Relaunch of Launch SA: A New Era for San Antonio Entrepreneurs
Published on October 01, 2024
City of San Antonio and Geekdom celebrate new space, new look, enhanced resources.
SAN ANTONIO (October 1, 2024) – Today, Launch SA, the premier resource center for San Antonio's entrepreneurs and small business owners, is celebrating its highly anticipated grand re-opening at its newly redesigned space in the San Antonio Central Library, 600 Soledad St.
“The reimagined Launch SA is a symbol of our city’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting our small business community,” said Matthew Espinoza, Director of Launch SA. “We’re excited to unveil the new space, our refreshed branding and new tools and resources like Launch SA Link that will empower local business owners to take the next step in their journeys.”
The relaunch marks a significant milestone for Launch SA, which has been the cornerstone of the city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem since its founding. A ribbon-cutting ceremony kicks off a full day of programming, including panel discussions, workshops, and an introduction to the innovative resources now available for business owners.
“The City of San Antonio is thrilled to be in partnership with Launch SA to provide small business owners and entrepreneurs resources they can use to grow and strengthen their business,” said Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “Through initiatives like Launch SA we are creating a citywide sustainable small business ecosystem and empowering business owners with resources for success.”
The revamped headquarters at the Central Library’s first floor offers exciting new additions, including an ecosystem mapping tool and enhanced small business data resources, which will also be available at satellite locations throughout San Antonio.
“There should be no wrong front door for small businesses in finding resources,” said Brenda Hicks-Sorensen, Director of the City of San Antonio’s Economic Development Department. “Our goal with the new and improved Launch SA is to create a hub for small business owners and entrepreneurs where they can more easily access resources that contribute to their success. We are excited to partner with Geekdom, bringing their expertise to mentorship, resources, and training events to our small business community.”
In September of 2023, the City of San Antonio approved a $1.7 million, three-year agreement with Geekdom to manage the operations of Launch SA.
“Expanding access to resources is critical for the continued growth of our city’s small businesses, said Charles Woodin, CEO of Geekdom. “Since beginning Geekdom’s partnership with the City of San Antonio, more than 546 entrepreneurs have been helped through the Launch SA assistance process. We’re committed to continually growing those opportunities.”
The day is filled with opportunities for business owners to connect and learn, starting with a Small Business Community Panel at 11 a.m. and followed by specialized workshops designed to help businesses level up in key industries. The day concludes with an Open House from 4 - 6 p.m., where attendees can network and explore the updated Launch SA space.
The event is free and open to the public, and registration is requested through Eventbrite.
EVENT DETAILS
WHAT: Launch SA Grand Re-Opening
WHEN: Tuesday, October 1, 2024, until 6 p.m.
WHERE: Launch SA, Central Library (600 Soledad St., 78205)
Agenda Highlights:
- 9:30 a.m. – Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
- 11 a.m. – Small Business Connecting to the Community Panel
- 12 noon – Restaurant/Retail Business Growth Workshop
- 1:30 p.m. – Introducing Launch SA Link: Building Bridges in our Small Business Ecosystem
- 2:30 p.m. – Access to Capital Panel
- 4 p.m. – Launch SA Community Open House
- 4:30 p.m. – Mayor Ron Nirenberg is scheduled to speak
For more information about Launch SA and its upcoming programs, visit Launch SA.