BuildingOhio'sstudent-ledunicornsbygivingfoundersmentorship,capital,andacommunityofbuilders.
Our Process
From first contact to unicorn status—here's how we build Ohio's next generation of student-led ventures.
Recruit
We scout and select the most ambitious student founders across Ohio who are ready to build something extraordinary.
Educate
Through hands-on mentorship and proven frameworks, we equip founders with the skills and insights to turn ideas into viable businesses.
Fund
We provide early-stage capital and connect founders with our network of investors who believe in backing students early.
Scale
With ongoing support and resources, we help student-led ventures grow from promising startups to Ohio's next unicorns.
The Ideator
Where your idea becomes a business.
Whether you’ve got a rough concept or a problem to solve, The Ideator program is the place to turn that curiosity into a credible business direction. Over the course of 12 weeks, you’ll refine your idea, validate your market, and learn the essentials of what it takes to build something real.
You’ll Get
Hands-on workshops, expert guidance, and practical tools to refine your idea and understand business fundamentals—everything from pitching to finance.
Who Should Apply
Aspiring entrepreneurs who want to build a business but need guidance on how to validate their ideas, understand the market, and get their hands dirty.
12-Week Journey
Ideation & Validation
Start by refining your idea. Get real-world feedback, validate your concept, and build a foundation that’s solid enough to move forward.
Business Fundamentals
Dive into key business areas: business models, pitching, finance, and strategy. Start to see how your idea fits into the larger startup ecosystem.
Shape Your Vision
Refine your business model, craft your pitch, and develop the strategies you need to launch. Ready to take the next step toward turning your idea into a real business.
How It Works
Weekly Sessions
Structured programming with workshops, founder check-ins, and tactical support to help you move faster.
Progress Tracking
Clear, measurable milestones and regular check-ins to track your progress and stay focused on building momentum.
Mentor Integration
Connect with experienced founders, operators, and investors who provide real-time guidance when you need it most.
Demo Day
Present your traction, learnings, and product to a network of investors, VCs, and partners at Demo Day.
The Accelerator
From 0 to 1, milestone by milestone
The Accelerator is a hands-on, milestone-driven program for founders ready to build a business from zero to meaningful traction. Over the course of 10 weeks, you’ll receive structured support, expert mentorship, and access to the Builders Fund to help fuel your growth.
What's Included
Weekly sessions, founder check-ins, expert-led workshops, structured milestones, and a chance to showcase your progress at Demo Day.
Who Can Join
Current Business Builders members who are actively building a venture and ready to push towards meaningful revenue.
Stay in the loop
Get updates on our portfolio companies, upcoming events, and opportunities to get involved.