Flywheel Social Enterprise Hub, is preparing for two upcoming accelerator programs. Early stage startups with a social purpose are encouraged to apply
Applications are now being accepted for SustainableCincy, an 9-week accelerator program for founders inspired to have a positive impact on the environment. In early 2023, applications will open for Elevate Equity. This program is for underrepresented founders with businesses that address systemic inequities in new ways.
In addition to a stipend of up to $15,000, companies in our program receive private coaching, group support, and specialty training. Topics include market research, customer identification, business and financial models, marketing, legal formation and more. Flywheel also provides dozens of other free business startup services and connections. Participation involves a hybrid of online & in-person coaching, connections, and pitch opportunities to prepare for customers, suppliers, and investors.
Unlike many accelerators, we do not require equity in your company. Our stipends are investments that require no collateral and are paid back over time after your business begins generating income. Please see our website for more details.
Flywheel has been a leader in successfully supporting founders with a social purpose. Over the last three years over 80% of our companies are still in business, 67% of our founders are people of color and 50% are women.
Last year’s Sustainable Cincy cohort consisted of four startups that received a combined $36,000 in non-dilutive funding from Flywheel. One cohort member, Blue Ocean Solids, recently received additional funding from the student-led Social Impact Fund at Miami University, a partner of Flywheel’s. Carbon Harvest LLC, is currently receiving support from Bloomberg Philanthropies to implement a carbon reducing biochar project in Cincinnati.
“The success of the previous two cohorts of SustainableCincy has shown that the City of Cincinnati’s commitment to sustainability and the startup ecosystem makes it a perfect breeding ground for new ventures to grow,” said Josie Dalton, Flywheel’s Program Manager. “Flywheel shares that commitment to sustainability, and believes it can bring your venture to the next level!”