October 4, 2025

Savannah Celebrates Second Cohort Graduation in Minority Business Accelerator

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.