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Empowering Local Entrepreneurs: Streamlining Small Business Support for Business Retention

  • 30 Apr 2025
  • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
  • Zoom meeting - link to be shared
  • 86

Registration

  • Members of the GLEDC at the L1 level and higher can participate for free.
Register


Supporting the small business community and local entrepreneurs is a critical part of a comprehensive economic development strategy.

Existing businesses are already integrated into the community and provide stable jobs. Retaining them helps preserve employment and contributes to the local economy. While supporting local retail entrepreneurs is crucial for community growth, it can be challenging to dedicate the necessary resources.

This webinar explores how an on-demand Small Business Support program can provide equitable access to essential resources for local entrepreneurs without overburdening economic development organizations. Learn how to empower local businesses to thrive while maintaining focus on other critical projects, ensuring balanced and effective economic development.

Our Presenter:

Jenn Gregory serves as the President of Downtown Strategies, a division of Retail Strategies, where she leads initiatives to revitalize downtown areas across the United States. With over 15 years of experience in community development and downtown revitalization, Jenn has become a trusted advisor to nearly 200 cities in 25 states, guiding them in transforming their urban cores into vibrant, economically thriving centers . Before joining Downtown Strategies, Jenn was the CEO of the Greater Starkville Development Partnership in Mississippi. In this role, she implemented the Main Street program and spearheaded policy initiatives aimed at stimulating downtown growth . Her work encompassed a broad range of strategies, including tourism, placemaking, and community engagement. Jenn's expertise has been recognized through her involvement in various initiatives, such as the Innovating Commerce Serving Communities (ICSC) Next Generation Leadership Network. She was named “Top 50 Under 40” professional by Mississippi Business Journal and a Subject Matter Expert on Economic Development by the International Downtown Association.  Jenn is a sought-after speaker, sharing insights on downtown revitalization strategies at conferences and workshops nationwide.​