Cleveland
Believeland, The 216, The Rock and Roll Capital of the World. There’s no shortage of ways to refer to Cleveland!
A Principal Center of Biomedical Innovation and Development
In the last few years, locals and businesses in this Midwest metropolis have been repurposing historic buildings from its heyday in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and turning them into restaurants, stores, and draws for both residents and tourists.
When it comes to life in Cleveland, Fellows enjoy the incredible arts scene of world class orchestras, theaters, and art museums. In addition, there is a massive and united sports following across the city. Biking throughout the beautiful Metroparks and green spaces is another favorite pastime.
Several Fellows find themselves working in healthcare spaces due to the influence of Cleveland Clinic and University Hospitals. Other startups revolve around big data solutions and business-to-business services.
Cleveland’s claim to fame within the VFA network? The city will host the 2019 Venture For America Accelerator, a 4-month residential program to accelerate the growth of Fellows’ ventures.
VFA Cleveland By The Numbers

67 Fellows
Since VFA's arrival in 2013

33 Company Partners
Have hired Fellows

3 Fellow-Founded Companies
Based in Cleveland

How One Fellow views Cleveland's Startup Ecosystem
Jake Peacock '18 Fellow
“I see a lot of young creatives and entrepreneurs involved in content (music/video/events) creation who are trying to collaborate!”

A Fellow's Favorite Element of Cleveland
Julia Wang '17 Fellow

Fellow Turned Founder Spotlight:
Casie Grammer and Liv Stromme '17
Casie Grammer and Liv Stromme, 2017 Fellows, met at Selection Day before they both became Fellows. They got along so well that they joked they’d be best friends and start a company together. Now, they are co-founders in Cleveland at Jubilee Plant Box.
Jubilee Plant Box is a self-care subscription box containing succulents, affirmations, and other methods that allow subscribers to rest and refresh.

What It's Like to Work as a Fellow in Ohio
Read the full article here"Cleveland will benefit from having exceptional young Founders getting started here and Fellow Founders will help Cleveland develop deeper ties with an amazing organization."
– Ed Buchholz, Start In CLE