COLUMBUS, Ind. - The Columbus Area Chamber Foundation continues to offer "Catalyst 100," a new initiative designed to strengthen at least 100 small businesses across Bartholomew County in 500 days.
This program is the Foundation’s legacy gift as it celebrates 50 years of service to the community.
The initiative provides no-cost access to mentoring and professional services to help small businesses strengthen operations, develop growth strategies, improve financial clarity and systems, and increase readiness for a loan or investment.
Through the Catalyst 100 Fund, participating businesses will receive:
One-on-one mentoring from experienced advisors
Free access to professional services, including accounting support, legal guidance, marketing/branding assistance, and restaurant consulting
Connections to a broader network of local resources and partners
Catalyst 100 is focused on small, growing businesses that are:
Located in Bartholomew County
Established and operating for at least one year
Employing 10 or fewer people
Generating under $500,000 in annual revenue
Chamber membership is not required to participate, reinforcing the Foundation’s commitment to serving the broader small business community.
This initiative will serve 100 businesses by September 2027. Small business owners can apply here.
COLUMBUS, Ind. — A Duke Energy power outage in downtown Columbus forced the closure of the Bartholomew County Courthouse and other Columbus City offices on Monday, August 24. About 250 Duke Energy customers were affected.
COLUMBUS, Ind. – Five men were arrested during a sting operation targeting online child sex offenders. Led by the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, the operation involved federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies working undercover to intercept predators seeking unlawful contact with minors.
COLUMBUS, Ind. - The Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce presents "Discover Columbus: How It's Made" on September 2, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees will get a behind-the-scenes look at local businesses while exploring the people, processes, and jobs that keep the community running.
NORTH VERNON, Ind. - The Jennings County Sheriff's Office (JCSO) conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle near U.S. Highway 50 and 5th Street after observing a traffic infraction on Monday, August 24, at around 2 a.m.