with Main Street Ventures, a like-minded organization committed to empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs, we can expand our impact and provide essential resources—such as capital, mentorship, and professional guidance—to Black business owners. This collaboration not only supports individual businesses but also contributes to the overall growth and vitality of our region.”

Applications for the next cycle of Launch and Leap funding will open in early 2025.

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