Smart entrepreneurs know that sharpening their business skills is part and parcel to long term success. Taking advantage of free resources such as JumpStart’s Small Business Impact Program can help local business owners identify knowledge gaps and receive expert advice in unfamiliar areas.
For 12 weeks, entrepreneurs are immersed in the hands-on accelerator that combines expert advising, mentorship and peer collaboration to help small businesses grow.
The three-month program wraps with a high-stakes pitch competition offering $35,000 in grant capital for first and second place, as well as participation awards for all other graduates. New for 2025, the grand prize winner receives $20,000 to grow their business.
Meet the latest Cleveland cohort of six ambitious entrepreneurs working to turn their visions into staples in the Northeast Ohio business community.
Zesty Compass
Zahra Finley, MBA
Zahra Finley is the founder of Zesty Compass Collection and a dynamic entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in corporate compliance, operations, and client relations. Her background in regulatory strategy and operational leadership provides a strong foundation for business growth, strategic partnerships, and scalable systems. Zahra brings this expertise to Zesty Compass, where she leads a purpose-driven brand that merges luxury, intentionality, and community impact in the wine and lifestyle industries.
zestycompass.com
Sand Pebbles
Leonela Mora & Pearl Soyson
Entrepreneur and change consultant Leonela Mora, serves as the COO and co-owner of Sand Pebbles, a bold, health-focused Thai takeout brand known for its vibrant, gluten-free, and MSG-free dishes that celebrate culture and connection. Sand Pebbles is not just about food; it’s about creating an environment where every flavor has purpose, and every customer feels valued. Leonela’s mission is to lead with heart, drive positive change, and build businesses that nourish both people and communities.
Pearl Soyson is the proud co-owner of Sand Pebbles Restaurant, a beloved local dining spot known for its fresh seafood, signature cocktails, and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Sand Pebbles has become a community favorite not only for its flavorful cuisine but also for its lively events, including live music nights and seasonal celebrations. Pearl’s goal is to create a space where people feel at home—where every meal is memorable, and every guest is treated like family.
sand-pebbles.com
Uncle Crunch
Lena Wilson
Lena Wilson is the founder of Uncle Crunch, a woman-owned freeze-dried treat business based in Medina. Wilson launched her business in October 2023 and has since expanded the Uncle Crunch production space, partnered with regional retailers, and has had multiple appearances on QVC. Uncle Crunch was born out of Wilson’s love of creativity and a desire to build something joyful and impactful for her family.
unclecrunch.com
2Fly Mobile Games
Lakeisha Eldemire
2Fly Mobile Games is a family-owned entertainment company that brings high-energy, interactive fun to events through mobile game trucks, GellyBall, bounce houses, and custom basketball hoop setups. The company specializes in creating unforgettable experiences for birthdays, school events, corporate gatherings, community festivals, and more—turning any occasion into an exciting and memorable celebration.
2flymobilegames.com
sweet bean
Kristin Barnes
Kristin Barnes is the owner and chief chocolate artist at sweet bean, a company that produces gourmet artisan hand-painted chocolate bonbons and other sweet treats. Kristin has been hand-crafting edible art since 2013 when sweet bean was launched from her home kitchen as a side hustle. An artist first and a chocolatier second, she opened a brick and mortar retail studio in Cleveland’s Collinwood neighborhood in 2021. Kristin is a winner of Cleveland’s Chain Reaction (season 3), and a graduate of the Goldman Sachs 10, 000 small businesses program (10KSB) (Cohort 30). Some of sweet bean’s premier partners include FLIGHT wine bar, Chuck’s fine wines, and Cleveland Hilton. The company also holds partnerships with boutiques and gift shops across the U.S.
sweetbeancandies.com
