Cleveland Chain Reaction semifinalists announced

Greater Cleveland Partnership’s (GCP) Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE) and JumpStart have announced the 22 businesses advancing to the semifinals of Cleveland Chain Reaction. This small-business pitch competition connects entrepreneurs with capital and mentors and places businesses in Greater Cleveland to create jobs and build prosperity.

A panel of judges representing program supporters — including Medical Mutual, Minutemen Workforce Solutions, COSE, JumpStart and other entrepreneurial support partners — reviewed applications and selected the semifinalists.

“We are always encouraged by the caliber of entrepreneurs who apply to Cleveland Chain Reaction,” says Megan E. Kim, executive director of COSE and executive vice president, small business, marketing and tech initiatives at the GCP. “This program is designed to help business owners build the foundation for the next stage of growth, and we look forward to working with this year’s semifinalists to provide the coaching, education and access to capital that will help them scale, strengthen their businesses and continue creating jobs and economic impact across our region.”

What’s Next?

The semifinalists now go on to participate in an intensive bootcamp. JumpStart’s expert advisors will help them prepare to pitch at a two-day showcase on Wednesday, July 22, and Thursday, July 23, for an opportunity to secure meaningful growth capital: $40,000 for first place, $20,000 for second place, and $10,000 for third place. 

“The exposure and grant money can be transformative, but ultimately we want every semifinalist to be a winner,” says Patty Ajdukiewicz, vice president, small business services and capital, at JumpStart. “The bootcamp gives them the tools for long-term success. Working with an advisor, they develop the strategy, structure, and confidence they need, and leave with connections to resources and the opportunity to continue working with JumpStart through its continuum of programs to support their ongoing growth.”

Semifinalists also gain valuable exposure through Cleveland Chain Reaction’s media partners. Throughout the season, they’ll showcase their businesses and promote their products and services on “Kickin’ it with Kenny” during FOX 8 News in the Morning, and receive coverage in Mimi Magazine and FreshWater Cleveland. The publications will also offer semifinalists discounted advertising rates, and winners will receive complimentary advertising space.

About Cleveland Chain Reaction

Since its inception in 2017, Cleveland Chain Reaction has received 822 applications, coached and prepared 167 small-business semifinalists, connected winning businesses to more than $1.8 million in capital, and provided 740 hours of technical assistance.

Cleveland Chain Reaction is produced by COSE in collaboration with JumpStart and FOX 8 News in the Morning’s “Kickin’ it with Kenny.” This season is sponsored by Medical Mutual, Minutemen Workforce Solutions, MAGNET, and the COSE Benefit Plan. Mimi Magazine is the print publication partner, and FreshWater Cleveland is the digital publication partner.

Visit ClevelandChainReaction.org for more information.

Cleveland Chain Reaction

Greater Cleveland Partnership’s Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE) 

216-621-3300

ClevelandChainReaction.org