Nonprofit 19 o 9 pitches pop-up event to connect Tequesta entrepreneurs with county resources

Monique Fabio, development director for 19 o 9, a West Palm Beach nonprofit that supports entrepreneurs and small businesses across Palm Beach County, told the Village of Tequesta council on Feb. 13 that the organization would like to host a pop-up meet-and-greet in the village to connect local businesses with 19 o 9’s mentorship, workshops and affordable workspace.

The event would promote 19 o 9’s programs and give small-business owners “a chance to learn about 19 o 9’s resources, build relationships with one another, and explore new opportunities for collaboration and growth,” Fabio said. She asked the council to consider helping promote the event through village channels and to assist in identifying a venue or local partners who might provide food or donations.

The proposal drew positive reaction from council members. One council member said the group had misperceived 19 o 9 previously as merely a co‑working space and described the nonprofit as a “community of resources” that can help both nascent and growing businesses. Multiple council members said they would support promotion through the village’s social media and newsletter and suggested collaboration with the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce for broader outreach. “We are members of the Palm Beach North Chamber, and we often promote our big events through their channel,” Fabio said, adding that 19 o 9 typically would also include chamber promotion for events.

Village staff said the presentation does not require immediate council action and recommended staff-level follow-up to clarify the exact request. Village Manager Jeremy Allen (staff) suggested scheduling a meeting between the nonprofit and village staff to determine whether the request involves use of village web or communications resources, or other formal support that would require council review. “I would think at the very least, some interaction at the staff level, and then bring it back to council for formal action on what exactly is being sought,” he said.

Fabio described 19 o 9 as a 501(c)(3) that offers mentorship, workshops and below-market workspaces; she said the organization’s members travel from across the county and that more than 60% of its supported businesses are women- and minority-owned. Fabio also said the group’s signature collaboration event has provided about $500,000 in pro bono services to emerging businesses. Fabio and other 19 o 9 representatives said they would welcome staff outreach to set up a follow-up meeting.

Staff will meet with the nonprofit and report back to the council with clarified requests and any policy or permitting requirements that would apply, the manager said.