Page 19 - Columbus NCG 2019

AMAZING

INNOVATION

Columbus 2025 & StartUP Columbus

light the way to regional success

By Andrew Smith

ust like the Greater Columbus Region, and applying for necessary permits, MacMinn Guided by the Regional Prosperity
the doors of StartUP Columbus are said the free support StartUP provides in Initiative, Columbus 2025 was developed
J open for new businesses. StartUP the initial phases of development can help in 2014 to align the region’s collective
Columbus’ storefront space on eliminate many bumps in the road. community and economic development
Broadway is a prime location for prospective StartUP Columbus is a direct expression efforts in a comprehensive and holistic plan
entrepreneurs looking to take the next step of Columbus 2025, the area’s long-range of action for the next decade and beyond.
on the journey to owning a business or economic development strategy championed The philosophy of Columbus 2025 uses
creating a product. by Columbus officials and organizations, action areas, such as fostering an enterprising
Founded in 2018, StartUP Columbus is including the Greater Columbus Chamber culture, implementing targeted economic
a non-profit business incubator that works of Commerce, the City of Columbus, the growth, and the importance of talented and
with area residents to turn good ideas into Downtown Development Authority, and the educated people.
profitable businesses. Program Manager Ben Columbus State University Foundation. As the concept from which it sprang would
MacMinn said the organization’s mission is suggest, StartUP Columbus is squarely
to support local entrepreneurs by providing focused on new avenues for economic
work space, mentorship and assistance in development, from mom-and-pops to
securing funds to start a new business. large corporations.
“We act as a conduit, if you will, to connect “Of course, we support entrepreneurs that
prospective entrepreneurs to their best generate two or three jobs, but we also want
resource,” MacMinn said. “We want business to focus on ideas and businesses that are
ownership to be an option for all residents of going to employ dozens or hundreds of local
the Greater Columbus Area.” residents,” MacMinn said.
With so many things to consider when To connect with StartUP Columbus, please
starting a business, like securing a license visit StartUpColGa.com.

Greater Columbus Georgia Chamber of Commerce | www.columbusgachamber.com | 706.327.1566 15