Stories spark connections. They allow us to see ourselves in history and help us to relate to those around us. They remind us of our commonalities and serve as critical junctures for ideas, opportunities, and a sense of community.

Storytelling is a universal concept that lies at the foundation of this work. There are stories of growth, innovation, collaboration and progress all around us. They need to be told as a way to connect people and inspire them to keep moving forward. Share your story with us and help us to continue to Elevate Greater Akron.

Growth Story

Submit a growth story of an entrepreneur or business to be featured in the storytelling initiative #ChooseGrowth.

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The CoLounge

By ElevateGreaterAkron / March 30, 2021

“We were supposed to launch and open up right when everything shut down. I had to pivot. With pivoting, I really started to learn and dig into how is the coworking and flexible office space going to change post-pandemic.” Want to learn more about this growth story? Contact Kristen Birkbeck, thecolounge.com

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Bluestone Bakery

By ElevateGreaterAkron / March 30, 2021

“The community support has been amazing. All of the orders and excitement has really put this company where it is right now.” Want to learn more about this growth story? Contact Ashley D’Andrea, bluestone.bakery.ohio@gmail.com

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Blaak Media

By ElevateGreaterAkron / March 30, 2021

“Akron is a part of me. It’s a part of my company. If you see my logo at the end of a video, Akron, Ohio pops up right underneath it because I’m very proud of that. “ Want to learn more about this growth story? Ashton Blake, blaakmedia.com

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#ChooseGrowth330

By ElevateGreaterAkron / March 18, 2021

There are stories of growth, innovation, collaboration and determination all around us. Each one of us has a story to share and in doing so, we remind others that they are not alone. Choose to share your story and inspire those around you. Choose to persevere. Choose to innovate. Choose to grow. #ChooseGrowth330​

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Eat Speak Love

By ElevateGreaterAkron / February 26, 2021

“Eat Speak Love is about sharing the wealth and sharing the awareness that these brands exist, that these entrepreneurs exist. These women, especially and black business owners, are incredible people with stories and a journey, and we want to highlight them at every turn.” Want to learn more about this growth story? Contact Tiffany Roper,…

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sip.savor.soul

By ElevateGreaterAkron / February 26, 2021

“We are actually changing the lives of kids and adults every day just by teaching them how to make healthy food choices. We really want to engage the community, and we are building relationships at the same time. It wasn’t about catering; it was about giving back. ” Want to learn more about this growth…

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White Glove Cleaning Solutions

By ElevateGreaterAkron / February 23, 2021

“White Glove Cleaning Solutions is important as a young black entrepreneur because it allows you to show that you can put back into the community by working for yourself. What I would say to young black entrepreneurs that are starting or want to start their own business is to be diligent and passionate. Don’t give…

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Military Hire

By ElevateGreaterAkron / January 28, 2021

“We’ve increased the number of job on our site by 14 times the original jobs posted on the site. We’ve added at least a half a dozen partners that are helpful in providing services to veterans.” Want to learn more about this growth story? Contact Jeff Finefrock, jfinefrock@saasfactory.capital​

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Whiskertin Lighting: Q&A with Glenn Miller

By ElevateGreaterAkron / November 20, 2020

What is the background story of your business? When/how was it created? In 2015, we made our first light and posted a picture on social media and got a great response from it. From there, we decided to start creating different types of lights. The business expanded from there and is still continuing to evolve. How do…

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GloLyte Lamps.: Q&A with Dominic Falcione

By ElevateGreaterAkron / November 19, 2020

What is the background story of your business? When/how was it created? Prior to starting this business, I was operating a business called Krunchworks (Design+Build). I have a studio in Bounce Hub Innovation that I’ve been operating out of for about 3 years. Many projects included lighting such as the Angel Falls Coffee Co. sign, the…

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