Having a great idea is not enough to start a business. How do you know if you have the essential ingredients for success and how do you launch that idea from the ground? Cincinnati is fortunate to have several programs that address the needs of the nascent entrepreneur. Cincinnati Creates Companies, initially funded by the National Science Foundation has helped 45 new opportunities and had over $5 million in direct and $11 million in indirect economic impact over the last few years. This program provides an educational component on writing a basic business plan, provides business coaches to help incorporate new information into the entrepreneur’s own business plan, and conducts a special business plan competition for anyone who completes the whole program.

The Entrepreneurial Boot Camp, run each spring by C-Cap, has been an invaluable resource to start-up companies looking for feedback on their business plans and how they can achieve their next milestones toward greatness. Growth company entrepreneurs and future entrepreneurs participating in this intense, two-day experience will receive advice from some of the region’s most successful entrepreneurs and business people. Timing is just right for anyone with a burning idea, as the next Boot Camp is scheduled for June 4-5.
Still need help? Each month, the Hamilton County Business Center, in conjunction with the Queen City Angels and local professional advisors, offers Morning Mentoring. This is an opportunity for four companies to give a five-minute overview presentation about their company and then receive one-on-one feedback from at least two Queen City Angels.

Not knowing how to start is not a good enough reason for not pursuing a new venture in Cincinnati.