Entrepreneurs
Starting a business has an irresistible principle: Own your business and be your own boss. Many resources are available at the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber Alliance to ensure your success...
Amy Lowe, Director of Entrepreneurial Support
The Mount Pleasant Area Development Commission offers direct support for Henry County Entrepreneurs through our Director of Entrepreneurial Support, Amy Lowe. Amy provides one-on-one counseling and assistance in business plan development, finance, marketing, location decisions, and more. The MPADC also has a seasoned team of business mentors with various backgrounds to guide and assist you. Entrepreneur seminars, webinars, continuing education and technical business training are offered in Mount Pleasant and the surrounding area on a continuing basis. Please contact Amy for more information at 319-385-3101 or alowe@mountpleasantiowa.org.
The Great River Region Partnership, which includes representatives from Henry, Des Moines, Lee and Louisa counties, has a website that provides a one stop shop for entrepreneurs at www.greatriverbiz.com. This site provides information ranging from research and planning to writing a business plan and obtaining financing. The website also features local entrepreneur success stories and provides a calendar of workshop and training sessions being held throughout the region.
The Mount Pleasant Area Development Commission (MPADC) hosts the annual Henry County Business Plan Competition sponsored by Alaniz. The competition provides seed capital grants of up to $7,000 to entrepreneurs interested in starting new businesses in Henry County, and/or who have recently opened businesses and are wishing to expand. The deadline for entry is in July of each year. A Review Committee comprised of MPACD members and staff will select finalists from the applicant pool. Finalists will be asked to present their plans to a Selection Committee comprised of MPADC members and Alaniz representatives. The Selection Committee selects award recipients based on the results of the written business plan and personal interview. Award recipients receive up to $7000 for business start-up or expansion costs, business mentoring and community and regional recognition.
The Mount Pleasant Area Development Commission (MPADC) recognizes an outstanding entrepreneur in Henry County each year. Award recipients are an owner/manager of a public or private business in Henry County and have exhibited the passion and perseverance to turn a bright idea into a brilliant business. Previous winners include Jim Sorenson of Momentus Golf, Megan Wettach of Premiere Prom and Bridal Boutique, and JD Schimmelpfennig of Lomont Molding. Nominations for this award are submitted in September of each year.