Pickens Revitalization Challenge

 

Pickens Revitalization Association Announces 2020-21 Pickens Revitalization Challenge Semi-Finalists

 

Pickens, SC. The Pickens Revitalization Association is excited to announce the semi-finalists for the newly named Pickens Revitalization Challenge, an entrepreneurial start up competition for the purpose of generating additional retail occupancy in Pickens. Additionally, this challenge will provide a means by which local, area, and regional entrepreneurs can advance their desire to expand or open a new business.

 

The Pickens Revitalization Association will award a cash incentive up to $10,000 for start-up businesses or new concepts, which must then open a new location in Pickens by May 1, 2021. The money offered to the winner(s) will represent a potentially forgivable loan based on the recipient’s compliance with certain criteria. The loan will be forgiven only if the recipient maintains the business for at least one full year.  

 

“Once again, we are pleased to announce this year’s semi-finalists for the 2020-21 Pickens Revitalization Challenge: Appalachian Ale House, Main Street Pizza, Full Circle Vintage Modern Market, Serenity at Sunset and Q & Co. Studios.,” said Megan Thomas, President of the Pickens Revitalization Association. "We are thrilled to have the Pickens Revitalization Challenge underway! It has been inspiring to experience the passion these entrepreneurs have for their future plans in the City of Pickens! Not only are these business owners striving to grow their current businesses, they aspire to further the growth of our beautiful City. We want to encourage the Pickens Community to support the local businesses now more than ever! Stay tuned!"   

 

Appalachian Ale House is planning to renovate the outside area adjacent to their building to create a dining/hangout space. Main Street Pizza plans to add a covered outdoor dining area. Full Circle Vintage Modern Market will be expanding their workshop space to allow for more customer personal pieces and to include a paint party facility. Serenity at Sunset is looking to expand current services to offer wellness retreats and build a tea room that serves light vegan fare. Q & Co. Studios is planning bring in additional beauty services/retail and art supplies to promote local shopping.

 

Business concepts eligible for the competition included: new start-up businesses, franchises, an expansion or relocation of an existing location from another community, and a significant expansion of an existing local business that would branch into an additional business concept.

 

For more information on the 2020-21 Pickens Revitalization Challenge Guidelines, please visit www.historicpickens.com. The semi-finalists must submit their business plans to the selection committee for the next round of the Challenge. The finalists will be announced on January 8, 2021.

 

The Pickens Revitalization Challenge will follow a set timeline throughout 2020 and 2021, as laid out below:

»  September 1, 2020 - Application Available

»  October 2, 2020 - Round One Due: Application

» November 6, 2020 - Announce Semi-Finalists

» December 4, 2020 - Round Two Due: Business Plan

» January 8, 2021 - Announce Finalists

» January 21, 2021 - Finalists Pitch (pending date)

» February 4, 2021 - Winner(s) Announced

» May 1, 2021 - Business(es) Open