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Tech Startups
We work with high-growth, high-tech startups to navigate commercialization, secure capital, and bring cutting-edge solutions to market.
Read MoreA Letter from our President & Board Chair
We are pleased to present the Entrepreneurs’ Center (EC) 2025 Annual Impact Report. As the region’s venture development leader, we continued our mission to accelerate the growth of entrepreneurial businesses across the Dayton region at every stage—from promising ideas to scaling companies and those attracting capital.
In 2025 alone, EC-supported businesses generated more than $266M in economic impact—momentum that continues to accelerate and build on the more than $1B generated since 2017. These outcomes reflect real stories of innovation and perseverance, from high-growth tech startups to Main Street and neighborhood businesses strengthening Dayton’s economy and positioning our region as a hub for opportunity.
The Core of What We Do
The Entrepreneurs’ Center supports founders across four key focus areas—each designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are and move them forward with purpose.
Small Businesses
We support Main Street entrepreneurs with advising, education, and funding strategies to build strong, community-rooted businesses.
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Arcade Innovation Hub
The Hub Powered by PNC Bank is a collaborative innovation space that brings startups, creatives, and educators together under one roof.
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Launch Dayton
Launch Dayton serves as the front door to Dayton’s startup ecosystem, connecting founders to resources, networks, and one another through events and education.
Read MoreTECH STARTUPS:
Building the Future Right Here in Dayton
Our high-tech clients played a major role in EC’s $1.37B milestone—developing breakthrough technologies, attracting capital, and redefining what’s possible.
Growth That Fuels a Region
EC-supported businesses contributed more than $266 million in impact in 2025, growth driven by strong founders, smart capital, and hands-on support that turns ideas into impact.
$169.2M
in revenue
$53.6M
in equity investment
$25.4M
in non-dilutive capital
Meet the Companies Powering This Impact
These startups represent just a few of the ventures fueling our region’s growth and innovation economy.
Incorporated in 2021, Global Neighbor, Inc. is an agricultural technology company developing directed energy solutions to control weeds and improve crop performance without the use of chemicals. The company secured more than $6 million in competitive government and research grants to advance its technology and has raised $3.4 million in private equity funding. Global Neighbor employs nine full-time team members and has established strategic relationships with industry leaders including Redekop Manufacturing and CNH Industrial to support commercialization. With growing interest from farmers and equipment partners, Global Neighbor continues to position itself at the forefront of next-generation agricultural inputs.
Kilele Health, founded in 2021, is an emerging medtech/healthtech company with ground-breaking wearable biosensor technology that unlocks precision medicine by bringing real-time molecular insights into everyday care for chronic cardiometabolic diseases. The company has secured $3.9M in non-dilutive funds complemented by a $2M Seed round in 2025. This lean startup (5 full-time and 3 part-time employees) as had its tech recognized by OhioX, JumpStart Trailblazer, the Midwest Pediatric Device Consortium, Startup World Cup, the Heart Rhythm Society, SmartHealth Catalyzer, the National Science Foundation, the National Institutes of Health, and others for its potential to impact healthcare.
Founded in 2023, Nabu Optical Systems develops advanced tools for semiconductor manufacturing that dramatically reduce the cost and complexity of chip patterning. Its mask-less technology enables a more flexible path from prototyping to production for customers ranging from research labs to large manufacturers. Nabu is a SoSV/Hax portfolio company, a top 250 global startup in Enterprise Singapore’s Slingshot Competition, and winner of the 2025 EIPBN Startup Competition. The company plans to close a pre-seed round of up to $1M in 2026, with a $5M seed round to follow in 2027.
Founded in 2024, Ravee Optics is developing ultra-compact optical communication terminals that enable high-bandwidth, low-latency data transfer between satellites and from space to ground. Built on advanced planar and meta-optics technology, its systems are designed to expand the capabilities of small satellites. The company is generating early revenue through component sales while closing an oversubscribed $6M seed round to accelerate product development, with an on-orbit demonstration planned for 2028.
Year by Year, Founder by Founder
This momentum, built founder by founder, has powered more than $1.37B in economic impact since 2017. Across all tech and small biz.
$1,370,000,000+
in economic impact since 2017
SMALL BUSINESSES:
Strengthening Communities One Block at a Time
Our Main Street clients are creating impact block by block—opening retail shops, expanding service businesses, and launching restaurants, bakeries, and other neighborhood staples that keep local dollars in local communities.
Support Where It Matters Most
Since 2017, EC has reached thousands of small business entrepreneurs, providing education and personalized support that helps owners thrive and keep communities vibrant.
3,600+
clients served
400+
workshops and trainings hosted
5,000+
total attendees engaged
Local Businesses, Lasting Impact
These small business founders are building opportunity, stability, and pride in the neighborhoods they serve.
