YBI investors and funding sources.
YBI has caught the attention of the venture capital community, and has secured critical pre-seed funding for portfolio companies to help them get off the ground and explore great technology ideas.
YBI has caught the attention of the venture capital community, and has secured critical pre-seed funding for portfolio companies to help them get off the ground and explore great technology ideas.
Valley Growth Ventures (VGV) began in 2016 as a partnership between the YBI, Mahoning Valley Economic Development Corporation (MVEDC), The Youngstown State University Research Foundation, and Tech Belt Energy & Innovation Center (TBEIC).
Initially from this partnership, VGV has raised $3 million in local funds, $3 million from the Ohio Third Frontier Pre Seed Fund and $250,000 from the U.S. Economic Development Administration
VGV funding is an early stage investment for tech based businesses that align with the vision of either the YBI or TBEIC. VGV is able to invest anywhere in the state of Ohio, but priority is given to businesses in the Mahoning Valley.
We are the only community our size with a pre-seed fund like this, and VGV will allow us to grow our existing portfolio companies faster and attract new startups to the region.
If you are interested in learning more about Valley Growth Ventures, contact Ernie Knight, Fund Manager at [email protected].
YBI maintains an informal network or angel investors from all around the world. In addition to their treasure, they also invest time and talent in assisting our startups.
If you are an accredited investor looking for opportunities, please contact Jim Cossler.