At Innovate Mississippi, we’re all about building teams and engaging communities to fuel entrepreneurial success. Our CoBuilders program is a testament to this belief, and it wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our eight regional partners. These organizations have supported innovation, provided invaluable resources, and nurtured entrepreneurs statewide. Today, we celebrate and thank each of them for their unwavering commitment and contributions.
Oxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation (EDF)
The EDF aims to boost economic activity in the region by creating a vibrant business environment where companies can thrive. Partnering closely with the University of Mississippi, EDF supports technology transfer businesses and collaborates with other North Mississippi partners to help local companies grow.
Higher Purpose Co
Higher Purpose Co has dedicated itself to building community wealth among Black residents in Mississippi by promoting financial, cultural, and political ownership. As a valued partner in the CoBuilders Accelerator, they support Black-owned businesses across the state. Their membership program offers services and support to entrepreneurs, farmers, and artists in various sectors, such as beauty, food/agriculture, education, healthcare, housing, transportation, and art.
MSU Center for Entrepreneurship & Outreach
The MSU Center for Entrepreneurship and Outreach empowers students and Mississippi residents to launch and grow successful companies based on new ideas or MSU-invented technology. Their applied learning approach, involving alums and friends as mentors, coaches, and investors, strengthens the pipeline of entrepreneurs from K-12 to college graduates.
Community Development Foundation (CDF)
CDF has been advancing the community through partnerships and growth initiatives for over 75 years. Serving as the Chamber of Commerce and the economic development organization for Tupelo/Lee County, their business incubator, the Renasant Center for IDEAs, helps form and develop successful small businesses, creating jobs and fostering economic growth.
The Bean Path
Founded by Dr. Nashlie Sephus, The Bean Path is a nonprofit organization that assists companies in Jackson and surrounding areas. Supported by the Women’s Business Center at Jackson State University, it offers one-on-one counseling, low-cost training, networking, and mentoring to women entrepreneurs on various business development topics.
MSU E-Center Vicksburg
Located in downtown Vicksburg’s MCITy Building, the MSU Entrepreneurship Center in Vicksburg develops regional entrepreneurial ventures, leveraging technology partners and connections from ERDC and ERDCWerx. It also brings the resources and experience of MSU’s E-Center to assist regional companies.
The Mississippi Polymer Institute (MPI)
MPI promotes business growth in advanced materials markets. As part of the University of Southern Mississippi’s Innovation and Commercialization Park, MPI provides resources relevant to businesses at all stages. Their partnership with the CoBuilders Accelerator and the NIST Manufacturing Extension Partnership helps early-stage companies focused on material-based products.
The Meeting Place
The Meeting Place aims to boost economic development on the Mississippi Gulf Coast by providing a dynamic business environment. Through solid relationships with local business organizations, they function as a business incubator, offering startups and experienced businesses a solid foundation for success.
Thank You to Our Partners!
Together, these eight regional partners form the backbone of the CoBuilders program, providing essential support and resources to entrepreneurs across Mississippi. Their dedication and hard work have helped co-create a thriving ecosystem where innovation can grow and expand. We extend our heartfelt thanks to these organizations for their unwavering support and partnership.
As we look forward to the future, we are excited to continue working together to foster entrepreneurial growth and drive economic development throughout Mississippi. Here’s to many more years of innovation, collaboration, and success!
