11th Annual State of Small Business Conference in Savannah Addresses Growth, Equitable Opportunities and Future Vision

11th Annual State of Small Business Returns with Insights for Savannah Businesses

Savannah, a prominent hub of economic and business development, played host to the 11th annual State of Small Business conference on May 1, 2024. Sponsored by the locally owned Carver State Bank, the event was held in conjunction with the Mayor’s annual Small Business Conference in the city.

Collaborative Growth and Equitable Opportunities

In his address, Savannah Mayor Van R. Johnson II espoused a strong belief in the local small business sector’s potential and the city’s commitment to aiding its growth. Announcing a new partnership with the Greater Savannah Black Chamber of Commerce and the Metropolitan Savannah Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Mayor stressed the importance of ensuring equitable opportunities for all entrepreneurs.

Under this new initiative, each Chamber will receive funding of $50,000 to support Black and Hispanic businesses in the city. The funding aims to assist in developing business directories and providing business support, contributing to efforts of building an inclusive business ecosystem.

The Vision for Small Businesses in Savannah

City Manager “Jay” Melder highlighted the focus on three key goals for small businesses: ease of starting a business, operating a business, and doing business with the City of Savannah itself. With over 7,500 businesses within city limits, the City is committed to nurturing and facilitating their growth and success.

Local Business Leaders Share Insights

The conference featured brief presentations by business leaders from a range of sectors, offering a snapshot of their industries and their implications for Savannah’s future and small business owners. The speakers offered their insights on economic trends, industry projections, and potential growth areas, providing valuable perspectives to the attending entrepreneurs.

Building Strong Foundations

Business owners in their first to fifth year represented a significant portion of the conference delegates. Recognizing the importance of these crucial developmental years, Marjorie Young of Carriage Trade PR recommended taking advantage of small business and mentorship programs offered by SCORE Savannah and the City of Savannah. “Statistics say if you are mentored, you are going to make more money,” she advised the audience.

Looking Ahead

Anticipating the growth and bolstered by the support, Savannah’s small business community expressed enthusiastic responses to the conference. As the city plans for the future, it remains committed to the success of small businesses and their integral part in Savannah’s vibrant economy. The City of Savannah is set to provide more insights from the State of Small Business at a later date.

Source:

HERE News Network

Author:

HERE News