Anatolian Grill is a family-owned restaurant in Centerville serving authentic Turkish cuisine inspired by traditional recipes and fresh, high-quality ingredients. Since opening, the restaurant has built a loyal customer base by offering a warm, welcoming dining experience and a menu that highlights the rich flavors of Anatolia. In addition to dine-in service, Anatolian Grill offers takeout and catering, bringing its unique cuisine to a wider audience. Looking ahead, the business plans to continue growing its presence in the community while expanding catering and special event offerings.
Founded in 2025 by Charlesee Woosley, Little Dreams Play Studio is an indoor play space in Dayton designed for young children and their families. Blending imaginative play with a calm, welcoming environment, the studio offers a space where kids can explore while parents connect. Since opening, Little Dreams has built a strong local following through open play, themed events, and partnerships with community organizations. Known for its clean, safe, and engaging atmosphere, the studio has become a go-to destination for everyday play and celebrations, with plans to expand programming and deepen its community impact.
Founded in 2025 by Mike Puckett, Lumo Painting & Design LLC is a Dayton-based creative services company specializing in residential and commercial painting. With more than 20 years of experience, Lumo blends craftsmanship with design to help clients transform their spaces into clean, visually impactful environments. Since launching, the business has gained traction through high-quality work, strong client relationships, and a reputation for reliability. Looking ahead, Lumo plans to expand its commercial portfolio, build strategic partnerships, and continue growing as a trusted, design-forward painting company in the Dayton region.
Founded in 2023 by Amber Broyles, Sukha Inspired Yoga is a community-centered yoga and wellness studio in Englewood, Ohio. Designed to be an inclusive and approachable space, Sukha offers a range of classes and experiences alongside a collective of wellness providers operating within the studio. Since launching, the business has cultivated a loyal following through consistent programming, creative events, and a focus on connection. Looking ahead, Sukha plans to continue expanding its impact through its nonprofit initiative, Karma Inspired Yoga, and by deepening its role as a hub for accessible, community-driven wellness.
THE HUB:
Creating Space for What’s Next
At the heart of Dayton’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is The Hub Powered by PNC Bank—a joint venture between the Entrepreneurs’ Center and the University of Dayton. More than just a historic building, The Hub is a revitalized centerpiece of innovation—home to a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, collaborators, and changemakers.
Innovation Where It Happens
As a catalyst for startup activity and creative collaboration, The Hub continues to fuel economic growth, spark new ventures, and strengthen Dayton’s position as a center for innovation.
160+
member organizations
400+
events hosted since launch
200+
ventures launched or scaled
Launch Dayton:
Connecting the Community
Launch Dayton is the front door to Dayton’s startup ecosystem—offering events, education, and visibility that help founders connect, learn, and grow. It’s where the region’s entrepreneurial community shows up, shares stories, and builds what’s next together.
Where Business Takes Off
Launch Dayton brings together hundreds of founders each year through hands-on education and high-energy events, helping entrepreneurs connect, learn, and take the next step in starting, launching, or scaling their businesses.
900+
event attendees
80
event speakers
360+
students enrolled in programs
17K+
digital community
What Our Partners Say
EC’s work is made possible through collaboration with organizations that believe in the power of entrepreneurship to drive regional growth. Here’s what a few of our partners had to say.
“Entrepreneurship is a powerful driver of community growth, and Entrepreneurs’ Center is at the center of that momentum in Dayton. Through programs like LaunchPad and Startup Week, we’re able to connect directly with founders and support the continued growth of a strong, connected entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
James Carty
Fifth Third Bank, Dayton Market Executive
“Our partnership with Entrepreneurs’ Center is shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs. Through programs like Flyer Nest, students are gaining hands-on experience and launching real ventures—including a $200,000 award-winning team in 2025. It’s a strong example of what’s possible when experiential learning and entrepreneurial support come together.”
Vince Lewis
Associate VP of Entrepreneurial Initiatives; Executive Director, Crotty Center; President, The Hub
“Innovation is essential to building stronger, healthier communities. At CareSource, we invest in solutions that improve health care access and outcomes while driving long-term economic vitality in the communities we serve. We’re proud to partner with Entrepreneurs’ Center to advance that work across Dayton and Ohio.”
Ellen Miller
CareSource Foundation, Vice President
“Our partnership with Entrepreneurs’ Center strengthens onMain’s ability to advance innovation and commercialization for our members and partners. Together, we’re expanding opportunities for founders and delivering greater value to our members, stakeholders, and the broader community.”
Brian Heitkamp
onMain, CEO
“At Winsupply, we succeed when the entrepreneurs we support succeed. That shared mindset is what makes our partnership with Entrepreneurs’ Center so impactful. Together, we’re helping business owners access the resources they need to grow while strengthening the entrepreneurial spirit across the region.”
Robert DiTommaso
Winsupply, President, Services Group
What’s Next Starts Here
$1.33B in impact is only the beginning. Entrepreneurs’ Center continues to support founders who are building, scaling, and shaping the future of our region’s economy. Whether you’re ready to grow your business, partner in this work, or support the next generation of entrepreneurs, there’s a place for you in what comes next.
We’re just getting started. The next billion is already taking shape.
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