Upcoming events.
IGNITE Columbus April 6th, 2025
Ignite is an idea-sharing competition held in over 100 cities worldwide. These events are a venue for innovative thinkers to share their personal and professional passions, using 20 slides that auto-advance every 15 seconds for a total of just five minutes.
Participants will be competing in two judged categories, “Most Enlightening” and “Most Innovative.” One presenter will receive People's Choice Award, which is given to the audience’s favorite.
Enjoy a lively evening of free food, cash bar brews and wine, and enlightenment as we watch our community's innovators and entrepreneurs compete for cash prizes in a fast-paced format to see who has the next great idea!
To apply as a presenter or learn more about the competition click here (Deadline is April 6th)
To register as an attendee for free click here
Catalyst Columbus Ecosystem Awards 2025
Join us as we celebrate the remarkable contributions of entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders in Bartholomew County! The Catalyst Columbus Ecosystem Awards honors individuals and organizations that are driving innovation, supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem, and making a positive social impact. This is a free event that is open to all community members to celebrate the hard work and success of our amazing entrepreneurial ecosystem and community.
Whether you’re nominating an established entrepreneur, a rising star, an innovative leader, an ecosystem advocate, or a change maker with significant social impact, your input is vital to recognizing excellence in our community.
Key Dates:
Nominations Due: April 20th at midnight
Finalists Announced: April 24th at IGNITE Columbus
Awards Show: Tuesday, May 13th at 5:30 PM at the Commons
Nominations Due April 20th: Click Here to Nominate
Local Focus: Nominees or their organizations must be based in Bartholomew County, Indiana.
Flexible Submission: You may nominate yourself or others—and you’re welcome to submit multiple nominations if you feel more than one candidate deserves recognition.
Selective Categories: Nominate only the categories you feel are most relevant—there’s no obligation to nominate for every award.
Detailed Input: Use the explanation and example fields to help the nomination committee understand why you support your nominee.
For any questions, please contact: Dan@Columbusareachamber.com
We appreciate your participation in highlighting the impactful work in our entrepreneurial ecosystem!
CATALYST CAFE: Local Entrepreneur Success Stories| Tom Harmon
Join us for our first Catalyst Cafe of 2025 as we hear from Tom Harmon, local business owner and leader.
Register Here: https://business.columbusareachamber.com/events/details/catalyst-cafe-featuring-tom-harmon-5816
Tom Harmon, retired leader of Taylor Brothers Construction Company, Harmon Construction, and Harmon Steel, is a distinguished business owner and community advocate. In Jennings County, Tom excelled as a student-athlete before earning a Bachelor of Science from Indiana University Bloomington, an MBA from the University of Louisville, and graduating from the Amos Tuck School of Business Minority Business Executive Program.
After nine years at Cummins Engine Company, Tom joined his father and brother in the family-owned construction business, which eventually contributed to landmark projects nationwide, including Indianapolis International Airport, Lucas Oil Stadium, Columbus Learning Center, NexusPark, IU Health, and the Louisville bridges.
Tom's commitment to community service is unparalleled. In the 1990s, he and his brother launched a fundraiser that evolved into the nonprofit Joy of Giving which has given hundreds of thousands of dollars to local charities. He also co-founded the African American Foundation of Bartholomew County, fostering education, leadership, and cultural awareness. And, he is one of the original founders of the TIME Program, designed to support minority entrepreneurs.
His extensive board service includes roles with the TIME Program for minority entrepreneurs, Heritage Fund, Columbus Regional Hospital Foundation, Columbus Sports Council, Indiana University – Columbus Advisory Board, Indiana General Contractors Indiana, and the Indiana Construction Association. Honored with the 2014 William R. Laws Human Rights Award, Tom has championed racial equity and philanthropy.
ReThink: The Future of Housing & Cities
Catalyst Columbus Presents: ReThink The Future of Housing & Cities
Don't miss "Catalyst Columbus Presents: ReThink The Future of Housing and Cities" on January 30th, 2025, at Helen Haddad Hall in Columbus, Indiana from 4:00PM to 6:30PM. This ReThink event will feature a thought-provoking panel discussion, innovative startups working on 3D printed homes, and technology demos showcasing the future of housing, cities, and placemaking. Cap off the evening with refreshments and networking, and connect with others passionate about imagining the future of our home in Columbus Indiana.
