First Batch Incubator to provide jump-start for makers, entrepreneurs

Local makers and inventors looking for funding and assistance in scaling and launching a business have a new resource in Cincinnati. First Batch is accepting applications from entrepreneurs seeking production funds, mentorship and business development training. Applications are open from February 17 through March 17.
 
First Batch is a four-month accelerator program that connects inventive entrepreneurs with the resources, training and funding needed to take a prototype to the first batch of manufactured product sales. From June 2 through the end of September, participants will refine existing prototypes, make local connections to supply and distribution chains and receive one-on-one guidance. First Batch will also cover up to $8,000, per participant, of expenses incurred in manufacturing the first round of product.
 
The First Batch program was born from Cincinnati Made—a group of makers and manufacturers that proudly celebrate Cincinnati’s roots as a manufacturing hub.
 
“Cincinnati Made is a nonprofit effort to promote, connect and scale the small batch manufacturing community in Cincinnati,” says Matt Anthony, founder of Cincinnati Made and co-founder of First Batch. “We started the process more than a year ago at a community level to understand the needs other small makers had and how we could better band together to help solve problems and build a local-made identity.”
 
“There has been a lot of national focus in pursuing how to become the next Silicon Valley,” Anthony says. “And while tech funding and digital entrepreneurship is important to growing talent in any city, Cincinnati specifically has a perfect storm of elements that make us great for physical product start-ups.”
 
The Carol Ann and Ralph V. Haile Jr./U.S. Bank Foundation, who funded a pilot of the program last year and continues to support this initiative, also sees this as an opportunity to reshape the city’s future.
 
"The Haile Foundation supports the creation of a viable, local makers community because it delivers on the goals of creative placemaking, diversified economy and local entrepreneurship,” says Vice President and Senior Program Manager of Community Development Eric Avner. “First Batch program is a unique accelerator that has the potential to boost Cincinnati's economic activity, leverage and retain local talent and grow creative enterprise efforts by giving makers an opportunity to scale their businesses."
 
First Batch also partners with Design Impact, a Cincinnati-based creative community development firm, to help with program production, management and outcome measurement.
 
First Batch organizers will host an open house on Thursday, February 20 at Losantiville Design Collective from 6-8 p.m. for those interested in learning more about the program. Losantiville is located at 111 W. McMicken in Over-the-Rhine. Visit www.firstbatch.org for additional information.

By Mike Sarason