OHIO ENTREPRENEURIAL SERVICES PROVIDER PROGRAM (ESP)
The Business Incubator is sponsored and managed through a collaborative partnership between the Ohio Third Frontier, The University of Toledo, and Jumpstart Inc., called the Entrepreneurial Services Provider (ESP) Program.
The goal of the Ohio ESP Program is to significantly increase the positive technology-based entrepreneurial commercialization outcomes in Ohio. Efforts are focused on strategic technology-based sectors that offer exceptional economic development prospects.
Our connections within this program provide our clients and tenants with access to a network of high-value services, funding opportunities, and assistance providers that work specifically with technology-based entrepreneurs and companies.
- Venture Development: combining the principles of (private) venture capital and (non-profit) economic development to help entrepreneurs start and grow companies.
- Making Investments: Tech entrepreneurs can be funded with the capital they need to grow their startup businesses quickly.
- Delivering Services: Technical assistance is provided to help high-potential businesses solve problems, drive growth and create jobs.
- Acting as a Value-Added Partner: The Northwest Ohio team works on behalf of private, public, and philanthropic funders who want to assist entrepreneurs by making grants and convening networks to turn their vision and resources into action and impact.
The ESP program supports University of Toledo staff as they work to help entrepreneurs develop ideas and grow businesses. Our University team provides many resources such as:
- Market Research: We help clients research their potential market, develop a compelling value proposition, and create/validate their business model.
- Sales & Marketing: Our team can help you connect with your customers to close more sales and generate more revenue.
- Investor Readiness: We work to determine the best funding options for your business and help you make a favorable impression with investors.
- Growth Planning: We help your leadership team make the plans, acquire the resources, and set the key milestones you need to grow.
Our staff is here to assist you and we encourage you to take advantage of the business and technology commercialization services and support we provide. To begin working with us, please submit this form.