Leader Russo Announces Approval of More Than $9.3M for Entrepreneurial Service Grants in Central Ohio

COLUMBUS - House Minority Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) Monday announced that the Controlling Board has approved the release of $9.3M in state funding to advance the Entrepreneurial Services Providers (ESP) Program in Central Ohio.  

“This investment is a powerful vote of confidence in the ingenuity, grit, and ambition of our local entrepreneurs,” said Leader Russo. “Small businesses are the heartbeat of the district and the engine of innovation across our state. By building a strong, coordinated network of support, we’re giving our start-ups the tools they need to grow faster, smarter, and stronger. With robust collaboration and matching funds, this program will not only bring bold ideas to market but will also create jobs, strengthen our economy, and help shape the future right here at home.”

The ESP Program in Central Ohio represents a comprehensive network of more than 30 partners including the Ohio State University, Columbus State Community College, and Nationwide Children’s Hospital that provide start-up technology companies with mentorship, access to investors and capital, talent recruitment, and business support including legal, tax, and accounting services.

Supported by the Ohio Third Frontier since 2007, Rev1 Ventures, Inc. operates as the ESP lead organization in the Central Ohio region which includes Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Hocking, Knox, Licking, Logan, Madison, Marion, Morrow, Perry, Pickaway, Ross, and Union counties. Rev1 has committed to providing at least $9.3M in matching funds to support the growth of the region’s technology-based entrepreneurs.