Entrepreneurs + Innovators
Bob PerkoskiSam McNulty and Andy Tveekrem
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.
Northeast Ohio's bookstores will celebrate the 12th annual Independent Bookstore Day this Saturday April 26. Eighteen local bookshops will participate in the nationwide event, offering a range of activities including author readings, signings, giveaways, and a region-wide bookstore crawl.
Malley's Chocolates and Brewnuts, two beloved Cleveland confectioneries, have joined forces to create a limited-edition Carmallow Egg Donut for Easter. Available for three days in April at select locations, this unique treat combines Malley's signature Carmallow Egg with Brewnuts' yeast-raised donut, topped with milk chocolate icing, Carmallow Egg pieces, marshmallow sauce, and caramel.
Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb declared March 1 "USS Cleveland Day" during the unveiling of the LEGO scale model of the Navy's soon-to-be commissioned USS Cleveland.
The 11th annual Accelerate: Citizens Make Change civic pitch competition drew 32 aspiring entrepreneurs to pitch 24 innovative initiatives in categories like social change, climate innovation, and education. Top honors went to teenage brothers who created a youth employment program for neighborhood services.
Another brilliant day of music, creativity, community, and fire is in the books as #BriteWinter2025 wraps up its Sweet 16th year. Photographer Shawn Brewster recaps the memorable event this photo essay.
Malley's Chocolates, a Northeast Ohio institution since 1935, celebrates its 90th anniversary this Valentine's Day. Malley’s president and CEO Mike Malley explores the company's history, popular confections, and the enduring connection between love, chocolate, and cherished Cleveland memories.
The Cleveland Leadership Center's 11th annual Accelerate: Citizens Make Change civic pitch competition will take place on Thursday, Feb. 20, at the Huntington Convention Center. The 26 participants have the chance to win seed money for their ideas to improve Northeast Ohio.
PERF, a monthly queer-centric house and techno dance party in the St. Clair-Superior neighborhood, is transforming the LGBTQ+ nightlife scene. Created by DJ Joey Sardelle, PERF offers a safe and inclusive space for the queer community to dance, connect, and celebrate their identities. Sardelle has grown PERF, from a bar with music to an outlet for activism and community-building.
The FreshWater staff put together this comprehensive guide for a variety of local Cleveland holiday gift ideas. The list highlights some of our favorite products and experiences from local businesses and organizations to encourage shopping locally.
BlueBridge Networks has evolved from a data center to one of the top comprehensive IT solutions providers in the country under the leadership of Kevin Goodman. As BlueBridge celebrates its 20th anniversary, it continues to adapt to technological changes and maintain its commitment to excellence in IT services and community involvement.
The Grocery at City Goods, a new food-focused retail concept in Ohio City, brings together local food entrepreneurs under one roof. Launched through a partnership between City Goods, JumpStart, and Ohio City Incorporated, the pilot program offers a platform for small businesses to showcase their products during the holiday season and grow their brands.
What started 10 years ago as a high school senior project for then-16-year-old Maria Paparella, has evolved into the thriving Chair-ity—a nonprofit that furnishes apartments for young adults who are aging out of foster care.
Grippy's Sauce Co., a food truck that travels to spots all over Cleveland, was a finalist at the 2024 National Fried Chicken Festival in New Orleans earlier this month. Read about founder Khalid Ali and how his business competed against over 40 vendors as the only Midwest representative.
Upcycle Parts Shop is celebrating 10 years of creativity and sustainability in the St. Clair Superior neighborhood. From saving materials from landfills to inspiring the community with art, the nonprofit recently expanded its space. The shop will celebrate with its Mystic Masquerade fundraiser in November.
Game of dominos, anyone? Join a tournament this weekend while getting a sneak peek of CentroVilla25, the entrepreneurial and Hispanic cultural hub in Clark-Fulton. Meet some of the vendors, enjoy free food and entertainment, and win money in the tournament while supporting the hub, which will officially open later this year.
The third annual FutureLAND Conference, hosted by the City of Cleveland, United Black Fund, and JumpStart, will bring together thought leaders, industry innovators, and content creators to explore ways in which tech shapes the entrepreneur ecosystem and creative economy this Thursday, Oct. 10 to Saturday, Oct. 12 at Playhouse Square.
AloeCLE, founded last summer by mother-daughter team Lena Paskewitz and Miranda Fox-Hervey, grew out of a passion for rescuing and nurturing aloe plants. The school teachers offer hand-glazed pots and aloe plants, while promoting a community of plant enthusiasts with their aloe mama fostering program, pottery workshops, and walks through their AloeCLE Trail at their home studio.
One South Euclid will honor three residents who have worked to better the community with the CDC's annual Hometown Hero awards Mingle at Mayfield event Mayfield Country Club.
The winners of Cleveland Chain Reaction were announced this week on Kickin' It With Kenny, with Balance Cheer and Gymnastics taking first place; Covermecutee in second; and CLE Urban Winery in third among 17 semifinalists.
Loretta Paganini opened her International Culinary Arts and Science Institute 20 years ago to give area culinary students advanced career training. This weekend, local celebrity chefs will help raise scholarship money for the school at the Cleveland's Top Chefs event.