FOSTORIA, Ohio — After a successful first run in 2021, a program aimed at helping a small business get started in Fostoria is back to help even more local entrepreneurs.
Last year, the first LAUNCH Fostoria program whittled 16 applicants down to four finalists in a competition for who had the best pitch for a local business.
And now the application window for this year's event is open.
The winning small business owner will receive a prize package of $17,000, including one-year lease in a downtown location, a $1,000 grant, $5,000 in marketing and branding, and access to training, courses, and assistance.
"And they get a lot of great feedback through that process as well. Then of course as people move into the finals I think a lot of buzz happens and a lot of people take notice," said Sarah Stephens Krupp, small business director at the Fostoria Area Chamber of Commerce. "So those four finalists got a tremendous amount of publicity and support through it, people are still following their businesses."
Last years winner, Jena Stearns, has since established her business Beyond Laser Creations as a new popular downtown spot.
But it's not only about the winners. The owners of Wavy Baby Clothing, who were finalists, say the exposure and lessons learned through the process helped them to open their own storefront as well.
"Whether you win or not, it's still a good exposure for your business," said Neval McMullen, Wavy Baby COO. "And it could bring in a new market, new clientele. So, get in it if the opportunity presents itself."
Entrepreneurs who would like to enter their business idea into LAUNCH Fostoria have until May 5 to apply.
The finals will be Aug. 5 in downtown Fostoria, where the public will vote on the winner.
"And I know in our community we were extremely proud of just how the community rallied around our small businesses, and we really didn't any retail loss because the community came out and really did support local," Krupp said. "So we do hope to continue that trend, we're seeing it here and I hope it goes nationwide, because it's so important to support local."