Register for Free: Click Here
#Catalyst #Columbus #innovation #creatives #makers #innovators #startups #entrepreneurs #ecosystems #housing #cities #future #3dprinting #construction #placemaking #people #process #practice #zoning #futurecities #futureroads #analytics #ai #robots #universalbasicincome #manufacturing #engineering
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available.
CATALYST CAFE: Demystifying Analytics for Small Businesses
Demystifying Analytics for Small Businesses" is a course designed to empower small business owners and managers with the knowledge and tools to harness data effectively.
This course simplifies analytics concepts, debunking myths that analytics is too complex or costly for small enterprises. Participants will explore the types of analytics—descriptive, predictive, and prescriptive—and learn to apply them to real-world scenarios. We’ll dive into top analytics use cases, from customer segmentation and sales forecasting to website optimization and inventory management, illustrating how data-driven decisions can enhance business outcomes.
Additionally, participants will receive hands-on guidance in selecting affordable, user-friendly analytics tools, along with practical steps to kickstart their data journey immediately. By the end of this course, small business leaders will be equipped to make smarter decisions with confidence, maximizing growth and efficiency in their organizations.
Limited Spots Available!
Register Here: https://business.columbusareachamber.com/events/details/demystifying-analytics-for-small-businesses-5684
===============================================================================
Cerwin is a seasoned Revenue Operations and Analytics Executive with over eight years of experience, dedicated to leveraging data-driven decision-making to help businesses scale and achieve their strategic goals. As a GTM Strategist and Analytics Leader, Cerwin has advised more than 30 startups and served as a judge in multiple pitch competitions. His deep expertise in data analytics, systems, and process improvements allows him to provide actionable insights to a wide range of industries, including B2B technology, SaaS, automotive, retail, e-commerce, and logistics. Cerwin’s "Bottom-Up" strategy, coupled with his fresh perspectives and analytical mindset, has consistently led to high-impact results and improved business processes.
IGNITE Columbus October 9th 2024
Ignite is an idea-sharing competition held in over 100 cities worldwide. These events are a venue for innovative thinkers to share their personal and professional passions, using 20 slides that auto-advance every 15 seconds for a total of just five minutes.
Participants will be competing in two judged categories, “Most Enlightening” and “Most Innovative.” One presenter will receive People's Choice Award, which is given to the audience’s favorite.
Enjoy a lively evening of free food, cash bar brews and wine, and enlightenment as we watch our community's innovators and entrepreneurs compete for cash prizes in a fast-paced format to see who has the next great idea!
To apply as a presenter or learn more about the competition click here (Deadline is September 27th)
To register as an attendee for free click here
CATALYST CAFE: MEETUP FOR MAKERS, CREATIVES, & INNOVATORS
Are you a creative, maker, or innovator seeking connection and community? Catalyst Cafe offers the ideal setting to connect, share your passions, and spark fresh ideas. Whether you?re looking to network, gain knowledge, or find inspiration, join us on September 12th for an evening of connection and community.
Catalyst Pitch Competition (Apply by June 1st)
General Details:
Applications are due by June 1st (Applicants will be notified by no later than June 4th if they've been selected to pitch or not.)
Your business can not be making more than $200,000 of annual revenue as of May 2024
You or your business must be based in Bartholomew, Jackson, or Jennings County
If selected to pitch you will need to be able to attend the pitch competition in-person at the Columbus Learning Center on June 15th from 10:00am until 2:00pm.
$15,000 or more in cash prizes will be given out to the winners. *Note: Winners will be announced the week after the competition*
This is a free event for anyone to attend even if they are not pitching.
Pitch Event Details:
The event will be hosted in the Lecture Hall at The Columbus Learning Center on June 15th from 10:00am - 2:00pm.
Each company will be given 5 minutes to pitch. (There will be a suggested format for slides and content that we will send out to those selected). Each pitch will be followed by 3 minutes of Q+A with the judges.
The final order of pitches will be emailed out before the event so you know what time you are expected to pitch that day.
Food and beverages will not be provided so be sure to bring a snack and drink if you plan to stay and watch other founders pitch.
Winners will be announced the week after the pitch competition.
If you have any questions or need any support with completing your application contact Dan Nash via email - dan@columbusareachamber.com
We look forward to your application and participation in our first-ever Catalyst Pitch Competition!
IGNITE Columbus April 25th 2024
Ignite is an idea-sharing competition held in over 100 cities worldwide. These events are a venue for innovative thinkers to share their personal and professional passions, using 20 slides that auto-advance every 15 seconds for a total of just five minutes.
