Grants Pass City Council Considers $80K Grant for New Downtown Business Incubator

In the heart of Grants Pass, the City Council convened on September 3, 2025, to discuss a pivotal initiative aimed at fostering local entrepreneurship. The proposal, presented by Dr. Kimfries of Seed Collective Catalyst LLC, seeks to establish a business incubator and innovation space at 218 Southwest G Street, a project that has been part of the urban renewal plan since 2016.

The council is considering a grant of up to $80,050 to cover startup costs over two years, which would include essential build-out, equipment, and programming. This initiative aligns with the council's goals of promoting economic growth and revitalizing the downtown area, ensuring it remains a vibrant hub for community activity.

Dr. Kimfries, an experienced entrepreneur and educator, emphasized the need for such a space, particularly in light of previous efforts to launch a similar project that faltered during the pandemic. She envisions the incubator as a launchpad for diverse businesses, including those in food and beverage, textiles, technology, and the arts. The facility would provide shared tools, training, and support to help entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of starting and scaling their businesses.

The proposal has garnered support from various local organizations, including Rogue Community College and the Southern Oregon Regional Economic Development Inc. However, some council members raised questions about the funding sources and the financial contributions from partner organizations. Dr. Kimfries clarified that while the Southern Oregon Innovation Hub has received state funding, this specific incubator project is independently initiated and aims to address broader community needs beyond what existing funding can support.

The council's discussion highlighted the potential impact of the incubator on the local economy, with estimates suggesting it could help launch 30 to 50 new businesses in its first year. As the meeting concluded, the council was left to weigh the merits of the proposal against the backdrop of community needs and economic development goals, with a decision on the grant expected in the coming weeks.