Greater Cincinnati Cleantech Hub
Cincinnati had many promising efforts in climate and innovation, but they were often disconnected. Without a shared strategy or central coordination, the region struggled to align its strengths and attract larger investments, including federal funding.
The Cleantech Hub set out to change that. Baraza Impact Design Studio partnered with BRITE Energy Innovators as well as local leaders to bring together the public, private, and nonprofit sectors around a common vision. Together, we co-designed a hub model that could serve as the region’s anchor for cleantech innovation and collaboration.
Turning Momentum Into a Movement
THE IMPACT
Baraza’s work helped launch a cross-sector effort focused on growing Cincinnati’s clean technology ecosystem:
Convened regional institutions to define a shared mission and align goals
Mapped key challenges and surfaced opportunities for collective action.
Created a strategy framework to support funding efforts and long-term planning.
Delivered a roadmap to guide the Hub’s development, including steps to strengthen partnerships and grow capacity.
HOW WE DID IT
From Insights to Action: Building a Collaborative Ecosystem
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Learning the Landscape
We started by having one-on-one conversations with each steering team member, including leaders from corporations, nonprofits, universities, and local government.
In addition, we hosted cross-sector roundtables and two sessions focused on startups to hear directly from people working on the ground. These conversations helped us understand what’s working, where the gaps are, and where stronger collaboration is needed.
All together, these conversations provided a full view of the regional landscape, revealing areas of overlap, missed opportunities for collaboration, and a strong need for better alignment across efforts.
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Identifying Insights
We reviewed everything we heard and started to notice some clear patterns. People consistently pointed to the need for better support for startups, stronger connections between climate work and workforce development, and a more coordinated strategy for going after funding. These takeaways helped focus the next steps in designing the Hub.
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Framing the Opportunities
Baraza hosted a workshop with the steering team to take a closer look at what’s holding the region back and where there’s room to make real progress. The group discussed challenges like limited access to funding for startups, gaps in the workforce, and the need for stronger connections between companies and local suppliers.
We also explored ideas for joint projects, new partnerships, and policies that could support long-term growth. The session helped bring different perspectives to the table and opened the door to more coordinated action.
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Translating to Strategy & Taking Action
After the workshop, Baraza worked with the BRITE team to map out next steps. We used an OGSM to organize the Hub’s goals and figure out who would take the lead on different parts of the work. BRITE will take on some efforts directly, and we set up working groups to carry others forward.
We also put together a simple roadmap to keep everyone aligned. It lays out what needs to happen now, what to build toward over time, and how partners can stay connected around funding, policy, and shared priorities. The Hub now has a clear starting point and a path to keep things moving.
Partnering for Success
Baraza was brought on by the BRITE Energy Innovators to support this project. Key partnerships with local organizations, including Alloy Development, CVG Airport, Donovan Energy, Edge Energy, Miami University, Michelman, and Procter & Gamble played a vital role in shaping the Collaborative’s vision and roadmap. Other organizations across the region also contributed by sharing what they’re seeing on the ground and where they see the most potential for progress.