“Ohio stands out from other states with its unique mix of large financial services institutions, passionate fintech and insurtech entrepreneurs, and highly-skilled workforce, which is a perfect recipe for fintech innovation,” said JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef. “By partnering with FinTech Frontier and its industry partners, we can accelerate fintech innovation and build on the rapid sector growth occurring in Ohio.”
Fifth Third Bank and Western & Southern Financial Group have also both increased their support as FinTech Frontier enters its second year. The additional resources will increase this year’s FinTech Frontier Pitch Competition, set for Oct. 28, to $75,000 in cash prizes.
"The momentum FinTech Frontier has created, as well as partnering with JobsOhio headed into year two, is a huge step in creating amazing opportunities for Fintechs and Insurtechs,” shared Melissa Stevens, Executive Vice President and Chief Digital Officer, Fifth Third Bank. “It is our hope that other companies in the region join FinTech Frontier's charge both financially and in expertise to help us create a thriving technology driven ecosystem in Cincinnati."
In addition to the Pitch Competition, a new FinTech Intern Program was launched this summer, which paid for full-time internships at local fintechs. Nearly 3,000 total hours were provided to Cincinnati fintechs, working in areas such as software development, data analytics, design, marketing and strategy.
“Adding JobsOhio’s support builds a foundation for growth for FinTech Frontier,” said Todd Lee, Vice President Marketing & Digital, Western & Southern Financial Group. “We are creating an ecosystem that supports and attracts entrepreneurs, bringing new talent and innovative ideas to the region. Western & Southern passionately believes in the vibrancy of Cincinnati as a destination for startup development, recognizing the long term benefits this ecosystem will impart on our city.”
“Fintech is taking off in a massive way across the globe,” said Pete Blackshaw, CEO of Cintrifuse. “The funding numbers are staggering, and the innovation we’re seeing paints a future of financial wellness for all consumers. Adding JobsOhio to the support of our founding partners helps position Cincinnati as a destination for fintech entrepreneurs; for supporting those that are already growing here, and welcoming those who are looking for the best place to launch their startup.”
On Aug. 26, the Fintech Frontier Speaker Series returned, with Tim Spence, President of Fifth Third, and Nasir Qadree, Zeal Capital Partners Managing Partner, headlining the first event.
