It’s a new year, and that means Start:ME has launched a new cohort of Southside Atlanta entrepreneurs!
Start:ME Atlanta is a business training program designed to serve local entrepreneurs who are ready to see their local economies thrive. Start:ME Atlanta serves three communities, including Clarkston, East Lake, and Southside Atlanta. The program is designed around the belief that local small businesses bring both opportunity and tailored amenities to the community.
One of the reasons we have loved partnering with Start:ME is the way they go all in to make sure these entrepreneurs succeed. Over roughly three months, the cohort members attend workshops, meet with mentors, receive feedback from neighbors, and build their confidence. Throughout the years, we’ve seen board members and staff members like Lisa Haygood, John Chambliss, Jeff Delp, and President Jim Wehner participate in the program as mentors. We’ve loved seeing neighbors chime in during neighborhood feedback night.
As an organization committed to equity, we especially value the way Start:ME empowers entrepreneurs who are often overlooked. The 2023 Southside cohort serves 19 small businesses and over 13 brick and mortar locations. The featured businesses are led by 80% women and 87% people of color. Last year, cohort members saw $1.2 million in revenue. We can’t wait to see the ways this year’s ventures will grow! Reading through the list of cohort members and their businesses adds to the feeling of anticipation.
A thriving local economy, including locally-owned businesses and local job opportunities, is an essential part of a flourishing neighborhood. Ventures like those in Start:ME are uniquely positioned to create that local economy. We are proud of our partnership with Emory Goizueta Business School and Purpose Built Schools Atlanta, which allows us to offer Start:ME to incredible entrepreneurs every year.
Join us in rooting for this year’s cohort! You can RSVP for the VIRTUAL Neighborhood Feedback Night by clicking here.
