EDGE workshop set for Aug. 21 to help startups; board seeks volunteers and promotion for business incentive grant

Yukon Route 66 Main Street will hold its EDGE workshop for entrepreneurs and new businesses on Aug. 21 from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 10 West Main, Economic Vitality point lead Darren Barr told the board on July 23. The board was asked to provide volunteers for setup and to help promote the event, and members were reminded that a business incentive grant program remains open to businesses within the program’s eligibility window.

The nut graf: EDGE is an annual informational event aimed at startups and new businesses; the board emphasized outreach and early engagement so applicants can be guided through the incentive grant process rather than applying at the end of their startup work.

Barr described the theme as “community as your competitive edge” and said the event will include local panelists and an opening speaker. “It will be on August 21 from 05:30PM to 7 at 10 West Main,” Barr said. He asked for volunteers to help with setup (two to three people) and to staff the Main Street table. Director Vicky Davis underscored the need for promotion across social media and websites.

Barr said Heather Turner will serve as the opening speaker and will also participate on a panel. The board discussed outreach and noted the incentive program was designed to work with applicants early in their development so staff can connect them to planning resources and walk them through the application process.

Board members did not take formal votes on the workshop or the incentive program during this meeting. The direction from the meeting was logistical: recruit volunteers for setup and promotion and continue outreach to prospective applicants. No application deadlines or award amounts were disclosed at the meeting; board members seeking details were told to consult Yukon Route 66 Main Street’s website or staff.

Members and community members were encouraged to attend and share event details publicly.