Jay Bedi: Building Community Through Hospitality, Education, and Meaningful Projects

Jay Bedi has always believed in the power of bringing people together. He knows firsthand how important the hospitality industry is—not just for the economy, but also for people’s lives. Whether it’s a family vacation, a business trip, or a simple dinner out with loved ones, these shared moments often happen thanks to the work of people in hospitality.

“I’ve seen how hospitality supports economic growth and creates job opportunities,” Jay says. “But it’s also where people make some of their best memories—vacations, special celebrations, or business meetings. These moments matter, and hospitality helps make them possible.”

Over the past 20 years, Jay has worn many hats in the Greater Cincinnati area. He first made a name for himself by opening one of the city’s earliest Indian restaurants. That experience helped him discover his love for creating events and organizing weddings—bringing people together in joyful and meaningful ways.

Taking On Bigger Projects with Purpose

Today, Jay is focused on bigger goals that go beyond hospitality. His attention is now on projects that aim to solve larger problems in society, such as mental health awareness and better public transportation.

“I’m using my experience to focus on things that matter to the community,” he says. “These are the kinds of challenges that impact everyday life, and I want to be part of the solution.”

Jay’s career has taken many different paths, but one thing has stayed the same: his desire to help others and create positive change. From food and events to real estate and education, he looks for opportunities where he can make a difference.

Helping Children Learn and Grow with Elevated Minds Academy

Another area Jay is passionate about is early childhood education. He currently serves as a consultant at Elevated Minds Academy, a preschool and daycare center for kids from 6 weeks old up to 12 years.

The school offers a creative mix of subjects like science, math, reading, and language skills, giving young children a strong start in life. “If we give kids a good foundation early on, they have a much better chance of doing well later,” Jay says.

But this project isn’t just about helping children. It also shows how blighted or unused real estate—properties that might otherwise go to waste—can be turned into something that helps families, boosts the community, and creates a smart investment for business owners.

“This model is really exciting,” Jay explains. “It supports kids and parents, improves neighborhoods, and creates value for investors too.”

A Belief in Warmth, Kindness, and Human Connection

For Jay, everything comes back to hospitality—the idea of making people feel welcomed, comfortable, and understood.

“Hospitality is about more than just service,” he says. “At its core, it’s about kindness and warmth. It brings people from different backgrounds together. It helps people feel like they belong.”

Jay believes this kind of human connection is more important than ever. In a world where people often feel disconnected, he sees hospitality as a way to build bridges between cultures and communities.

Looking for New Projects and Partners

Jay’s passion for bringing people together has guided him for more than two decades in the Cincinnati area. Now, he’s ready to take on new challenges and meet others who share his interests.

“I’ve started and grown businesses, worked in real estate, and helped companies achieve fast growth and successful exits,” he says. “If you have a business idea, a property, or a project you want to explore, I’d love to talk. Let’s find out how we can work together.”

Whether you’re looking to partner on a community project, sell a business, develop real estate, or launch something new, Jay is always open to connecting with others who care about making a real difference.