For the third straight year, officials with Planters Bank are committed to the SEED Summit — and have full intentions of seeing it, and local businesses, continue to grow.
Set for Friday, January 31, at Hopkinsville’s Bruce Convention Center, the “Startup Economic & Entrepreneur Development,” or SEED, collaboration will be dedicated to those regional business owners still seeking inspirational, educational and network-like opportunities.
Rather than rely on one keynote speaker and a few smaller breakout sessions, Planters Bank Assistant Vice President of Marketing Ashley Jackson said this edition will offer even more tailored conversations with professionals — allowing for more one-on-one discussions.
This slate of professionals includes:
— Chris Wooldridge, an instructor in the Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business, savvy in the areas of finance, banking, and economic development
— Talia Bateman, Professional Sales and Leadership Coach with South Western Consulting
— Sarah Whitaker, owner of Williams Advertising
— And Eric Coleman, CEO of Eric D. Coleman Financial Group
Jackson noted that the SEED Grant Competition is also returning.
The top five will be selected and scheduled for a major pitch session, with the top idea garnering critical support.
Jackson also noted that in the grant application process, one of the more difficult parts is the development of a business plan.
As such, this subject is going to be a major focus at this year’s summit.
That 2024 winner was Brush Creek Farm Meat Processing near Cedar Hill, Tennessee.
Running from 9 AM until about 3 PM, Jackson said that business owners and entrepreneurs would get the most bang for their buck if they stayed for the entire day, but the sessions are designed for targeted needs and a more come-and-go approach.
All of this, Jackson added, is the brainchild of Planters Bank CEO Elizabeth McCoy.
The registration fee is $25, which will be donated to local United Way offices.
The Planters Bank SEED Summit – WKDZ
