Can Columbus Build the Next Big Thing?

The next billion-dollar company could be getting its start in Central Ohio right now. But will it find the money, talent, and support to become a major success story without leaving Columbus?

A new report will offer a revealing look at our region’s venture capital landscape: who’s investing, which industries are attracting money, how Columbus stacks up against its competitors, and where critical gaps remain.

Central Ohio has emerged as a growing hub for startups and innovation, with entrepreneurs developing new technologies in healthcare, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, and more. But turning a promising idea into a thriving company takes more than ingenuity. It takes investment, connections, and an ecosystem that can help businesses grow.

As billions of investment dollars pour into a select group of companies nationally, is Columbus getting its fair share? What will it take to attract more investors, help local startups become major employers, and keep their success rooted here? And which industries offer Central Ohio the greatest opportunities for the next big breakthrough?

Join us for a candid look at the money, ideas, and entrepreneurs shaping Central Ohio’s economic future—and what it will take to turn today’s startups into tomorrow’s success stories.

Featuring Jennifer Hankins, President and CEO, Rev1 Ventures; Dan Manges, Co-Founder and CEO, RWX; Kim Zavislak, Office Managing Partner, KPMG with moderator and additional panelists to be announced.