Hamilton County • August 13, 2025
Good morning, Hamilton County. From digital blocks to real-world careers, UC student Isabelle Hageman is transforming her Minecraft passion into professional gold at CostQuest Associates. The computer science major has impressed the broadband consulting firm so much with her full-stack development skills that they've already offered to extend her co-op position, potentially leading to full-time employment after graduation. Her success story represents the kind of innovation driving our local economy forward.
That same spirit of growth is evident across our region, with 28 Cincinnati companies earning spots on Inc. Magazine's prestigious list of America's fastest-growing firms. Meanwhile, the newly launched O.H.I.O. Fund has raised an impressive $238 million in just its first year, already investing in nearly 20 companies including two right here in Greater Cincinnati. These developments highlight our area's expanding reputation as a thriving hub for entrepreneurship and business innovation.
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💻 UC student turns Minecraft passion into tech career gold. Isabelle Hageman, a computer science major at University of Cincinnati, is thriving in her co-op position at CostQuest Associates, a broadband consulting firm. Working as a software developer, she tackles projects across multiple departments including web design, database management, and e-commerce development. The small company environment allows her to develop full-stack skills while receiving trust to handle significant responsibilities despite being early in her academic journey. CostQuest has already offered to extend her co-op through fall, with potential for full-time employment after graduation.
🚀 Cincinnati boasts 28 companies among America's fastest-growing firms. These local businesses secured spots on the prestigious Inc. 5000 list, which annually ranks the nation's most rapidly expanding private companies. The achievement represents a significant milestone for Greater Cincinnati's business community. Inc. Magazine's compilation is widely regarded as a benchmark for entrepreneurial success across the United States. The recognition highlights the region's vibrant economic growth and business innovation.
💰 Ohio investment fund raises $238 million in its first year. The O.H.I.O. Fund, launched by prominent venture capital names across the state, has already made nearly 20 investments, including two in Greater Cincinnati companies. Mike Venerable serves as founding managing director and partner of the growth-focused fund. The initiative represents a significant boost to Ohio's startup ecosystem, creating new opportunities for local businesses seeking capital. Originally targeting $500 million, the fund has successfully secured nearly half that amount while actively deploying capital throughout the state.
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