Explanation
This ordinance authorizes the City Clerk to enter into a grant agreement with the We Elevate You Foundation, in support of their annual gala supporting BIPOC entrepreneurs.
The funds raised through this annual gala will provide support to a number of Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESO), flowing through these ESOs to help aspiring BIPOC entrepreneurs in Columbus access the resources they need to successfully develop and grow their business concept.
The mission of the foundation is to give aspiring entrepreneurs the necessary resources to ensure their longevity as business owners. The education ultimately provided through this gala includes monthly workshops on business basics like finance and marketing, accelerator programs for both business concepts and for early-stage businesses, and boot camps to provide professional development to business owners.
The support of Columbus City Council will go to the foundation’s venue rental, event management, marketing, supplies, or personnel needs for their annual gala. The gala will occur on January 7, 2023, making emergency legislation necessary to support the organization in a timely manner.
Fiscal Impact: Funding is available within the Job Growth subfund.
Title
To authorize the City Clerk to enter into a grant agreement with the We Elevate You Foundation, to support the organization’s annual gala supporting BIPOC entrepreneurs; to authorize an appropriation and expenditure within the Job Growth subfund; and to declare an emergency. ($5,000.00)
Body
WHEREAS, the We Elevate You Foundation provides support to entrepreneur support organizations that help aspiring BIPOC entrepreneurs in Columbus access resources for their success as business owners; and
WHEREAS, Columbus ranks below the national average in terms of its share of women, Black, Hispanic or Latinx-owned businesses; and
WHEREAS, Columbus City Council seeks to promote pathways out of poverty and economic stability, including through en...
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