Contributed by MORTAR Cincinnati
Photos provided by MORTAR Cincinnati
MORTAR Cincinnati is proud to unveil The MORTAR Building, its new headquarters, and a groundbreaking entrepreneurial hub in the historic Walnut Hills neighborhood. This highly anticipated event began with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1:00 PM, featuring remarks from MORTAR’s CEO, Allen Woods, Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney, and key stakeholders. The celebration continued with a community house party from 3:00 to 7:00 PM, inviting all to experience this vibrant new space.
For the past decade, MORTAR has been at the forefront of empowering entrepreneurs from historically marginalized communities to build and grow successful businesses. The transformation of the historic Durner Building into The MORTAR Building signifies a bold new chapter. This cultural hub centers Black entrepreneurs and creatives, fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth in a space designed to inspire and uplift.
The MORTAR Building results from an ambitious capital campaign to support this transformative project. With generous support from the City of Cincinnati and contributions from local and national funders, MORTAR has reached 90% of its $8.7 million fundraising goal. As we approach the final stretch, community support remains essential to close the remaining gap and fully bring this project to life.
We invite the press to this landmark event showcasing this impactful project for Walnut Hills and Cincinnati. This is a chance to hear from local leaders and community members involved in this initiative. Your coverage can highlight the importance of inclusive economic development and community revitalization as we seek final support to realize this vision.
Why This Matters
- Historic Revival: Once known as “Cincinnati’s second downtown,” Walnut Hills is undergoing a resurgence. The MORTAR Building breathes new life into the historic Durner Building, playing a key role in the neighborhood’s revitalization.
- Empowering Black Entrepreneurs: The MORTAR Building focuses on breaking barriers for Black entrepreneurs and creatives, offering essential resources and support in a space designed for growth and success.
- $1 Million Milestone with the Iron Chest Fund: MORTAR has provided $1 million in direct support to graduates of our Entrepreneurship Academy through the Iron Chest Fund, offering essential capital to help alumni launch and scale their businesses.
- Economic and Educational Growth: This hub is a cornerstone of Walnut Hills’ resurgence, driving new opportunities for innovation and fostering a collaborative, thriving community.
