Applications are now open for a business plan competition focused on retail, recreation and tourism in Giles County. They’re offering mentoring workshops for applicants and thousands of dollars for winners to start or enhance existing businesses.
Giles is a rural, community in the mountains with some of the best outdoor recreation in the state. But the population is declining and there are not enough businesses to cater to tourists and locals who want to enjoy it.
"We have a list of available properties that are move in ready," says Cora Gnegy is Tourism Marketing Director.
“We have property owners that are supportive of the program and trying to find someone that would be successful in their location. And so, whether it's in downtown Rich Creek or in one of our, villages like Eggleston or Newport that's not an incorporated town but has storefronts, the hope is that somebody with a great business idea and a good passion will be able to have a successful storefront.
Beginning in late January, applicants will work with mentors to develop a business plan with a “Pitch Night” in mid-March. “Think of it as Giles County shark tank style.”
“We're unique, we've got five, municipalities within the county, five towns. I would like to see all of them have thriving downtowns with restaurants.”
Jason Buckland is a lawyer who grew up in Giles. He’ll be one of the mentors guiding prospective or existing business owners (of fewer than 2 years) who enter the business plan competition, called, Jumpstart Giles. Up to $33,000 in cash prizes, and more in professional services, will go to the winners. Buckland hopes it will jumpstart the process of building the economy there.
“I would like to see Giles County become both a destination for tourists and tour space businesses, but also the destination for companies looking to start up or relocate to diversify our economy.”
The competition, called “Jumpstart Giles”is open to new or existing businesses. Funding is from the Department of Housing and Community Development. The deadline to apply is January 23rd.
