Falon Donohue Advocates for Ohio Entrepreneurs as VentureOhio’s CEO

Interview by Steph Greegor

Name: Falon Donohue
Age: 35
Profession: CEO, VentureOhio
Neighborhood: German Village
One-word description: Resilient
Quote: “I enjoy meeting passionate entrepreneurs; their energy is contagious, so I spend a lot of time at startup events.”
Connect: LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter

Falon Donohue is a relationship builder. It’s her passion and love for others that led her to start her own nonprofit, VentureOhio, where the 35-year-old CEO is building a smart, entrepreneurial “ecosystem.”

“Much of my time is spent building relationships with investors, entrepreneurs, community leaders and politicians from across the country and advocating for Ohio entrepreneurs and venture capitalists,” said Donohue. “[We’re] dedicated to improving access to venture capital, fostering collaboration and telling Ohio’s entrepreneurial story.”

The work she does, she said, is “inspiring.”

“I am inspired daily by the incredible entrepreneurs in this community who are changing the world by pursuing their passions,” said Donohue. “It was my dream to be able to support them in some way. I started by attending startup events, and lending support when I could. This path eventually led me to VentureOhio, where I have served as CEO for the past few years.”

This Mansfield native, who now calls German Village home, also serves on advisory boards for the Columbus Chamber of Commerce and Bunker Labs.

“I am a supporter and advisor for startup events across the state,” as well, she said.

In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, yoga and spending time with her friends—usually in her neighborhood.

“I love everything about German Village: the park, restaurants, character, walk-ability, and sense of community.”

In addition to taking her guests around GV, she also recommends the Short North and North Market for out-of-towners. But if it’s her choice, Donohue is heading to her favorite restaurant, Lindey’s.

Falon was named to our annual list of 52 Young Professionals You Should Know in Columbus – one for every week in the year!
Meet the entire “Class of 2018” »