Schuylkill Chamber Foundation launches entrepreneurial development program, IGNITE Schuylkill, supported by $100,000 grant pool

(POTTSVILLE, PA – January 23, 2024) - The Schuylkill Chamber Foundation is thrilled to unveil its pioneering initiative, IGNITE Schuylkill, a dynamic competition for emerging entrepreneurs aimed at fostering the growth of early-stage businesses.

Commencing with a comprehensive 16-week educational program, IGNITE Schuylkill will immerse aspiring entrepreneurs in coursework focused on entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership. Distinguished business owners will join as guest lecturers, sharing invaluable insights and expertise. Additionally, local business leaders will serve as mentors, guiding participants through the intricacies of launching a successful business venture.

Community investors have generously provided substantial sponsorship funds to contribute toward the $100,000 in grant funds available to the winner(s).

“Since its inception in 1952, the Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO) has aimed to stimulate and influence the process of economic development, improve the quality of life, and raise the standard of living for Schuylkill County communities and its residents, said Kenneth Huebner, chairman of the Board of Directors of Schuylkill Economic Development Center.

SEDCO is a top program contributor and is the named Program Sponsor.

Huebner said SEDCO partners collaboratively with partners across Schuylkill County on revitalizing our downtowns and believes that entrepreneurial development is a critical component to the solution.

Local entrepreneurs have shown excitement to invest in the program and become involved in the process of sparking new economic development in Schuylkill County.

“I could not be more impressed by this program and of the tools it brings to current and future entrepreneurs, said Bill Metzinger president of Metz Properties and CEO of Red, White and Blue Autos. “I personally think it’s vital for us to grow and prosper in order to not only have talented and successful people coming from out of the area to live in Schuylkill County, but also retain our homegrown, best and brightest.

Culminating in a riveting Shark Tank-esque live competition, the program will provide startup capital to entrepreneurs, offering a crucial financial boost to kickstart their ventures. Official rules and eligibility criteria have been set and are available on the program’s dedicated website, www.schuylkillchamber.com/igniteschuylkill/.

As a program sponsor, the Schuylkill Chamber Foundation has committed $63,000 to the IGNITE Schuylkill program to date. Program Sponsors include:

PROGRAM SPONSOR
Schuylkill Economic Development Corporation (SEDCO) - $15,000

JUDGE SPONSOR
PPL Foundation - $11,000
Metz Properties and Red, White & Blue Autos $10,000

SPEAKER SPONSOR
D.G. Yuengling & Son - $5,000
Hydro - $5,000

PROGRAM CONTRIBUTORS:
Alvernia University Pottsville CollegeTowne
Penn State Schuylkill
The Evans Network of Companies
The M&T Charitable Foundation
Tobash Financial Solutions
Walmart

IGNITE Schuylkill promises to be a transformative experience, empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs to turn their visions into thriving businesses. Join us in igniting the spark of innovation and growth in Schuylkill County. Stay up to date with program updates on the program’s Facebook page, IGNITE Schuylkill, https://www.facebook.com/IgniteSchuylkill

If you are an aspiring entrepreneur who is interested in applying for the program, or a community investor looking to become involved with the program, contact Samantha Chivinski, executive vice president of the Schuylkill Chamber of Commerce, at 570-622-1942 or schivinski@schuylkillchamber.com

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