Participants will be competing in two judged categories, “Most Enlightening” and “Most Innovative.” One presenter will receive People's Choice Award, which is given to the audience’s favorite.
Enjoy a lively evening of free food, cash bar brews and wine, and enlightenment as we watch our community's innovators and entrepreneurs compete for cash prizes in a fast-paced format to see who has the next great idea!
To apply as a presenter or learn more about the competition click here (Deadline is April 12th)
To register as an attendee for free click here
ReThink: A.I.
Catalyst Columbus Presents: ReThink A.I.
Join us this March 27th from 4pm to 7pm at Helen Haddad Hall to connect with like-minded individuals, experts, and enthusiast passionate about A.I. and its potential to change the world. Register for free here!
This free event will feature a panel discussion, founder stories, networking, and a never before seen A.I. demo.
Schedule:
4:00pm - 4:30pm: Doors Open & Networking
4:30pm - 5:15pm: Panel Discussion
5:15pm - 5:45pm: Founder Showcase
5:45pm - 6:15pm: A.I. Product Demo
6:15pm - 6:30pm: A.I. in Education
6:30pm - 7:00pm: Networking & Drinks
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available.
Lean Startup Academy
Are you looking to upgrade your business skill-set with lean startup tools to help with a new or existing company, and get paid while you do it? Are you a current or aspiring entrepreneur living or operating in Jackson, Jennings, or Bartholomew County Indiana? This 12 week Lean Startup Academy is for you!
This program will include six 75-minute online zoom classes and a 1-Day in-person workshop at the end of April 2024 in Bartholomew County. Upon completion of the program and submission of your program portfolio you will receive a $500 stipend to continue to support you on your entrepreneurial journey. Click here to apply!
Questions? Email: Dan@Columbusareachamber.com
You will learn:
- How to design business models.
- How to test whether an idea or business model is worth pursuing.
- How to communicate your business clearly and concisely to internal and external stakeholders.
- How to identify and prioritize the riskiest assumptions in your business model.
- How to stress test your riskiest assumptions using small and fast experiments.
- How to use customer interviews to validate your business model.
- How to operate and make decisions under conditions of extreme uncertainty.
Important dates:
Application Deadline: January 31st 2024
Applicants notified: February 5th 2024
Start: The program will kick off with the first 75-minute zoom class during the week of February 12th
Catalyst Cafe: Lulu Loquidis PLA, ASLA & co-founder of LAA
Join us Friday November 10th at 8:30am at the Visitor's Center for a conversation with Lulu Loquidis, Q + A, coffee, and networking with other creators, makers, and innovators. These free events will feature local creatives, makers, and innovators sharing their incredible stories, lessons learned, and their bold visions for our Columbus ecosystem. Join us, and be part of this thriving community that transforms caffeinated conversations into catalysts for change, one story at a time. Register for free.
Lulu Loquidis is a registered Landscape Architect, co-founder of LAA Office, and adjunct professor at Indiana University's J. Irwin Miller Architecture Program. As a designer and project leader for international practices, including Hargreaves Associates and AECOM, she has built a diverse portfolio including gardens, streetscapes, urban plazas, waterfront parks, and resiliency infrastructure. She believes that contemporary landscape architecture establishes a crucial hinge between the environment, art, and human culture. Her current work focuses on transforming underutilized spaces through art and design to foster social life and enliven communities.
ReThink: AgTech
Catalyst Columbus Presents: ReThink AgTech
Join leaders from across the state to discuss the current landscape and future opportunities where tech, manufacturing, and agriculture collide. Register for free here
Agenda:
3:00pm - 3:45pm Doors open and registration
3:45pm - 4:30pm Fireside chat with Mitch Frazier from Agrinovus, Ann Schemlzer from Cummins, Kerri Garvin from Greater Indiana Clean Cities, and Craig Barnes from ClearFlame Engine Tech
4:30pm - 5:00pm Company Showcase featuring Steve Booher from SmartApply
5:00pm - 5:30pm AgTech Startup Demo
5:30pm - 6:00pm Networking
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available.
Catalyst Cafe: Tricia Ringer, co-founder Ring-co
Join us next Friday October 27th at 8:30am at the Visitor's Center for a conversation with Tricia Ringer, Q + A, coffee, and networking with other creators, makers, and innovators. These free events will feature local creatives, makers, and innovators sharing their incredible stories, lessons learned, and their bold visions for our Columbus ecosystem. Join us, and be part of this thriving community that transforms caffeinated conversations into catalysts for change, one story at a time. Register for free.
