Hub welcomes Garrett Davis as Accelerator Program Manager
The SSU Kricker Innovation Hub is happy to welcome Garrett Davis as the new Gaming Accelerator Program Manager. Garrett is tasked with building out the new accelerator program, bringing together gaming startups, mentors, industry partners, and funders to forever change the tech ecosystem in Portsmouth and the surrounding area.
As a dynamic force in the intersection of gaming innovation and technology entrepreneurship, Garrett is a seasoned professional with a proven track record of driving impactful projects from conception to execution. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Information Science from The Ohio State University, Garrett has continually demonstrated excellence in the field, garnering recognition such as the Capstone Design Award for Excellence in Engineering.
While serving as CEO and Co-Founder of Paint BiNumbers Studios, a pioneering software development firm based in Columbus, Ohio, Garrett has been instrumental in building and leading a proficient team that consistently delivers cutting-edge solutions to a diverse range of clients. Under Garrett's leadership, the studio has successfully developed and deployed multiple products, catering to clientele spanning from burgeoning startups to established organizations statewide.
Garrett's portfolio boasts a breadth of impactful projects, including leading the development of a revolutionary 3D web simulation platform for Positive Leadership Solutions, now utilized by over 50 universities nationwide. Additionally, Garrett spearheaded the creation of Therabeat, an Android/iOS application designed to gamify melodic intonation therapy for patients afflicted with aphasia, showcasing Garrett's commitment to leveraging gaming technology for societal betterment.
In parallel, Garrett co-founded RX Games, a healthcare technology startup focused on developing innovative solutions for rehabilitation and therapy. Notably, Garrett played a pivotal role in the development of Recovery Rapids, an Xbox Kinect therapy game designed to aid in the recovery of motor disabilities in stroke victims.
Beyond entrepreneurial endeavors, Garrett has served in various leadership capacities, including as Executive VP of Business Development at i71 Software Solutions and as CTO/Co-Founder of Lumos Columbus, a startup accelerator providing comprehensive support services to early-stage ventures.
Proficient in a diverse array of tools and technologies, Garrett brings extensive industry knowledge in educational games, games as a service (GaaS), and game development methodologies, fostering a culture of innovation, and driving results through effective team leadership and customer-centric approaches.
With a passion for leveraging gaming technology to drive positive societal impact and economic development, Garrett continues to push the boundaries of innovation, positioning Shawnee State University's indie gaming accelerator as a beacon of excellence in the field.
“The vision is simple,” said Garrett. “Make Portsmouth, Ohio and Shawnee State University the best place to make games in the world. Through strategic partnerships, mentorship programs, and cutting-edge resources, we aim to provide unparalleled support to budding developers, propelling them towards success in the dynamic gaming industry. As we embark on this exciting journey with the new accelerator program our aim is to cultivate an environment of creativity, collaboration, and innovation where aspiring indie game developers are empowered to turn their passion for gaming into thriving ventures.”
Shawnee State University and the Hub are also pleased to announce the name for the new accelerator program - Level Up Shawnee State.
“The Kricker Innovation Hub at Shawnee State University stands at the forefront of gaming innovation, fueled by the university's nationally ranked game development program and its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth in the Portsmouth and southern Ohio area. With a rich ecosystem of talent, resources, and industry partnerships, the Hub and SSU are uniquely positioned to catalyze the growth of the gaming sector in our region, creating opportunities for students, alumni, and community members alike to thrive in this burgeoning field.”
Garrett Davis can be reached at gdavis2@shawnee.edu.