Entrepreneurs + Innovators

Sam McNulty and  Andy Tveekrem - photo Bob PerksokiSam McNulty and Andy Tveekrem - photo Bob Perksoki

American author Napoleon Hill said that, "Ideas are the beginning points of all fortunes." True, but good ideas aren't just one-man money-makers -- they can serve as triggers for the kind of economic development that turns around entire blocks, neighborhoods, even cities and regions. In Cleveland, good ideas lead to an ever-growing array of new businesses filling needs across a wide spectrum. From food trucks to got-to-have-it smartphone apps, small start-ups are the lifeblood of a progressive economy. 

Thrive: FutureLAND founder finds inspiration in his father’s grit and drive
The entrepreneurial spirit, curiosity, and determination Kumar Arora learned from his father has led to a successful business career and the cofounding of the upcoming FutureLAND—a celebration of diversity in tech and entrepreneurship in Playhouse Square to help drive economic growth in the area.
Chain Reaction: Applications open for sixth season of small business pitch competition
Greater Cleveland Partnership’s Council of Smaller Enterprises announced that applications are now open for the sixth season of Cleveland Chain Reaction—the small business pitch competition.
Creating a buzz: Entrepreneur uses coffee, local celebrities to help end hunger in CLE
Westlake native Aaron Fazulak recently started All Cleveland Coffee, with $1 of every bag sold online and at Heinen's going to the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. And he got the support of former Browns player Joe Thomas and UFC champ Stipe Miocic.
Q&A: Effie Tsengas Nunes, interim executive director of the Cleveland Arts Prize
Effie Tsengas Nunes was appointed interim executive director of the Cleveland Arts Prize, the organization that awards scholarships and $50,000 in prize money each year to leading artists. Learn about her thoughts and plans for the arts in Cleveland.
Service with a smile: Four generations have kept Gallucci’s Italian Foods going strong
Since 1912 and through four generations, Gallucci's Italian Foods & Market has served customers from all backgrounds and ethnicities with founder Gust Gallucci's original mantra: Sell the best product at the best possible price and provide good service with a smile and a 'thank you.'
Legacy of generosity: Philanthropy is a family affair for Cleveland business leader
For Ken Taylor, president of Ohio Machinery Co., the company's philanthropic tradition, which goes back three generations, is the key to the success of both the business and the community. His philosophy earned him Malden Mills Corporate Kindness Award from the Values-in-Action Foundation.
Make it better: Cleveland makers embrace innovation as a benchmark of growth
Building a transformative technology and forward-thinking are two key elements behind MAGNET's Make It Better: A Blueprint for Manufacturing in Northeast Ohio. Three local innovators—CLEANR, Skuld, and Seraphina Safety—share their tips for success and how they stick to the blueprint.
Riding the high: CWRU professors research the benefits of psychedelic drugs on mental health
Two Case Western Reserve University professors have received a grant to study how psychedelic drugs can address many mental disorders—including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and even addiction.
Run this town: Aimon Ali brings big vision to Cleveland’s fashion scene with The Runway
Aimon Ali is elevating Cleveland's fashion presence with The Runway fashion shows, which showcases local, national, and international designers, and her boutique fashion services and events agency Fashion Talks.
Virtually unstoppable: How Peachtree VA transforms businesses
Executive assistants topped the list of most in-demand job titles for remote and freelance work in 2022. So John McKenna tapped into that need and started Peachtree VA—offering virtual assistants who can work remotely for businesses located anywhere.
Imaginary kingdom: Toys, Dolls and Minis has evolved into interactive store for all ages
Toys, Dolls and Minis owner Dawn Reese launched her store in 2007 as a place where people could shop for her handmade porcelain dolls. As times changed, she evolved into an interactive, yet old-fashioned, toy store where kids get to experience hands-on play. 
The day the music dies: Reflections on Record Revolution closing after 55 years on Coventry
Making its debut on Coventry Road in 1967, Record Revolution has been the hip mainstay on the street for 55 years. Customers, friends, and others involved with the store from the beginning share their thoughts on the iconic store closing its doors next week.
Everyone wins! Terranean Herbs & Spices wins Chain Reaction, three more place second
The 20 semifinalists pitched their businesses to the Cleveland Chain Reaction judges last week and the winners were announced on "Kickin' it with Kenny" at Tower City Center. But there was a slight twist—all 20 came away winners.
Check it out: Holiday shopping ideas with a Cleveland flare
It's peak holiday shopping time. With such talented makers and artists in Northeast Ohio, shoppers don't have to look far to find some unique, locally-made gifts for everyone on the list. We compiled some of our favorites here!
Building on hope: I_You Design Lab aims to give the displaced a sense of home
When his classmates in architecture school were dreaming of building skyscrapers and office towers, Sai Sindondit was dreaming of creating affordable, sustainable, and functional permanent communities to house displaced populations—from the homeless to refugees and disaster victims. With the launch of I_You Design Lab, he has started to fulfill that dream.  
The big pitch: Chain Reaction semifinalists to showcase their companies for judges Thursday
This Thursday, the 20 semifinalists in this year's Cleveland Chain Reaction will pitch their businesses to a panel of judges for a chance to take home one of three cash prizes to help get their businesses off the ground.
Time tripping: Cruise back to the 1950s at The Diner on 55th
For more than 20 years now, Demetrios “Jimmy” Anagnostos has been slinging hash at his Diner on 55th —a breakfast and lunch staple in the St. Clair Superior neighborhood.
Packing a punch: Entrepreneur offers flavors of India with line of finishing spices
Shaker Heights resident Sahithya Wintrich recently found herself craving the savory Indian-spiced breakfasts she grew up with in Southern India. So, she launched Chutni Punch—a line of three finishing spice blends that will please any palette or heat tolerance. 
Ingenuity Cleveland keeps creative fires burning with help from CDC friends
The St. Clair-Superior Development Corporation and Famicos Foundation tout the assets of this cultural melting pot of a neighborhood with community events like IngenuityFest, Ignite! Neighbor Nights, and the hands-on Bal Fundraiser.
Semifinalists announced in fifth season of Cleveland Chain Reaction
Out of a pool of 76 applicants, 22 businesses were named as semifinalists in the fifth season of Cleveland Chain Reaction. The semifinalists were announced this morning on Fox 8 in the Morning's "Kickin' it With Kenny," and they will now pitch this businesses for a chance to win cash prizes and businesses assistance.