Building Local Economies Roundtable

The Dyer Center hosted a roundtable discussion, “Building Local Economies,” featuring leaders and entrepreneurs who are actively strengthening the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The event highlighted how crucial local, non-profit financial support is for entrepreneurs who might otherwise lack the capital to launch their ventures.

The discussion featured Christopher Hudock of the Rising Tide Community Loan Fund, alongside two inspiring women entrepreneurs who successfully received funding and coaching from the organization: Andrea Rincon (Casa 401) and April Khalil (Smartivities).

Each entrepreneur shared their personal story, underscoring the immense value of having access to both small business funding and targeted coaching provided by an organization like Rising Tide. Their experiences illustrated that the entrepreneurial ecosystem is not only comprised of large venture capital firms, but also of dedicated, mission-driven non-profits providing crucial early-stage support.

From Idea to Capital: Student Questions

The conversation quickly turned practical as students posed direct questions about the reality of starting a business. They inquired about funding options beyond traditional banks, asked how one finds the courage to start when facing uncertainty, and specifically queried how to successfully put together a business plan.

The panelists’ advice was clear and encouraging: get help. They emphasized that entrepreneurs do not have to be experts in every area and that there is a wealth of support available through local organizations, mentors, and community loan funds. The key is to be proactive and persistent in looking for it.

The roundtable reinforced the notion that entrepreneurship is deeply connected to community health. By supporting local entrepreneurs, organizations like Rising Tide are creating sustainable value, generating local jobs, and ensuring that diverse voices and innovative ideas can thrive in the local economy.