Cobb County, Ga. (June 25, 2019) – The Cobb County Board of Commissioners approved a grant dispersion to three Cobb County businesses at the Board of Commissioners meeting on Tuesday Night. VNDE Blockchain, Clutch Creations, and Brilliant Coworking were each awarded funds from the Cobb County Economic Development Division’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Incentive Program.

“I’m really excited for this,” says Kristi Frank, CEO and Founder of Clutch Creations Inc.
“I grew up here and I want to help other entrepreneurs and be more involved in the County. This is a wonderful opportunity for myself, all women entrepreneurs, and others who want to pursue their dreams.” Kristi plans on using the funds for team expansion, philanthropic opportunities, and marketing.

Brilliant Co. was awarded funds toward advertising, marketing, and updating current amenities.

 “This award is an exciting opportunity for us because Cobb County decided to support us, and stand beside us, so we can turn around and do the same for the business community,” said Joseph and Michelle Gibson, co-owners of Brilliant Co.

VNDE Blockchain is an innovative, student-focused marketplace for financing higher education. Kyle Cornelius, CEO and Founder of VNDE, appreciates Cobb County Economic Development’s “stamp of approval.” He believes this support from the County helps start-up companies establish credibility in the business community.

Each applicant submitted a completed incentive application including an extensive business plan, budget, and financial allocation analysis. Applicants must also be graduates from an Entrepreneurship training program. A grant subcommittee evaluates all applications and makes grant recommendations. This subcommittee is comprised of stakeholders from Kennesaw State University Office of Community Engagement, SelectCobb, Cobb Travel and Tourism, Cobb Young Professionals, and The Coalition of Cobb County Business Associations.

The Entrepreneurship and Innovation Incentive Program was approved by the Board of Commissioners in February of 2018. This Program is funded by the Development Authority of Cobb County (DACC), created by the State of Georgia for the purpose of development and promoting the public good and general welfare trade, commerce, industry, and employment opportunities for Cobb. This authority is led by a board of volunteers and is solely funded by service and loan fees related primarily to loan/bond programs administered by DACC.

Applications for the next round of grant recipients are currently being accepted until August, 31, 2019. Deadlines are set on a quarterly basis. For more information about the Cobb County Entrepreneurship and Innovation Incentive Program, visit www.cobbcounty.org/economic-development/incentives or email the Economic Development Team at econdev@cobbcounty.org.