News Summary
The City of Savannah proudly celebrated the graduation of its second cohort from the Launch Savannah minority business accelerator program. This initiative, designed to support minority entrepreneurs, provides essential resources, mentorship, and financial support to help establish sustainable businesses fueling economic growth. Featured businesses range from restaurant ventures to consulting services, highlighting the diverse entrepreneurial spirit in the community. The program emphasizes the importance of networking and community support for long-term success, showcasing the ongoing impact of the resources offered to its graduates.
Savannah Celebrates Launch of Second Cohort in Minority Business Accelerator Program
On October 1, 2025, the City of Savannah marked a significant milestone with the graduation of the second cohort of Launch Savannah, a minority business accelerator program. Facilitated by the City’s Economic Development Department in collaboration with Startup Savannah and the Small Business Assistance Corporation, this initiative aims to support minority entrepreneurs in establishing sustainable businesses that contribute to the economic growth of Savannah.
The Launch Savannah program spans 12 weeks, offering participants essential educational resources, mentorship, and business growth tools. Upon graduation, each participant received new laptops provided by Comcast, alongside $2,000 vouchers designated for business support services encompassing legal and financial advisement.
Graduates of the Second Cohort
The second cohort of Launch Savannah graduated with a diverse array of business leaders, including:
- Maebelle Alolong – The Narra Tree & Silk Route Restaurant and Lounge
- Rhonda Ancrum – First Class Seating Transport Service, LLC
- Mikal-Anthony Banks – EcoXchange
- Dr. Kathryn S. Belle – Belle’s Boutique Hotel
- Carolyn Guilford – Health Restoration Consulting
- Glorious Mason – Be Glorious Learning Center
- Quinlin Moore – Moore Learning Center
- Larry Morris – Big Larry’s Art
- Jomo Simmons – Qi Tree of Life Holistic Health Services
- Ninoska Smith – Ninoska’s Favorites
- Stavros Tsaklas – Stav’s Souvlaki
- Calvin Wallace – Wallace Landscaping, LLC
- Zelonia Williams – Patches Custom Embroidery Works
Program Goals and Financial Support
Launch Savannah was initiated following recommendations from the City’s Racial Equity and Leadership (REAL) Task Force. The program targets the enhancement of economic inclusivity by encouraging diversity across various sectors. Senior Director of Economic Development, MarRonde Lotson, emphasized the city’s aim for a diversified economic landscape as crucial for sustained growth.
Participants undergo training involving essential business operations such as pricing research, financial planning, marketing, and accessing capital. This focus is particularly relevant as a 2025 Goldman Sachs report indicated that 81% of new entrepreneurs experience difficulties accessing affordable capital when seeking loans or lines of credit. In support of these needs, a scholarship package totaling $50,000 is available for entrepreneurs to use for crucial services like accounting, marketing, and legal advice.
Community and Networking Emphasis
The Launch Savannah program highlights the significance of community and networking, which are vital for business success. Graduates from previous cohorts have reported receiving ongoing mentorship and support after completing the program, underscoring the program’s long-term impact. Zelonia Williams, who owns Patches Custom Embroidery Works, faced challenges due to the Oglethorpe Mall shooting but found renewed support through the Launch Savannah initiative.
The diversity of businesses represented in the accelerator program underscores its commitment to fostering a strong economic representation within Savannah. The program not only boosts individual businesses but also aims to inspire a collaborative spirit among entrepreneurs, thus enhancing their potential for success.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Savannah Launches New Membership Program for Economic Growth
LAUNCH Savannah Celebrates Second Cohort Graduation
Launch Savannah Accepting Applications for Second Cohort
Startup Savannah Launches SPARK Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs
Additional Resources
- Savannah Now: Entrepreneurs Gain Business Skills
- Google Search: Minority Entrepreneurs
- WSAV: Minority Entrepreneurs Resource Shutdown
- Wikipedia: Entrepreneurship
- WJCL: Black Business Expo
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Small Business
- Savannah Tribune: Black Business Expo
- Google News: Business Accelerator Programs
- Savannah Now: New Cohort for City’s Business Accelerator
- Google Search: Business Growth
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
