YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – YBI has officially cut the ribbon on a major renovation of its main facility, marking the first significant update to the building in more than 15 years. CEO Barb Ewing says the project reflects the quality and growth of YBI’s programs and signals a renewed commitment to supporting local startups and innovation.
The eight-month renovation added new office space, improved natural lighting with newly installed windows, upgraded hallways, stairwells and restrooms, modernized the conference room for events, refreshed the parking lot and introduced updated telecommunications systems to support advanced programming.
Ewing noted that the improvements were long overdue and essential to keeping pace with YBI’s expanding impact. “It feels fresh and clean and like a place that great things could happen,” she said, highlighting how added light and open accessibility have transformed the building’s atmosphere.
The renovation was made possible through financial support from the city of Youngstown, Mahoning County commissioners, local foundations, private donors and other community partners, including the Youngstown Foundation, Sam and Donna Boak, MG Electric, RT Vernal Paving & Excavating and several philanthropic funds.
Ewing says the updates not only improve functionality for staff and tenants but also reinforce the sense of community that defines the incubator. “We’re no longer hidden in closets. … It just changes the atmosphere entirely,” she said.