Thomasville Joins Southern Cities Economic Initiative: Announces Small Business Incubator
The City of Thomasville is proud to announce its selection for the Southern Cities Economic Initiative (SCEI), a prestigious program led by the National League of Cities (NLC) in partnership with the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.
As part of this initiative, Thomasville received a $15,000 grant from the NLC and joins 19 other cities across the Southern United States to develop innovative strategies that boost economic mobility and drive long-term growth.
Using this momentum, the City is doubling down on its commitment to local entrepreneurs with the debut of Launch Thomasville. This comprehensive small business accelerator is designed to foster upward mobility by providing education, mentorship, and direct financial support to the community’s rising business owners.
Breaking Barriers: Inclusivity and Support
Led by Atalia I. Cardenas, the City’s Economic Mobility Program Manager, Launch Thomasville is built on the principle of accessibility. To ensure every resident has the opportunity to succeed, the City has formed several strategic partnerships:
Spanish Language Outreach: In partnership with the Latino Association of Davidson County, it will provide translation services throughout the classes.
No-Cost Education: Through a partnership with the Davidson-Davie Community College Small Business Center (SBC), this high-level training is offered at no cost to participants.
Student-Led Childcare: To support parent-entrepreneurs, the city has partnered with Communities in Schools (CIS). Local students will provide childcare during sessions, earning community service hours while supporting local families.
Empowering Success Through Education
Facilitated by Ken Griffin of Inherit 3 Group, LLC, the eight-week program runs Thursdays from February 12 to April 2 (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM) at the Thomasville Aquatics Center.
The curriculum is designed to transform "business owners" into "business leaders." The classes will cover essential growth topics, including Leadership & Public Speaking, Strategic Management, and Growth Readiness.
A Network of Support
The City is actively working on additional local partnerships to ensure that, upon graduation, participants have a direct pipeline to critical resources. These partnerships aim to provide streamlined access to:
Capital & Financial Literacy: Direct paths to funding and smart money management.
Professional Standards: Guidance on insurance and legal requirements.
Local Navigation: Expert help in navigating city processes and licensing.
"The city is committed to providing the necessary support to ensure that our businesses are successful," said Atalia I. Cardenas. "We are providing for the future while providing upward mobility and getting our community to a successful future."
Significant Grant Funding Available
The program culminates in a pitch competition on April 9th. Supported by the NLC grant funding, the city will award $14,000 in total grants during this first round.
Eligibility Requirement: Please note that these grant funds are exclusively reserved for the investment and support of businesses located directly within the City of Thomasville.
Ten (10) grants of $1,000
One (1) grand prize grant of $4,000
Ready to Register?
If you are an entrepreneur or an existing business owner within the Thomasville city limits looking to take the next step, applications are now open. Attendance at previous info sessions is not required to apply.
For more information, please contact: Atalia I. Cardenas | Economic Mobility Program Manager Phone: 336-475-5533 | Email: atalia.cardenas@thomasville-nc.gov
