Flywheel Social Enterprise Hub and the City of Cincinnati have launched the Pave the Way Innovation Lab, a way to create scalable solutions for pothole detection, repair, and prevention.
Tire Discounters serves as the presenting sponsor of the program. It will connect civic technologists, entrepreneurs, transportation experts, and urban planners to reimagine road maintenance.
“Pave the Way is rethinking the way we manage one of the most persistent urban infrastructure issues with 21st-century solutions,” said Cincinnati City Councilmember Evan Nolan. “Potholes aren’t just a nuisance. They damage vehicles, burden city budgets, and deteriorate our neighborhoods. This initiative is about more than road repair. It’s about investing in innovation that protects our residents’ quality of life.”
“By connecting diverse problem-solvers and giving them access to real data, expert guidance and civic insight, we aim to uncover breakthroughs that are scalable, sustainable and immediately relevant,” said Donna Zaring, Executive Director of Flywheel Social Enterprise Hub.
Key Dates For the Pave the Way Innovation Lab
The lab follows a structured process:
- Screening & team selection: A committee of partners and subject matter experts reviewed applicants. About 10 teams will be chosen and notified in September.
- Sprint week (Week of Sept. 8): Selected teams will refine their proposed solutions with mentorship and access to a dedicated data portal.
- Demo day (Sept. 24): Finalists will present their solutions live before a panel of judges and community members. The top team will receive a $5,000 grant plus ongoing Flywheel support to scale and potentially pilot their idea with the City of Cincinnati.
“Potholes aren’t just frustrating. They impact the everyday driving experience for all of us,” said Crissy Niese, Senior Vice President at Tire Discounters. “We’re proud to support Pave the Way as Presenting Sponsor. This forward-thinking initiative reflects the innovation and collaboration needed to improve our roads and strengthen our community, a mission we’re honored to support.”
