Economic developers create founder mentorship program

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The Platform at Greer, an entrepreneurial program of Greer Development Corp., has launched a new six-month mentoring initiative.

Since its establishment in 2019, Platform at Greer has developed a number of professional groups including an Entrepreneur Bootcamp, which first fanned the idea of one-on-one counseling for founders with volunteers from large corporations like BMW, Michelin and Sage Automotive Interiors, according to a news release.

“What stood out was everyone’s willingness to help and empower even after the bootcamp,” Shelly Waite-Bey, owner of cybersecurity consultant firm Waite SLTS, said in the news release. “I now have mentors with whom I can be vulnerable and open to talk about my business fears and anxieties.”

For the new program, a group of entrepreneurs and small business owners will be matched for each cohort, lasting six months. Mentors will share advice on business challenges in an informal setting to provide a different perspective on issues that seem to range from overwhelming to indomitable to newer entrepreneurs.

“With an initial goal to help create a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in Greer, The Platform at Greer now offers a full eco-system of opportunities for entrepreneurs and innovators who want assistance and support to develop their business and who appreciate the experience of being in a supportive community,” Reno Deaton, executive director of the Greer Development Corp., said in the release

The Creative Tempest, Bobby's BBQ and Catering, Gates Technology, Greenville Christmas Trees and Upstate Smart Home Solutions make up the first cohort of mentors. Following the completion of the initial mentoring groups, The Platform at Greer will develop an application process for future mentoring cohorts.

“Through the work of our corporate partners, core leadership team, and the many entrepreneurs who validate the quality of our programs, we are proving that Greer is an innovative and entrepreneurial community and that entrepreneurs and innovators can be successful here,” Deaton said in the release.