Cleveland rolls out red carpet for Irish businesses eyeing U.S. [Video]

Irish startup entrepreneurs gathered in Northeast Ohio to consider opportunities in the region during the Ohio Venture Capital Fest.

CLEVELAND — New businesses welcome! That’s the message at the Ohio Venture Capital Fest, held in downtown Cleveland. One-on-one meetings gave startup founders access to venture capital investors.

Think of it as speed dating for business. In the mix, a few Irish and U.K. companies looking to make a mark in the U.S. The companies were hosted by Team NEO and the City of Mentor.

“We’re all pulling our resources together to sell the story of Cleveland and beyond and what that opportunity is here. So we’re highlighting our talent highlighting access to manufacturing and the different ecosystems we have here,” said Mark Owens, vice president of marketing with Team NEO.

Irish visitors were quick to praise the Forest City.

“Cleveland is just honestly, I think one of my favorite spots now,” said entrepreneur Rebecca McManus. “The people …