Explanation
BACKGROUND: This legislation authorizes the Director of the Department of Development to enter into a not-for-profit contract with Greater Columbus Chamber of Commerce, a non-profit corporation, in an amount up to $124,964.30 for the purpose of administering a program under Accelerate Columbus 2024. Through Accelerate Columbus, the City seeks to nurture a pipeline of entrepreneurs and small businesses that reflects the talent and diversity of Columbus. The ultimate objective of Accelerate Columbus 2024 is to provide structured qualitatively and quantitatively measurable programs that strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem. In alignment with the Columbus Small Business Agenda, programs should have special consideration for businesses in low- to moderate-income areas, minority, and women-owned businesses.
In 2019, the City of Columbus launched Accelerate Columbus Small Business as part of a branded set of small business training, technical assistance, mentoring, and advisement programs targeting aspiring entrepreneurs and existing small business owners. Initially offered as a pilot program, the goal of the program was to provide structured as well as on-demand training, one-on-one advisement, and technical assistance to both aspiring and existing entrepreneurs and small businesses.
The Department utilized the Request for Proposals (RFP) process in accordance with City procurements standards to solicit proposals. Proposals were submitted in response to RFQ025308 in accordance with the relevant provisions of Chapter 329 of the Columbus City Codes. The Director of Development will enter into contract with ten organizations under the authority of Columbus City Code Section 329.18. These six non-profit and four for-profit organizations will all provide different small business training and technical assistance programs under Accelerate Columbus 2024. Additional legislation concerning the other nine organizations will be submitted concurrently with th...
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