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.
Rid-All Green Partnership's sixth annual Fresh Fest brought Kinsman residents and people from all over Greater Cleveland to the urban farm. The event featured local vendors, activities, and tours of the farm's facilities. Photographer Bob Perkoski captured the events of the day.
Rooms to Let, the annual art program in Slavic Village, has evolved from transforming vacant homes to revitalizing outdoor spaces. The 2025 exhibition will feature 14 local artists and music groups, creating temporary art enclaves on 12 vacant lots to bring attention to urban renewal and the power of art in transforming neighborhoods.
The Greater Cleveland Partnership's Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE) has announced the winners of the eighth season of Cleveland Chain Reaction, a small business pitch competition. Daisy Makes, Be Browed Etcetera, and The Golden Room secured the top three positions.
Season 8 of Cleveland Chain Reaction, the pitch competition led by the Greater Cleveland Partnership's Council of Smaller Enterprises is nearing its finale as 22 semifinalists are competing this week in showcase days. The winners of the cash prizes will be announced at the Aug. 27 finale at the Ariel LaSalle Theater.
EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute hosted a five-course dinner at Grafton Correctional Institution, prepared and served by incarcerated individuals participating in EDWINS owner Brandon Chrostowsski's culinary program. The event showcased the students' culinary skills and the produce grown in the prison's garden, while highlighting EDWINS' mission of providing second chances through culinary education.
Teen entrepreneur Josh Friedlander has turned his passion for cooking and gardening into a successful jam-making business. What started as a pandemic project has grown into a thriving enterprise, with Jam by Josh products now available in multiple stores.
The Greater Cleveland Partnership's Council of Smaller Enterprises has announced 22 semifinalists for the eighth annual Cleveland Chain Reaction small business pitch competition. With a record 141 applications this year, the competition connects entrepreneurs with capital, mentors, and resources. Semifinalists will participate in a bootcamp and pitch their businesses for a chance to win up to $40,000 in prizes.
The Beachland Ballroom, a cornerstone of Cleveland's music scene, celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. Founded by Cindy Barber and Mark Leddy, the venue has become a cultural hub and Collinwood advocate—hosting performances and promoting neighborhood revitalization.
Cleveland native Melody Chu's debut novel, "Mathey Girls" draws from her personal experiences of loss and friendship to tell a compelling story of grief and self-discovery. Chu's own journey has gone from international lawyer to author, and her novel reflects personal themes of enduring friendships and overcoming adversity.
Cleveland Chain Reaction, the annual pitch competition organized by the Greater Cleveland Partnership's Council of Smaller Enterprises, is now accepting applications for its eighth season.
The MidTown Collaboration Center, a new 98,000-square-foot innovation hub in the Hough neighborhood, is celebrating its grand opening with a community block party on May 16. The center, developed by the Cleveland Foundation, JumpStart, KeyBank, and other partners, aims to boost economic activity and create jobs while bringing together multiple organizations focused on community-centered research and programming initiatives.
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.