The New Entrepreneur Opportunity Fund (NEO Fund) is an Ashtabula based non-profit organization. NEO Fund began in 2011, providing training for those interested in starting a new business in Ashtabula. NEO Fund also made loans to small start up businesses.
In 2020, the role of the organization changed focus solely to entrepreneurial education. NEO Fund is now focused on training people that are interested in starting a new business and coaching small business owners that want to get better at and grow their business.
The People
Executive Director
Kelly Sposito
With a passion for nurturing start-ups and small businesses, Kelly Sposito embarked on her entrepreneurial path, founding a local business that played a pivotal role in the growth and success of the Historic Ashtabula Harbor District. Her venture not only thrived but also became a catalyst for rejuvenating the area, contributing to its vibrancy and charm.
Having experienced the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, Kelly understands the challenges faced by local businesses. Her journey has been guided by the mentorship of a local business network group, now officially known as New Entrepreneurs Opportunity Fund (NEO Fund). Over the years, Kelly has not only benefited from this network but has also given back by volunteering with NEO Fund for over a decade.
Based in a small but vibrant office in Downtown Ashtabula, Kelly serves as a driving force behind NEO Fund's initiatives. Her days are a blend of strategic planning, community engagement, and networking. You can often find her at her office, collaborating with local entrepreneurs, or out and about, fostering connections within the Ashtabula community.
Instructor and Peer Support Group Facilitator
Larry Polena
Larry is the instructor for the classes and facilitator of the Peer Support Group Programs. Larry spent 34 years in industry, including leadership positions in Marketing, Customer Service and Information Technology. Most recently, he has taught at Notre Dame College and Lakeland Community College, before joining the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program at Tri-C. In the 8 years he has been with the Goldman Sachs Program, he has worked with over 650 small businesses.
The NEO Fund Board
Nate Rockwell
Nate is the founding member of Briquettes Smokehouse, Bascule Bridge Grille, and 5th St. Kitchen – all located in Ashtabula, Ohio. He is a NEO Fund board member as well as a coach for NEO Fund students, Entrepreneur Capital Ashtabula borrowers and a board member to the Kent Hospitality Management advisory board. He is an extremely active member of his community and hobby farmer.
Laura E. Jones
Laura has been the Executive Director of LEADERship Ashtabula County since 2009. She has served as a Board of Trustees member and officer for many Ashtabula County non-profit organizations, including the Growth Partnership for Ashtabula County and the Ashtabula County Airport Authority. Laura is committed to civic endeavor and inclusive educational opportunities for local communities.
Alice McCarthy
Alice is co-founder at the Business of Good and owner of Cones Ice Cream Parlor & Etcetera on Bridge Street in Ashtabula, Ohio. Cones Ice Cream Parlor is part of the revitalization of the Bridge Street District.
Jim Timonere
Jim has been the City Manager of Ashtabula since 2011. He is past president of the Ashtabula Area Chamber of Commerce and Varsity Football Coach at Saint John and Saint Paul High School.
George Stouffer
George is a retired Senior Sales Executive at Huntington Insurance and President of Stouffer-Herzog Insurance in Ashtabula.
Shane Styzej
Shane is the General Manager of Briquettes Smokehouse in Ashtabula
Christy Garrod
Christy Garrod has been the Director of Advancement for Saint John School since 2006, working with constituents to support and advance the mission of the school in our community. She is excited to be involved and support entrepreneurs, locally owned businesses and a community wide support system as they continue to build and grow a thriving Ashtabula County.