Bridging Prosperity to the Neighborhood Economy

According to an August 2024 report from North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine F. Marshall, providing entrepreneurs with tools to build their reputation, demonstrate readiness, and access a searchable online resource hub would significantly enhance their success.

At Genesis Block, we see the “neighborhood economy” as a thriving network of small businesses, entrepreneurs, workers, and community-driven commerce that fuel local economic growth. From retail shops and service providers to independent contractors and local markets, it’s the heartbeat of a strong, connected community. The Neighborhood Economy powered by entrepreneurs and small business owners is responsible for 64% of new jobs in the United States and employs over a total of 61.9 million people.

So, how do we build stronger, smarter small businesses to anchor local economies and drive community prosperity.

Genesis Bridge

In an August 2024 report, North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine F. Marshall highlighted the importance of equipping entrepreneurs with the tools they need to build their reputations, demonstrate readiness, and gain access to a comprehensive online resource hub. To this end, Genesis Bridge emerges as a digital directory that connects entrepreneurs with the right resources, networks, and support at every stage of their journey. Designed as a small business platform, Genesis Bridge provides local entrepreneurs and business owners with essential guidance as they navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship and commercialization.

The Cape Fear Entrepreneurial & Innovation Benchmark Survey is gathering key insights to strengthen the small business community and provide a framework to examine the Neighborhood Economy by identifying resource needs, gaps in services, and regional opportunities to drive growth.

What is the objective of Genesis Bridge?

Genesis Bridge is working to create a modern business network for local entrepreneurs and business owners. The goal is to build a digital platform that connects entrepreneurs with the resources they need at every stage of their business journey. Looking ahead, Genesis Bridge envisions a smart platform that links local businesses to a community-driven digital economy. This system will help turn regional economic activities into a dynamic, real-time digital economy, providing valuable insights and key metrics to support growth and success.

What problem is Genesis Bridge addressing and providing a solution to support?

Genesis Bridge is addressing the challenge of connecting local entrepreneurs and business owners with the right resources, networks, and support at every stage of their business journey. Many small businesses struggle to find the tools and guidance they need to succeed and grow. Genesis Bridge provides a solution by offering a digital platform that matches entrepreneurs with essential resources tailored to their specific needs, helping them navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship and commercialization. The August 2024 report from the Secretary of State emphasizes that helping entrepreneurs build a strong reputation, demonstrate their readiness, and providing a searchable online directory where they can easily access resources in one place is a key step toward improving the success rates of aspiring entrepreneurs.

Chef’z Vision is a premier event in Wilmington that connects the food entrepreneur ecosystem to opportunities to grow their business, fuel connections and build their brand.

Who can join Genesis Bridge?

This initiative is for entrepreneurs, business owners, local visionaries, and community members who are passionate about fostering a vibrant local economy and strengthening community economic growth.

Where can I sign up?

Join for FREE here

What are the next steps for Genesis Bridge?

As we prepare for the beta testing phase of Genesis Bridge, the next steps for new users will focus on ensuring a smooth and valuable experience. Here’s how we can outline the process:

User Registration and Onboarding: New users will be invited to sign up and create their profiles on the Genesis Bridge platform. This will allow us to tailor the platform’s resources and connections to their specific business needs. During onboarding, users will only create their profile.

Beta Testing Feedback: Once onboarded, new users will have the opportunity to explore the platform and provide feedback. We are still developing the user interface and want our community of entrepreneurs to lead development efforts of the user experience.

Resource Access and Networking: Our plan is for users to gain access to a curated set of resources designed to support their business journey in the Summer 2025. They’ll be able to connect with relevant networks, events, and support systems that can help them grow and succeed. We are also doing pilot projects during the Spring to gain more insights from regional anchor organizations.

Continuous Improvement: Based on the feedback and data collected during the beta, we’ll make necessary adjustments to improve the platform’s functionality and ensure it best serves our community of entrepreneurs and business owners.

Meet the Neighborz is a quarterly dynamic gathering of local entrepreneurs, business owners, and community leaders. This meetup is designed to foster meaningful connections, share valuable insights, and spark collaboration.

For the latest developments at Genesis Block, follow us on these digital platforms.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552904945539

Twitter: https://twitter.com/block_ilm

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/genesis-block-ilm

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genesisblockilm

Medium: https://genesisblkilm.medium.com/

Greater Wilmington Business Journal: https://www.wilmingtonbiz.com/insights/girardnewkirk/237