Where to go when a business idea sprouts

     It’s starting to feel a lot more like spring as I write this column. It’s warmer out, the sun is bright, and the days are starting to get longer. I know that a lot of people love spring because it has that sense of rebirth right after the harshness of the winter months and feeling like it will never end. There is a new sense of starting something, be it spring cleaning, a better exercise routine, or even a new business idea that percolated all winter long. Just like the green elements of our spring need some help in getting started, so do our local entrepreneurs and businesses that are just getting started.

     There are a number of resources that people can use in a community. Friends, family, financial institutions, business associations, and more. However, there are three specifically that Monticello entrepreneurs need to know about. The first one is the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). This entity has been around for decades and helps new (and existing) business owners work on the foundation of their business. They can help with business and succession planning, finding information on competitors and market need, and being a continuous resource as you get started on your journey. The SBDC representati is a regional representative and can meet with you locally to help determine next steps.

     A new resource that will be helpful for many budding and current businesses is the Innovation Lab going into the old Dollar General downtown. Much like the SBDC, they can help with some of those initial questions like a business plan. But the Innovation Lab coaches also work to train your mind in process, development, and much more. They are a long-term mentor that can help you with questions as you grow. Plus, depending on the type of business you want to start or grow, you can be housed in the Innovation Lab downtown!

     A third resource is Jones County Economic Development (JCED). While we can offer the same services as the other two entities, we can also offer more direct involvement. We can offer local conditions, help introduce you to other local mentors, work to see if there is any funding to assist in your creative enterprise, and much more. We know what a strong business community, especially one that supports new business development and growth, helps engender a strong overall community.

     Always remember that JCED is here as a resource to your business and that we always try to help our businesses and communities grow and prosper. Anytime you have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out by contacting me at director@jonescountydevelopment.com.