Ohio ESO Newsletter - Edition #4: MORTAR

Welcome Back to the Ohio Entrepreneurial Support Newsletter!

Hello Innovators and Entrepreneurs,

Welcome to the sixth edition of our Ohio Entrepreneurial Support Newsletter! Our mission is to spotlight the incredible organizations that are fueling innovation and supporting startups across Ohio. This week, we're excited to feature MORTAR , an organization dedicated to empowering historically marginalized entrepreneurs and transforming communities through entrepreneurship.

Spotlight on MORTAR - Building Businesses, Transforming Cities

About MORTAR

Since its founding in 2014, MORTAR has been committed to creating diverse communities by enabling historically marginalized entrepreneurs to access the resources needed to start and run successful businesses. MORTAR believes that entrepreneurship can change lives and instill pride and ownership in communities.

MORTAR’s High-Impact Programs

MORTAR Entrepreneurship Academy

• A 15-week course designed for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to build a comprehensive business canvas and learn business management nuances.
• The program includes culturally competent curriculum, on-site legal support, one-on-one mentorship, and opportunities to pitch ideas to potential investors and community leaders.
• Post-graduation, alumni receive 18 months of additional support, including new customer opportunities and mentorship.

Alumni Program

• MORTAR provides personalized guidance, mentorship, and technical assistance to alumni, helping them start, sustain, or scale their businesses.
• The program aims to counter the high national business failure rate by offering continued support beyond the initial course.

Iron Chest Fund

• Provides underwritten access to funding for MORTAR graduates to help with cash flow, equipment purchases, facility updates, and more.
• Since its inception, the Iron Chest Fund has placed over $900,000 directly into the hands of alumni entrepreneurs.

Building the Dream - The Walnut Hills Headquarters

MORTAR is excited to announce the development of a multi-million dollar headquarters in Walnut Hills, set to open in Spring 2024. This new space will offer co-working facilities and a one-stop shop for business needs, further supporting the entrepreneurial community. This project is a significant step in MORTAR’s mission to create an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem, and we invite the community to join us in building this dream. Learn More (LINK).

Impact on the Community

MORTAR’s efforts have significantly impacted the Cincinnati area and beyond. With over 440 graduates in Cincinnati and operations in 10 other cities, MORTAR has supported an additional 250 graduates. Their goal is to expand to 15 new cities in the next five years, helping entrepreneurs build generational wealth and drive local economies.

Join the MORTAR Community

MORTAR is committed to creating spaces that cultivate a strong sense of community and support for entrepreneurs. For more information about MORTAR and how it can benefit your entrepreneurial journey, visit their website or contact their team directly.

Get Involved!

We are always looking for more organizations to feature. Do you know an entrepreneurial support group making a difference in Ohio? Tag them or nominate them in the comments below. Let’s continue to uncover and celebrate the incredible work happening across our state.

Stay tuned for next week’s feature and join us on this exciting journey to explore Ohio’s entrepreneurial landscape!