Sep 28 2010 FEDA announces new entrepreneurial program Project Grow Our Own

The Fairfield Economic Development Association (FEDA) announced at its 2010 Annual Meeting a strategic partnership with the Cedar Rapids-based Entrepreneurial Development Center, Inc. (EDC) called Project Grow Our Own. At the annual meeting Curt Nelson, President & CEO of EDC and FEDA Executive Director Brent Willett were on hand to make the joint program announcement. The new program provides professional support and mentoring services from EDC to qualifying Jefferson County entrepreneurs at a reduced cost.

All residents of Jefferson County are eligible to participate in the program who meets the following criteria. The business must be headquartered in the county, conduct interstate commerce and can demonstrate potential to create jobs and wealth in the county.

Funding is awarded up to $1,500 with a 25% match requirement by the applicant. A second round of funding is available and certain conditions apply to be eligible. There is a $50 application fee that must be submitted with the application.

EDC services available through Project Grow Our Own include:

  • Mentoring
  • Administrative/Clerical
  • Sales & Marketing – sales coaching, marketing plans, market research
  • Personnel—team development/hiring
  • Funding Services— venture capital access, equity raising, government resources
  • Executive / Leadership
  • Business Plan Writing
  • Road-Show Presentations
  • Manufacturing Operations or Production Analysis
  • Financial Review & Budgeting Process

For questions regarding Project Grow Our Own or to setup an intake session, contact Brent Willett or Sam Busch at 641-472-3436. More information is also available at GrowFairfield.com.

To read entire media release click here.