Arlington Economic Development launched an Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) program as a new leg to the award winning, nationally recognized BizLaunch Small Business & Entrepreneur Assistance Program, now in its tenth year. The EIR is a mentor whose purpose is to work specifically with fast-growth startups through one-on-one counseling sessions. Every six months the EIR will change. To kick things off they’ve selected power duo Will Fuentes and Cary Scott from Lemur Retail. Here are five good reasons why you should talk to Will and Cary about your Fast-Growth Startup:
- They understand the current business climate in Arlington and the DC region. It’s always great to talk to someone who’s been there before. Will and Cary can offer advice about the current startup scene – one that’s ever changing and ever growing.
- Access to comrades in the entrepreneur community. Will and Cary are well connected and can facilitate introductions to people in your field of business through recommendations of people to connect with, events to attend, groups to join.
- The down-low on finances. Will has experience pitching his own business and successfully selling his idea to investors and customers. He can teach you how to do it too.
- Honesty. You’re not talking to your spouse, mother, best friend, or someone who’s going to tell you how wonderful your idea is just because they’re being nice. Will and Cary will be straight with you about what’s great about your business idea, and what may need some tweaking.
- Customer Service. With a background in web design, user interface/user experience, social media analytics, release planning, marketing and branding, Cary knows firsthand how to cultivate and grow real, lasting relationships with customers.
Want a preview of what Will and Cary have to offer? See them here on the panel of the BizLaunch workshop Lucky 13 – How to Make 2013 the Most Successful Year Ever for Your Small Business.
To schedule an appointment with our EIR’s, contact Melissa at (703) 228-0826.
