E4S Network

Building strong networks is vital to creating an atmosphere where entrepreneurs and change agents can find inspiration, information, support and most importantly connections - connections to suppliers, customers, partners, and investors.

"The region`s goal should be to rebuild an innovation economy in NEO, which will be driven by new networks of innovators both inside and outside existing companies. E4S is one of the lead architects of these networks in NEO." --Ed Morrison, Director of I-OPEN

The E4S Network is the only one in Northeast Ohio that brings together inspired entrepreneurial leaders and change agents from all sectors who are implementing sustainable business practices and those who share our vision for a sustainable future. This shared vision has brought together a diverse and rapidly expanding community. Over the past three years, the Network has grown by more than 30% each year.

Whether an “E4S entrepreneur” is looking to build a new venture, innovate within an existing company, or support and connect with sustainability-driven enterprises, all are welcome to participate. From the business community, E4S has attracted start-ups, middle market companies and businesses with global reach.  Many businesses are from those in the local living economy, the first industries to embrace sustainability: local food, high performance (green building), next generation energy (energy efficiency, wind, solar, fuel cells), transportation, eco-systems services (clean air, water and soil) and recycling (waste=revenue.) Joining them are leaders interested in implementing sustainable business practices from other industries, city, county and municipal governments, academia and the nonprofit sector.

A healthy network is one where ideas move quickly. It is vital to the swift implementation of sustainability principles in our region. To maximize the capabilities of its growing community, E4S is using cutting edge tools such as social network mapping analysis to measure and improve the robustness and resiliency of the E4S Network.