mspire is Northeast Ohio's only pitch challenge exclusively for product-focused entrepreneurs and small manufacturers. The applications for mspire 2020 are now closed.
Finalists are given resources and guidance specifically geared to their unique situation. We work hard to ensure that winners are given the help that they need to build their businesses.
The event is open to any entrepreneur or small business with an innovative product idea in the 21 counties of Northeast Ohio, including:
Ashland, Ashtabula, Carroll, Columbiana, Crawford, Cuyahoga, Erie, Geauga, Huron, Lake, Lorain, Mahoning, Medina, Portage, Richland, Stark, Summit, Trumbull, Tuscarawas, and Wayne.
Yes! However, if you’ve been awarded in the past, you have to demonstrate a pivot or significant progress to be eligible to win again.
Each project will be evaluated for fit with MAGNET's existing services, as well as feasibility, economic impact, and potential for job creation.
Any physical product or process improvement in manufacturing is welcome to apply.
We know that turning ideas into reality is challenging. The process can be complex and expensive. MAGNET has expertise on-staff and in our network, and we can subsidize specific project steps and leverage our considerable resources to help you build your product in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
September 1st - Online application opens
September 30th (11:59 PM) - Application period closes and initial evaluation begins
October 12th - Finalists announced
October 21st and 22nd - Online Presentations
October 26th - Winners announced
MAGNET is a non-profit consulting group. We grow the manufacturing industry and unlock prosperity in Northeast Ohio. Our practical consulting helps start-ups thrive and small and medium-sized companies transform with technology, innovation, and talent. We create jobs and drive change by collaborating with manufacturing CEOs, governments, community leaders, and educators to solve problems and build opportunities. MAGNET is part of the NIST and Ohio Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program to support small and medium manufacturers across the US.
