#United States #Cleveland #JumpStart Inc. #Julie Jacono #Lorne Novick

JumpStart Inc. Announces Leadership Transition and Interim CEO Appointment

On July 30, 2025, JumpStart Inc., a prominent entrepreneur support organization based in Cleveland, revealed a significant leadership change as Julie Jacono announced her departure as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Julie has decided to embark on a new leadership role, one that aligns with her commitment to fostering innovation in the healthcare sector.

Julie Jacono, who had been at the helm of JumpStart since December 2023, has been instrumental in guiding the organization through a critical phase of strategic transformation and operational enhancement. Under her leadership, the firm successfully established a comprehensive strategic roadmap, achieved a balanced budget, and cultivated a robust executive leadership team. These accomplishments have set a solid groundwork for the organization's sustainable growth and long-term success.

Effective August 4, 2025, the Board of Directors has appointed Lorne Novick as the Interim CEO. With extensive knowledge of JumpStart's mission and operations, Lorne is expected to provide steady leadership during this transitional phase. His familiarity with the organization's stakeholder network will be an asset as JumpStart continues its vital work in connecting entrepreneurs with the necessary resources to thrive.

In reflecting on her time at JumpStart, Julie expressed her gratitude, stating, "Successful businesses drive prosperity for the owner and their community, and JumpStart truly leads in its capability and commitment to providing entrepreneurs with what they need to succeed. It has been an extraordinary privilege to lead JumpStart."

Although her departure is tinged with bittersweet emotions, Julie is optimistic about JumpStart's future. She noted, "I am deeply grateful to the Board, staff, founders, and partners who embraced our vision and helped strengthen the organization for the future. While it's bittersweet to step away, I am confident that JumpStart is well positioned for continued growth. I now look forward to leading a startup, incubated through JumpStart, and seeing the world through the eyes of a founder."

To ensure a cohesive transition, Julie will remain associated with JumpStart as a special consultant to the Interim CEO. In this capacity, she will assist with key initiatives and provide guidance to the executive leadership team, while the Board begins a thoughtful process to identify JumpStart's next permanent CEO.

Cindy Torres Essell, Chair of the Board, commended Julie for her vision and dedication, recognizing the substantial impact she made during her tenure. "We are deeply grateful to Julie for her vision, commitment, and the lasting impact she has made during her time with JumpStart. She has strengthened the organization from the inside out, and we're confident that under Lorne's interim leadership, we will maintain our forward momentum while preparing for the next phase of leadership," she stated.

Despite this significant leadership change, JumpStart's operations, investment activities, and programs will remain strong and uninterrupted. The organization is committed to its mission of driving economic vitality by connecting entrepreneurs to the opportunities and resources they require for success.

As the transition progresses, more details will be shared, but for now, it’s clear that JumpStart is poised for a promising future under new leadership.

About JumpStart Inc.

JumpStart Inc. is a nationally acclaimed organization dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs, specifically focusing on Ohio's technology startups and small businesses. For over 20 years, JumpStart has championed innovation, addressed gaps in access, and strengthened the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem, driving economic transformation in communities throughout Ohio and beyond. For additional information, visit jumpstartinc.org.