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Startup Savannah Launches SPARK Accelerator Program for Entrepreneurs

Entrepreneurs engage in teamwork and innovation at the SPARK accelerator program launch.

News Summary

Startup Savannah has officially launched the SPARK accelerator program, targeted at supporting local entrepreneurs. Kicking off on April 8, 2025, the program features a competitive selection of 15 individuals who will participate in a 12-week course. These budding innovators will gain insights from experienced professionals and learn essential business skills. Additionally, participants can earn Business Development Grants while receiving comprehensive support to develop their business plans and connect with local experts.

Startup Savannah Kicks Off Exciting SPARK Accelerator Program for Local Entrepreneurs

In the vibrant city of Savannah, something big is stirring in the entrepreneurial waters! On April 8, 2025, Startup Savannah officially launched its first-ever SPARK accelerator program. Designed as an intense 12-week course, this initiative aims to support budding entrepreneurs in their quest for success. And guess what? Fifteen dynamic individuals have been selected through a highly competitive application process to jump on this exciting ride!

Meet the Fresh Faces of SPARK

This inaugural class is a diverse group of innovators, each bringing unique ideas to the table:

Nyna Kumi Butler – Melanin Palace
Amy Paige Condon – The Refinery Writing Studio
Hannah Eyre – Savannah Ice Tub Club
Dr. SallyAnn Gray – Gray Focus Training Solutions
Richard Griffin – DR Farm Organic Juices Inc.
Dora Jenkins – Sole of Blaq Pearl
Nicole Lee – Be Smart Home Solutions
Ted Meyer – Roost Aerostorage
Denae Murray – Dee’s Deelish Desserts
JaQuan Oliver – Dear Young People
Dwanjai Owens – After Words Book Club/Bar
Lydia Stearns – Lydia’s Pies
Jah’Va Walker – My Moment LLC
Ethan Watters – Electric Revenue LLC
Sapphire Starr Wilder – Organize Kaos Enterprise LLC

Boosting Entrepreneurs with Tools and Resources

The SPARK program, hosted at SCAD’s Deloitte Foundry, will be a self-propelling engine of innovation. Participants will engage with seasoned professionals, learning from Kauffman FastTrac instructors, the Startup Savannah team, and local business experts. They’ll dive deep into crucial topics such as Market Research, Pricing Strategy, Financial Modelling, and Pitching.

After three months of hard work, each participant is set to walk away with a comprehensive business plan. But the learnings won’t end there! Founders will have the chance to forge valuable connections that could make all the difference in their entrepreneurial journeys.

A Chance to Shine with Business Development Grants

In another exciting twist, participants will also have the opportunity to earn a Business Development Grant. Prizes are up for grabs with amounts of $3000, $1500, and $500 awarded based on engagement in the program. What a fantastic way to reward hard work and creativity!

Community Support Gets a High-Tech Boost

In a gesture of support, Comcast has generously donated a laptop to each founder as the program launched, ensuring that everyone has the tools they need to succeed right from the get-go.

Looking Ahead

As the excitement builds, Startup Savannah is proud to support these entrepreneurs on their journeys of growth and innovation. The city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is getting stronger, and with initiatives like this, we can only expect wonderful things to come. Want to learn more about what’s happening at Startup Savannah? Check out their website at startupsavannah.org.

Here’s to the incredible journey ahead for these talented individuals and the community of Savannah that continues to cheer them on!