THOMASVILLE – Eleven minority-owned business owners have successfully completed the inaugural “Business Finance Essentials” workshop series, a groundbreaking program that marks a significant milestone in helping underrepresented entrepreneurs secure the capital they need to grow their businesses and build a legacy of success, according to a press release from InvestTVL, the program’s sponsor.
Cochetta Gant, owner of New Oak Academy and Willow Early Learning Academy, said she participated in the training because she recently expanded her business and needed additional working capital to build her customer base. InvestTVL’s Spark Alumni Fund is offering low-interest loans for working capital or furniture, fixtures and equipment, according to a press release.
“People often forget that child care is a business and to be successful, you must know and implement best business practices. InvestTVL offers business owners the opportunity to scale their operations and become sustainable by providing hands-on training focused on the financial health of their business,” Gant said.
Group participant and filmmaker Likela Reynolds said, “The Loan Fund workshop was a valuable resource. As a creative, I often focus on my craft but realize that it’s only half of my business. The workshop gave me a comprehensive view of my financial situation and highlighted the importance of bookkeeping. Understanding where your money is going is essential to maintaining a healthy, stable business. I applaud Spark for offering this to us entrepreneurs.”
The journey began on May 8 with an introductory class followed by a ribbon cutting at the Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce. The selected entrepreneurs then embarked on a transformative four-week cohort focusing on key aspects of business finance, including business funding, understanding financial statements, business finance software and completing personal applications. Throughout the program, participants received one-on-one assistance from dedicated community experts.
“We are incredibly grateful for the generous support of our partners, without whom this program would not have been possible,” said DeShay Williams, director of Spark Thomasville. “Imagine Thomasville, Partnership for Inclusive Innovation (PIN), TNB, TC Federal, The First Bank, Albany Community Together and O’Neals Consulting and Training Services played key roles in making this workshop series possible.”
Special recognition was given to Spark Thomasville board member Willie Allen, InvestTVL consultant Katie Chastain and Spark Thomasville volunteer cohort speaker and coach Earl Williams for their efforts in supporting entrepreneurs.
“The Business Finance Essentials cohort provided entrepreneurs with the critical tools and knowledge to master financial management. This understanding will enable companies to achieve sustainable growth and long-term success,” said Willie Allen, Spark Thomasville board member.
Graduates of the 2024 Business Finance Fundamentals Workshop series will be prepared to create jobs, build wealth and make a lasting impact in the Thomasville community, according to a press release.
“We are thrilled to celebrate the success of this inaugural class,” said Williams. “These hard-working entrepreneurs have demonstrated a dedication to growth and success, and we are confident they will continue to thrive and contribute to the economic viability of our community.”
“Spark Thomasville and InvestTVL remain committed to supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs through education, mentorship and access to affordable capital,” according to the press release. “The two organizations look forward to continuing to work together to create a more inclusive, vibrant and prosperous Thomasville for all.”
For more information about Spark Thomasville and InvestTVL, visit www.sparkthomasville.com or https://www.thomasvillecdc.org/resources
