Calling Mike LeHere part of NEOinc is kind of like calling Nelson Rockefeller a banking guy.  While it’s true, it merely states an incidental fact while missing the real story.

Well, Mike LeHere’s real story was front and center last Friday as he and the incubator that has been his labor of love for 25 years (yes, 25 years), were honored.

With Akron Mayor Don Plusquellic and Ohio Senator Tom Sawyer on hand, along with over 200 well wishers, MIke LeHere was given credit for building the Akron Global Business Accelerator (AGBA) into a nationally-recognized success story.

Up and running for 25+ years now, the AGBA plays an important role in the Akron area and beyond, providing low rent space and no cost business coaching to entrepreneurs from around the region.  Business services includes not only the normal coaching and mentoring, but also regional and international networking opportunities. 

AGBA currently has over three dozen startup companies, including medical device manufacturers, alternative energy companies and polymer developers.  In the last month alone, AGBA tenants added over 40 new employees to their payrolls. 

In a surprise announcement, Mayor Plusquellic presented Mike with a plaque and christened the top technology floors in the AGBA the Michael LeHere Technology Incubator.  Read Paula Schleis’ Beacon Journal coverage for the full story.

Congratulations Mike!