Blue North Archives

A community of collaboration and innovation grows at SparkHaus

Described as the “engine for entrepreneurship in Northern Kentucky,” SparkHaus opened its doors last fall. Even before opening, the long-anticipated home for area entrepreneurs and technology innovators had attracted interest. Several founders, as well as businesses that support and serve startups, had already signed up for space in the historic building in downtown Covington. Blue […]

Targeted support for Northern Kentucky tech businesses taking that first step

BRINK is a new program designed specifically to address the challenges faced by very early stage technology startups. The program provides mentorship and support to promising startups at the critical early stage of development. The program targets tech businesses showing potential for high growth and the ability to scale up rapidly and impact their industries. […]

SparkHaus: Grow in a vibrant and supportive community

Once they know they have a great idea, entrepreneurs focus on questions that begin with “how” — how to develop their plan, how to find and attract customers, how to locate the resources and support they need. Soon, “where” questions also arise — where to set up the business, where to go for help and […]

Standing on the shoulders of giants

If you’ve attended college or visited someone in a hospital or even walked the halls of a public building, you’ll see the names. You may find the name emblazoned over the entrance to a building or hallway, or simply on a plaque in the lobby. In fact, you may pass the names daily, maybe pause […]

Northern Kentucky Entrepreneurship Fund can take early stage businesses to the next level

Finding support, especially funding opportunities, is an uphill climb for entrepreneurs first starting out, as well as for those who have passed that first hurdle and are ready to grow. Wherever you are on those early rungs of the ladder, taking the next step is a challenge both in terms of effort and in finances. […]

Momentum builds for SparkHaus

Northern Kentucky’s new startup hub, SparkHaus, is on track to open its doors this summer. With renovations underway, the former Sims Furniture Building in Covington is being transformed into a dynamic workspace designed to provide a home and community of support for new area businesses. The 47,000 square feet of space features more than 170 […]

Brand Fusion Brings Startups and Major Brands Together at TQL Stadium for Dynamic Networking and Innovation

Each fall, the top startups from across the country come to Cincinnati to connect with leading brands in their industry at an event called Brand Fusion. During the event, 50 startups met with around 40 major marketers like Procter & Gamble, Kroger, Ford, Fifth Third, and FC Cincinnati. The event draws brand marketers and venture-backed […]

Kentucky’s investment in small business fuels growth

One reason Kentucky is experiencing the strongest economic growth in its history lies in its commitment to supporting and growing small and innovative businesses across the commonwealth. With the state government’s focus on Kentucky business, more resources are available to small businesses and startups than ever before. Within the state, the Cabinet for Economic Development […]

Covington Life Sciences Partners innovates research and development

Covington Life Sciences Partners, led by Christin Godale, is transforming Northern Kentucky into a hub for life sciences innovation by providing startups and entrepreneurs with the critical infrastructure and support they need to thrive.

CVG Innovation is a forerunner in airport technology

While walking through CVG, the average traveler might not realize how much work goes on behind the scenes to bring the best products to the airport. For instance, CVG Innovation partnered with Canada-based startup Avidbots to bring an autonomous floor scrubber to the airport. In 2018, CVG collaborated with local start-up Losant to become the […]