Programs
From a first idea to a funded studio — find the program that fits where you are. Every program below is run from the Hub in downtown Portsmouth.
Flagships
The headliners
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ShawneeXP Game Accelerator
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
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Esports at Shawnee State
Varsity esports, the Tri-State Esports League for area schools, and campus tournaments — the competitive gaming front door for students and recruits.
Start or grow a business
Business support
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Entrepreneurial Coaching
One-on-one coaching for founders and small businesses, from idea validation to growth planning.
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Entrepreneurial Toolkit
A self-serve library of startup guides, templates, and local resources for Southern Ohio founders.
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Verizon Small Business Digital Ready
Free digital-skills training and resources for small businesses, in partnership with Verizon.
Cohorts & competitions
Pitch, build, win
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Ignite Portsmouth
The Hub’s flagship pitch competition and business-building program for local entrepreneurs. Next up: September 15, 2026.
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Glockner Dare to Dream
The high school pitch competition that puts real startup funding behind Southern Ohio's youngest founders.
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Startup Weekend Portsmouth
54 hours from idea to pitch, with mentors on hand all weekend and a winner crowned Sunday night.
Regional initiatives
Bigger than one building
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BESTOhio
A regional partnership strengthening Southern Ohio’s entrepreneurial ecosystem — partners, calendar, and shared programming.
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NSF EPIIC
A National Science Foundation initiative building innovation and partnership capacity at Shawnee State.