Grayson DDA Business Incubator Up and Running

The Grayson Downtown Development Authority formed several years ago and last week saw a culmination of its efforts to assist the business community.

“Today represents but one of the fruits of may forthcoming efforts by the Grayson DDA, our mayor and council and our directors,” said Jimmy Norton, chairman of the Grayson DDA at the grand opening of its latest venture – the small business incubator at 438 Grayson Parkway. “This business incubator will nurture and develop entrepeneurs, home based operations, other fledgling entities with the express intent of launching them successfully into our community and beyond.”

Norton went on to welcome Jonathan Woffard of Freskos Media as an “inaugural co-worker” and Jim Nash as an on-site advisor. The incubator is headed by up Gail Lane, Grayson’s Downtown Director.

The City of Grayson initially purchased the building at 438 Grayson Parkway and the DDA then went about finding a way to launch the incubator venture. Lane said that the incubator was created to assist in small business development by offering resources and services.

“The DDA has begun taking applications as it builds a network and advisory council with the goal of producing more viable businesses to create jobs and strengthen Grayson’s economy,” Lane said. “In working with Grayson’s business community, the DDA also found a need for a membership-based co-working experience for local entrepreneurs who require professional office space on a part-time basis to meet and work with clients. We’re providing an infrastructure and environment for burgeoning companies to grow into larger enterprises.”

The community was given a first look at the facility at the ribbon cutting on June 27 and then later that evening at its first business networking event.

Norton filled in some of the history behind Grayson for those who were in attendance.

“Over a century ago, about right where we stand, was the old L & L rail line,” he said. “It conveyed commerce to and from Grayson and beyond. In its place over a century later stands a facility that will convey commerce to our community, and beyond. Grayson has always been on the right track. As we leap ahead adding features to an already attractive city, Grayson is a secret no more.”

The 438 Building is located across Hwy. 84 from Grayson’s City Hall.