With over 19 years of entrepreneurial experience and a successful transition from academia, I've established a thriving interpretation business, penetrating sectors such as medical, university, professional development, and legal.Almost 10 years ago, I partnered with my husband and played a pivotal role in the legal formation and financial foundation of Ring-Co, our product development company. My proficiency in market research, analysis, and versatile writing allows me to address diverse customer needs, from technical training to crafting compelling customer stories.
IGNITE Columbus
Ignite is an idea-sharing competition held in over 100 cities worldwide. These events are a venue for innovative thinkers to share their personal and professional passions, using 20 slides that auto-advance every 15 seconds for a total of just five minutes.
Participants will be competing in two judged categories, “Most Enlightening” and “Most Innovative.” One presenter will receive People's Choice Award, which is given to the audience’s favorite.
Enjoy a lively evening of free food, cash bar brews and wine, and enlightenment as we watch our community's innovators and entrepreneurs compete for cash prizes in a fast-paced format to see who has the next great idea!
To apply as a presenter or learn more about the competition click here (Deadline is October 9th)
To register as an attendee for free click here
Catalyst Cafe: Sam Markel with Guardian Bikes
Join us next Friday October 13th at 8:30am at the Visitor's Center for a conversation with Sam Markel, Q + A, coffee, and networking with other creators, makers, and innovators. These free events will feature local creatives, makers, and innovators sharing their incredible stories, lessons learned, and their bold visions for our Columbus ecosystem. Join us, and be part of this thriving community that transforms caffeinated conversations into catalysts for change, one story at a time. Register for free.
Sam Markel is the VP of Manufacturing and Operations at Guardian Bikes, a Mark Cuban company. With over 15 years of experience in manufacturing, he excels in continuous process improvement, production optimization, and quality management. Sam is dedicated to developing high-performing teams, managing supply chain and logistics, and supporting funding rounds for startup growth. He also holds patents and awards for innovative solutions in portable energy and climate control units. His mission is to bring quality bicycle manufacturing back to the USA and provide exceptional value to customers and stakeholders.
Catalyst Cafe: Bill Collins - Harnessing A.I. for Personal & Career Growth
Join us next Friday September 29th at 8:30am at the Visitor's Center for a conversation with Bill Collins, Q + A, coffee, and networking with other creators, makers, and innovators. These free events will feature local creatives, makers, and innovators sharing their incredible stories, lessons learned, and their bold visions for our Columbus ecosystem. Join us, and be part of this thriving community that transforms caffeinated conversations into catalysts for change, one story at a time. Register for free.
Bill Collins is a distinguished expert in Healthcare Strategy, Technology Assessment, User Experience, and Roadmap Development. With over 17 years of experience, he has contributed to healthcare innovation with 44 US patents issued and has played a pivotal role in introducing cutting-edge solutions into Stanford Health Care. Bill's extensive expertise spans various technologies, including Unified Communications, Location-Based Services, Artificial Intelligence, and Wireless Infrastructure. He is a thought leader known for bridging the gap between healthcare innovation and practical implementation.
Catalyst Cafe Series
You're invited to the Catalyst Cafe' speaker series this fall! These free events will feature local creatives, makers, and innovators sharing their incredible stories, lessons learned, and their bold visions for our Columbus ecosystem. Join us, and be part of this thriving community that transforms caffeinated conversations into catalysts for change, one story at a time. See upcoming Catalyst events and register for free: click here
Catalyst Cafe: w/ Jonathan Nesci: creative/collaborative/connections in columbus
Join us next Friday September 8th at 8:30am at the Visitor's Center for a conversation with Jonathan Nesci, Q + A, coffee, and networking with other creators, makers, and innovators. These free events will feature local creatives, makers, and innovators sharing their incredible stories, lessons learned, and their bold visions for our Columbus ecosystem. Join us, and be part of this thriving community that transforms caffeinated conversations into catalysts for change, one story at a time. Register for free.
Jonathan is a multi-faceted creative who lives in Columbus, Indiana. Nesci Develops fine art, sculpture, furniture, lighting, and exhibitions.
Nesci is a cultural matchmaker often connecting architects, artists, and designers. Jonathan finds creative talents and brings them together in important residential & and community projects, often by playing the role of creative matchmaker. Jonathan's work lives on the outer edge of design and art and within the realm of architecture.
Jonathan Nesci's practice embraces the continuing challenges and lessons of his craft which demands an exactness of design and fabrication.