In September of 2019, the Town of Buchanan received a Community Business Launch Grant from the Department of Housing and Community Development. The town was presented with the grant by Gov. Ralph Northam. The Community Business Launch assisted the Town of Buchanan in supporting current and future entrepreneurs who are desiring to start, grow or expand their business in the town.
Those who were interested in the one of the grants participated in The GAUNTLET Business Program and Competition, a ten-week program for entrepreneurs that was held at the Community House and virtually due to COVID-19. The process was aided by a collaborative partnership between the Town of Buchanan, Botetourt County Department of Economic Development, Roanoke Regional Small Business Development Center, SCORE, and The Advancement Foundation.
Upon completion of The Gauntlet, participants had the opportunity to pitch their businesses to the Town of Buchanan Community Business Launch Grant Steering Committee to receive grant funds to support the start or expansion of their business in the Town of Buchanan.
Winners of the Community Business Launch grant funds are Sarah Boblett’s Ribbon Me This; Julie McClellan’s Budget Couture; June Morris’ James River Drip; Anna Metheny’s Alyssa’s Gift; and Spring Witt’s Anchorage House. They were announced during the Sixth Annual GAUNTLET Award Ceremony and Graduation on June 26.
Jason Tyree, Buchanan town manager, said, “This has been an exciting opportunity for both current and future entrepreneurs to start, grow and expand their business in the Town of Buchanan! There were many great ideas, friendships, and mentorships that were created through the classes and competition. We are optimistic that the Town of Buchanan is able to continue to expand on this endeavor for years to come!”
