REV Spotlight: Montgomery
The Rural Entrepreneurial Ventures (REV) is an entrepreneurial development program designed to advance small town economies through a targeted business approach. REV provides coaching, resources and connections throughout the visioning and implementation process as each community explores what economic development means for their town. As we seek communities under 10,000 to join the next REV cohort, we are sharing some stories from our current REV communities. The REV group in Montgomery shared some of their thoughts about the program.
REV Montgomery
What was the entrepreneur/business-scape like before REV started?
We – the city staff – did not know the extent of our entrepreneurs or small businesses. We didn’t know how many there were, what services were provided, where they were located, etc. prior to engaging in the REV program. The general business community was starting to slowly grow, with new services filling vacant buildings in the city’s central business district. There was also a lack of knowledge about what support could be provided by the city and other organizations. City staff and the EDA were more “passive” when dealing with business development; we generally waited for individuals/businesses to contact us.
What has REV looked like in your community? How has the entrepreneur/business-scape changed since REV started?
The “business / entrepreneur scape”, has slowly been improving. If there is a vacancy in a building, it is quick to fill. We have made many positive connections to our business community as part of the REV effort. While it did not result in a new business, the REV one-on-one interviews opened the door to working with a business that was looking for space.
What would you tell someone considering REV for their community?
I would advise this is a good opportunity to find and connect with your business and entrepreneur base; to revise the city’s resources and assistance programs and marketing. The challenge will be to engage the right group that can put in the time and effort to make the program a success. You will also want to make sure you have council and board support.
Communities interested in jumpstarting their local economy through the REV program should submit a letter of interest by June 12, 2023. Find details here.
