Former Cintrifuse exec named head of Flywheel Social

Donna Zaring is the new executive director of Flywheel Social Enterprise Hub, a Cincinnati-based startup accelerator supporting social entrepreneurs.

Founded in 2011, Flywheel supports early-stage founders dedicated to creating a more equitable and sustainable community in efforts such as housing and sustainability. It offers a combination of private coaching, subject matter experts, collaborative learning, and access to a network of startup resources.

The role seems like a natural fit for Zaring who’s no stranger to the local startup ecosystem. She comes to Flywheel from Cintrifuse, where she spent two and a half years as director of external relations and development. There, she worked to secure funding from regional corporations and foundations and helped lead StartupCincy initiatives. She also has extensive business experience, previously serving as vice president of client services and strategy for Burke and as vice president of Fifth Third Bank.

“We could not be more thrilled to have Donna join us,” said Rebecca Riegelsberger, the chair of Flywheel’s. “Her service to our community over more than two decades follows our social commitment while helping entrepreneurs succeed.”

A graduate of Miami University, Zaring serves on the board at the Cincinnati Museum Center and the Zaring Family Foundation. She previously held board positions with Mercy Health and Jason’s Connection, a local nonprofit focused on disability, mental health and aging services. 

“I am honored and excited to lead the team at Flywheel,” Zaring said. “I’m eager to continue and grow Flywheel’s impact by supporting entrepreneurs who are innovating to make our community and our world a better place.”

Flywheel Social Enterprise Hub