Akron’s entrepreneurial ecosystem gets new tools to connect entrepreneurs to resources

Akron entrepreneurs now have streamlined tools at their fingertips and the help they need. The Greater Akron Business Navigator was launched earlier this month.

This website is part of the Elevate Greater Akron, an economic development plan for the region. Business Navigator was launched by the Greater Akron Chamber, but the project is a collaboration with his entire Akron entrepreneurial ecosystem, said Brynn Popa of The Chamber.

“We have over 60 organizations as part of this work, with over 200 resources featured on our website,” said Popa.

Supporting organizations include Akron Urban League, Bounce Innovation Hub, Development Finance Authority of Summit County, Downtown Akron Partnership and GAR Foundation.

The website helps connect entrepreneurs with everything from capital assistance to strategies to help find locations and hire staff, making entrepreneurs and the resources they need more efficient. Designed to connect in a unique way. Paige Freel, her senior manager of projects and initiatives, said this was a frustration before entrepreneurs navigated ecosystems.

“People were frustrated because they were going one place and being put through another place and being put through again, right?” said Frill.

It is hoped that the site will provide entrepreneurs with easy access to resources.

“It’s really done under the premise that businesses are busy and shouldn’t ask for help,” Popa said.

This is only Phase 1 of the project. Medina and Portage County resources will also be added to the site in the coming months.

“In phase two over the next three to six months, we will work with our economic development partners in these areas to do similar work to enrich these counties’ resources,” Popa said. increase.

Popa hopes this resource and the rest of Elevate Greater Akron will bring more business to the region.

“This resource is another layer of that support, showing businesses outside the region who may be looking for a new home that our region is where they want to see their success. purpose,” said Popa.