Columbus Chamber continues to seek small business applications for 'Catalyst 100'

Courtesy-Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce

COLUMBUS, Ind. - The Columbus Area Chamber Foundation continues to offer "Catalyst 100," a new initiative designed to strengthen at least 100 small businesses across Bartholomew County in 500 days.

This program is the Foundation’s legacy gift as it celebrates 50 years of service to the community.

The initiative provides no-cost access to mentoring and professional services to help small businesses strengthen operations, develop growth strategies, improve financial clarity and systems, and increase readiness for a loan or investment.

Through the Catalyst 100 Fund, participating businesses will receive:   

  • One-on-one mentoring from experienced advisors
  • Free access to professional services, including accounting support, legal guidance, marketing/branding assistance, and restaurant consulting
  • Connections to a broader network of local resources and partners

Catalyst 100 is focused on small, growing businesses that are:   

  • Located in Bartholomew County
  • Established and operating for at least one year
  • Employing 10 or fewer people
  • Generating under $500,000 in annual revenue

Chamber membership is not required to participate, reinforcing the Foundation’s commitment to serving the broader small business community.

This initiative will serve 100 businesses by September 2027. Small business owners can apply here.

More from Latest News

  • City of Columbus begins renovations at Fire Stations 3 and 5

    COLUMBUS, Ind. - The City of Columbus has initiated comprehensive renovation and repair projects at fire stations 3 and 5 to rectify moisture issues, remediate mold, and modernize heating/air-conditioning systems. These efforts underscore the city's commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment for its firefighters.    

  • ColumBUS Transit updates bus loops starting Tuesday

    COLUMBUS, Ind. - ColumBUS Transit will be rolling out upgrades to the bus loop system beginning this Tuesday, August 18. To better serve the community, riders will see enhancements to the Blue, Green, and Red-Taylorsville loops.    

  • BizBash is first Wednesday in September

    FRANKLIN, Ind. - The ultimate networking event of the year, the 2026 BizBash Business and Community Expo presented by the Franklin Chamber of Commerce, is set for Wednesday, September 2, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Garment Factory Events.

  • UPDATE: Bartholomew County assesses storm damage on north side of Columbus

    COLUMBUS, Ind. -Bartholomew County Emergency Management (BCEM) received reports of storm damage in the north Columbus area following thunderstorms on Friday night, August 14.

  • Gov. Braun declares statewide disaster emergency

    STATE OF INDIANA - Governor Mike Braun has declared a statewide disaster emergency due to the flooding, severe weather, and tornadic activity that have impacted the state since August 11.