Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Hamilton County / August 13, 2025

🎮 Minecraft to money

Hamilton County • August 13, 2025

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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.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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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.

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🚀 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.

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💰 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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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Profitable Section 8 income property: Priced at $145,000, this 3-bedroom home offers proven rental income potential ($1,600/month through Section 8) with a spacious yard, detached garage, and convenient location near shopping and public transportation.
Real estate listing image Modern woodland retreat near amenities: Priced at $425,000, this home features hardwood floors, updated granite kitchen, stainless steel appliances, and a family room with built-ins opening to a deck, all on a private wooded lot near city amenities.
Real estate listing image Budget ranch dual closets tub: Priced at $199,900, this 3-bedroom ranch features a formal living room, primary bedroom with dual closets, whirlpool tub, and converted garage-turned-family room, plus a detached garage and fenced yard.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🍂 Aug. 13 - Fall Festival Preview Party: Sip for a cause at HighGrain Taproom & Kitchen on August 13! Enjoy delicious beer and food while supporting the Fall Festival—10% of all sales, including carry-out, goes directly to the event.
🍽️ Aug. 14 - Lunch: Gather for a community lunch at Norwood Community Center on August 14! Join neighbors for good food and conversation at 1810 Courtland Ave #1 in Cincinnati, where local connections are always on the menu.
🗣️ Aug. 14 - English Conversation Practice: Boost your English skills at the friendly ESOL Conversation Group! Practice speaking in a casual, welcoming environment at Blue Ash Branch Library on August 14 at 6 PM. All proficiency levels welcome.
🎡 Aug. 15 - St. Mary FunFest: Make a splash at Ducky Downs during St. Mary's FunFest 2024! Join the Hyde Park community on Aug 15 for games, rides, adult beverages, live bands, and exciting raffles at 2853 Erie Ave.
🏆 Aug. 15 - Black Heritage Breakfast Tour: Celebrate Black heritage at the 37th Midwest BFR Heritage Breakfast on August 15! Join the "Everlasting Endurance" opening ceremony at Fountain Square, followed by a fascinating Historic Tour of Black Cincinnati.
🐶 Aug. 16 - Read to Poppy: Meet Poppy, a cuddly Cavalier King Charles Spaniel who loves story time! Drop by the Cincinnati Library on August 16 to read aloud to this certified therapy dog—bring your favorite book or borrow one there.
🛍️ Aug. 16 - The City Flea Market: Browse unique treasures and local crafts at The City Flea in Washington Park! Stop by 1230 Elm St on August 16 for this beloved Cincinnati marketplace that showcases the city's creative talent.
🎭 Aug. 16 - Crosstown Comedy Festival: Laugh until your sides hurt at the Crosstown Comedy Festival 2025 featuring Luke Capasso! Join the celebration of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky's funniest at Bombs Away! Comedy on August 16.
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