Makers Mill, the new community makerspace at the forefront of empowering creators, inventors, and entrepreneurs, proudly announces an all-encompassing program designed to uplift aspiring and established business leaders. With a profound commitment to fostering entrepreneurial endeavors, Makers Mill is now positioned as a key catalyst for business development through its collaborative partnership with the Small Business Development Corporation (SBDC), Wentworth Economic Development Council (WEDCO), and Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA). The unique collaboration is designed to reach out to those who have started a small business, want to start a small business, or are an entrepreneur with a great idea.
“The small business economy in the Eastern Lakes Region and beyond is the cultural and economic backbone of our community. Over 88% of businesses in our area have fewer than 20 employees, and all of those employees become supporters of small businesses. It is a vital cycle of support. A healthy small business economy begins with a good idea but is sustained by good business practices. The Small Business Development Center works one-on-one with individuals to offer no-cost, confidential business advising, and Maker’s Mill provides the gateway to connecting with those good ideas and those future entrepreneurs”, according to Jack Terrill, Executive Director of WEDCO.
Through a Micro-Enterprise grant issued by the Community Development Finance Authority, these three organizations are also positioned to assist low to median-income individuals who might not have otherwise been able to receive these services. This could mean free membership and a training stipend at Makers Mill. Some participants may also be eligible for an equipment grant of their own if they need a special piece of equipment to grow their business.
“We look forward to expanding our available services into technical business advising with the help of SBDC. Our mission is to enrich lives and foster fulfilling livelihoods, and this is a terrific opportunity for our patrons who want to become business owners. We look forward to working with WEDCO and SBDC in this new and exciting venture,” said Josh Arnold, Executive Director of Maker’s Mill.
Amy Sterndale, business advisor with the SBDC summed the partnership up as “a true chance to meet more inspired individuals who are determined to succeed through sound business practices. That is exactly what we are here to do for others, and this unique partnership will help us attain that goal.”
Area residents interested in signing up for advising should visit www.NHSBDC.ORG and request advising to be assigned to a business advisor at no cost. Entrepreneurs who have undergone the SBDC consultation process and are poised to harness the potential of Makers Mill’s resources to advance their business development goals will find this grant a game-changing pathway to success. This invaluable access to a vibrant ecosystem of innovation, creativity, and collaboration could be the pivotal force propelling their ventures to new heights.
For more information or to learn more about Makers Mill, contact Josh or Carol at 603-569-1500 or email info@makersmill.org. Makers Mill is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent permitted by law.