LEWIS COUNTY – Naturally Lewis, an economic development organization, has announced the start of its new pilot program, DBA Lewis County, created to inspire and guide entrepreneurs doing business in Lewis County.

The program aims to help entrepreneurs launch and grow their business, leveraging and connecting existing resources and services to provide a pathway to success. 

“Running a business can be stressful and confusing to navigate; the opportunity provided by the DBA Lewis County Program helps to alleviate the stress and connect you with resources you need to start and grow your business in Lewis County,” said Jenna Kraeger, DBA Lewis County Program Coordinator.

“The program is intended to evolve to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and business owners that are great at the products and services they provide, but may need help in areas where they lack expertise,” Kraeger said, adding that the organization recognizes entrepreneurs and small business owners as the core of the economy.

“Rural entrepreneurs profoundly enrich the communities in which they live and launch their ideas because of their direct connection to the needs of their communities, their knowledge of regional talent and, especially, their commitment to their neighbors,” the program announcement said. “Creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports the sustainable retention and expansion of our businesses is a key component of the DBA Lewis County program.”

DBA Lewis County will serve as a jumping off point for entrepreneurs looking to take the leap to start their business or for existing small businesses looking to scale-up, officials said in an announcement. 

Through customized technical assistance and developing achievable milestones, Naturally Lewis will connect entrepreneurs and existing small businesses with the support services they need, helping to alleviate some of the costs associated along the way. 

Entrepreneurs or small businesses interested in participating in the DBA Lewis County program are encouraged to fill out a brief survey to determine areas of potential technical assistance. Then, Naturally Lewis works with each entrepreneur and small business individually to develop milestones and create the connections to reach those goals. 

Consultants providing support services such as business planning, marketing, bookkeeping and accounting, strategic planning, process improvement, leadership development, human resources and other services are available. 

Those interested in getting involved with the DBA Lewis County program can find information online at https://naturallylewis.com/initiatives/dba or by contacting Kraeger at 315-376-3014 or via email at jenna@
naturallylewis.com.