Great ideas need support—especially in the early stages.

This in-person event is the grand finale of SEA Change’s accelerator program, where a group of Social Entrepreneurs from Northeast Ohio have been working tirelessly to bring their businesses to life. Each of their Social Enterprises exist to do good in the world. Now, it’s time to take the stage and share their vision with you!

What to expect:

Learn how YOU can help make social impact
Live pitches from inspiring Social Entrepreneurs
Network with local entrepreneurs from this year's cohort
Find out who wins the Crowd Favorite award, in-kind awards, and cash awards!

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Help crown the Crowd Favorite 👑

Contribute directly to a Social Entrepreneur through our Crowd Favorite voting. This is funded entirely by donations from Showcase attendees and supporters like you! The Social Entrepreneur in the cohort who receives the most votes will receive 100% of the donated funds from this event and be named the 2026 NEO Crowd Favorite Social Enterprise. This decision is determined by you—all donations are tax-deductible.

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Event agenda ⏰

5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Vendor Village + Crowd Favorite Voting 🎟️

Explore the innovative businesses from this year’s cohort as each Social Enterprise hosts a dedicated table. Enjoy refreshments from local businesses while you mingle. Be sure to cast your Crowd Favorite vote before 6pm!

6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Live Pitches 🎤

Watch as our Spotlight Presenters take the stage to share their bold, change-making ideas. Feel the energy in the room as fellow Social Entrepreneurs cheer them on, and get inspired by the future of Social Enterprise!

7:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Networking + Judge Deliberation 💬

While our Pitch Panelists deliberate, take this time to connect with fellow attendees, revisit your favorite Social Enterprises, or simply enjoy a short break. Who knows? Your next collaboration could be just a conversation away!

8:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Awards Ceremony 🏆

All of us will eagerly await to see who has secured the coveted Crowd Favorite Award and any In-Kind (and maybe Cash!) Awards.

2026 SEA Change Showcase - Northeast Ohio

Cheer on the future of Social Enterprise in Northeast Ohio! Watch live pitches, connect with entrepreneurs, and vote for your Crowd Favorite!