Cultivating the next generation
of culinary entrepreneurs
Findlay Launch is a one-of-a-kind storefront accelerator for food-focused entrepreneurs, based in Cincinnati’s vibrant Findlay Market District. This residency-based program offers 15-month leases in fully equipped, ready-to-operate storefronts, giving participants the opportunity to test and grow their concepts in a real-world setting, surrounded by a thriving community of food businesses. The program is designed to give entrepreneurs the space and support they need to scale up their business—or to quickly recognize when it's time to pivot.
Objectives
The ultimate goal of Findlay Launch is to set up independent food businesses for long-term success that builds diversity and equity in the food industry by lowering barriers, building access to opportunities, sharing knowledge, and expanding community. Specific program objectives include:
Providing mentorship and industry connections
Providing opportunities to support BIPOC-, women-, and immigrant-owned businesses
Providing intentional support for companies to gain real-world experience in a storefront located in a thriving commercial business district
Providing business and operational support
Providing entrepreneurs the space to get to their needed proof of concept more quickly or to fail fast with minimal risk
Establishing an exit plan focused on establishing their next best step, whether their new permanent brick-and-mortar or a modified business model based on their Findlay Launch experiences
Findlay Launch residents will find a knowledgeable team and industry network providing operations, business, financial, and management support. Residents also receive relocation support including identifying opportunities and space and lease agreement assessments to help them find a permanent home after the program, enriching local neighborhoods with businesses that bring people together over the connectors of food and shared experiences.
With an intentional focus on supporting BIPOC, women, and immigrant-owned businesses, Findlay Launch aims to build equity and inclusivity in the food industry by launching diverse, supported, and well-equipped food businesses.
Interested in learning more?
This program was made possible by our incredible donors:
Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile, Jr. Foundation
Duke Energy Foundation
Elsa Heisel Sule Foundation
Farmer Family Foundation
Greater Cincinnati Foundation
PNC Foundation