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. […]
Tag: Blue North
Blue North, New Riff launch bourbon to support NKY entrepreneurs
Blue North, a Northern Kentucky entrepreneurial resource and advocacy organization, is launching its own limited edition bourbon with one of the region’s most iconic distilleries. The Entrepreneurial Spark was created by Newport-based New Riff Distilling. The proceeds from bottle sales will raise money for the Northern Kentucky Entrepreneurship Fund. The NKY Entrepreneur Fund supports Northern […]
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 […]
Three NKY-based startups commit to SparkHaus
Three Northern Kentucky-based startups announced they are relocating their operations to SparkHaus. SparkHaus promises to be a central hub for Northern Kentucky-based startups, investment firms and entrepreneurial support organizations. Located at 727 Madison Avenue in Covington’s Central Business District, SparkHaus will establish a space for investors, from seed-stage venture capitalists to Northern Kentucky’s largest firms, […]
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 […]
An entrepreneurial mindset: ‘We have a bright, vibrant community of folks’
This story is part of our latest super issue about civic engagement and why it’s important to be part of your community. Click here for our full guide to getting involved. MK Hennigan wasn’t sure how to begin her entrepreneurial journey; she just knew she wanted to pursue her vision of starting her own southern-inspired […]
R.C. Durr Foundation backs SparkHaus with $250k investment
The R.C. Durr Foundation has invested $250,000 in SparkHaus, a project to convert the Simms Furniture building in Covington into a next-generation entrepreneurial hub, joining other Northern Kentucky-based institutional investors.
Spanish on the Fly, other NKY businesses receive awards
Spanish on the Fly, a conversational Spanish education and tutoring service, was one of eight businesses to receive a grant from the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Duke Energy, and Blue North to invest in software upgrades, signage, and other practical items to grow the business.
Dave Knox named Mentor of the Year
Dave Knox, Executive Director of Blue North, has been named as the Kentucky Entrepreneurial Hall of Fame’s Mentor of the Year for his efforts to provide mentorship and resources to entrepreneurs in Northern Kentucky.

