History

The Accelerator is a product of the Cincinnati Action Now (CAN) Commission, which was spawned from Cincinnati’s civil unrest of 2001. Out of a recommendation from the CAN Commission, the Cincinnati Minority Business Accelerator was created to address the racial disparities in business ownership in the region, drive economic activity, and increase employment in underemployed segments. The climate and circumstances in Cincinnati during this time not only catalyzed action, but also centered the conversation on economic solutions.

The Accelerator’s initial portfolio consisted of 20 companies with average revenues of $6.7 million. To date, 67 companies with average annual revenues of approximately $30 million have been supported by the Accelerator.

National Impact

Replicating the Accelerator Model

The Accelerator is unique in its model and in its success accelerating the growth of minority-owned businesses – both in the local Cincinnati landscape as well as nationally. The success of the model has galvanized cities nationally, helping to drive local economies and close the racial wealth gap. The impact in our region informs the approach taken in cities and regions across the country.

Greenville

Boston

Tampa

Pittsburg

Wilmington

To deliver best in class results and resources across an extraordinary network of partners, The Accelerator continues to deepen its regional and national relationships. This is a snapshot of some of the key relationships on a national level in which the Accelerator is engaged.