DEPARTMENT: Economic Development
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Rene Dominguez
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S) IMPACTED: All
SUBJECT:
Briefing on Launch SA's Programming and FY 2017 Annual Report
SUMMARY:
This is a briefing by LiftFund and the City of San Antonio Economic Development Department (EDD) on Launch SA's programming and FY 2017 Annual Report.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
In 2012, a taskforce of business owners and advocacy organizations were convened to brainstorm methods and strategies for promoting small and new business growth in San Antonio. Business participants represented a wide array of industries, including retail, food and dining, engineering, technology, public relations, trade services, and private investors. Business advocacy organizations included various chambers of commerce, the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), LiftFund, the Westside Development Corporation (WDC), and San Antonio for Growth on the Eastside (SAGE).
The taskforce identified the need to establish a culture of entrepreneurship throughout the San Antonio community and increase coaching and mentoring opportunities for future and existing small business owners. The value of existing resources was also highlighted during the taskforce discussions, as well as the need for increased marketing of these resources. The development of Caf? Commerce, rebranded in 2016 as Launch SA, was recommended as a mechanism by which to implement these types of programs. The taskforce further recommended the outsourcing of operations and management of Launch SA to promote an organic and innovation-focused approach to service delivery. Thus, the City sought to identify a partner to further develop, implement and manage Launch SA.
In November 2013, City Council approved a professional services agreement with LiftFund for the operation and management of Launch SA, which includes both a virtual and physical location where entrepreneurs gather, collaborate, and learn more about entrepreneurship and small busine...
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