#59: Unveiling the Cincinnati Tech Census: Building a World-Class Tech Community Between the Coasts

Building a mature, flourishing tech ecosystem is far from an easy task. It takes the unwavering dedication of many talented people over many years, and success is never a guarantee. But it can be done, and those working “in the trenches” of tech entrepreneurship can look to other communities that are a few steps ahead on this journey for guidance and inspiration. Cincinnati is one such community. Nestled along the Ohio River and close to the borders of Indiana and Kentucky, Cincinnati harbors a fast-growing tech ecosystem that’s fueled by four nearby universities, large national companies such as P&G and Kroger, and dozens of innovative, venture-backed startups. The product of more than a decade of hard work and local initiatives, Cincinnati serves as a prime example of how to build a world-class tech ecosystem in the Midwest. During Techstars’ Cincinnati Startup Week, the entire Powderkeg team traveled to Cincy to unveil the findings of the just-released 2018 Cincinnati Tech Census Report. While there, we spoke with eight influential members of the Cincinnati tech community, from entrepreneurs and investors to journalists and thought leaders, to break down the factors that have powered the growth of Cincinnati’s tech sector and highlight lessons for other communities across the country. In this episode with some of Cincinnati’s top tech entrepreneurs, investors and thought leaders, you’ll learn: --- Cincinnati’s secrets for attracting and retaining entrepreneurs and tech talent --- Why tech investors are committing more than ever to diversity --- The important role young people play in the growth of tech communities --- How large companies and startups can work together for mutual benefit --- Key steps a city must take to build a thriving entrepreneurial community --- A few of the most innovative Cincinnati-based startups to keep your eye on If you like this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on iTunes. You can also follow us on Soundcloud or Stitcher. We have an incredible lineup of interviews we’ll be releasing every Tuesday here on the Powderkeg Podcast. Check it out at powderkeg.com/itunes.