What We've Been Building This Summer
- Macon Black Tech
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
The MBEEP Update Summer 2026
Updates from the Macon-Bibb Entrepreneur Ecosystem Project
Hello Macon Black Tech Readers,
We wanted to update you on some of the work we have been doing through our nonprofit MBT Collective.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
What is MBEEP?
The Macon-Bibb Entrepreneur Ecosystem Project is a three-part initiative to support the infrastructure Macon-Bibb’s entrepreneurs need— a platform that connects them to the right resources, an alliance of organizations that coordinates around shared data, and a national event that positions Macon as a model for inclusive economic development.
The Platform
An AI-powered triage tool that meets entrepreneurs where they are by asking the right questions about stage, industry, and ZIP code and routing them to the right organization at the right time.
Not a directory. A warm handoff. Every interaction feeds structured data back to the Alliance, creating a real-time picture of what entrepreneurs actually need.
The Alliance
A coalition of 25+ entrepreneurship support organizations across Macon-Bibb that coordinates around shared data centered on local entrepreneurs’ needs and voices.
Alliance members make referrals, attend quarterly convenings, and collectively ensure entrepreneurs find the right support regardless of which door they walk through first.
The Event
Built Here: Roots & Routes is a national convening planned for Spring 2027 in Macon.
It will bring together entrepreneurs, support organizations, investors, and civic leaders to tell the story of inclusive economic development, attract new investment, and position Macon as a model for mid-sized cities.
MBEEP is built for every entrepreneur in Macon-Bibb, no matter your industry, your stage, or your zip code. Whether you're still shaping an idea or ready to bid on your next contract, this initiative aims to understand your journey while supporting you in finding your way in the ecosystem.
Who is Building This?
MBEEP is being built the way it should be, together. Entrepreneurs sit at the center, with an Advisory Committee, a Working Committee, and 25+ Alliance members all contributing their piece to the work. No single organization can build this alone, and that's the point: everyone at the table brings something the ecosystem needs.
ALLIANCE CONVENING RECAP | July 16
The Macon-Bibb Innovation Alliance is a coalition of more than 25 organizations working together to make entrepreneurship in Macon-Bibb more connected, accessible, and data-driven. Through a shared platform and referral system, the Alliance helps entrepreneurs find the right support while enabling organizations to collaborate more effectively, share insights, and strengthen the local innovation ecosystem.
Purpose of the Convening
The convening was designed to:
Strengthen relationships among entrepreneurship support organizations.
Identify opportunities for greater collaboration and resource sharing.
Improve referrals across organizations so entrepreneurs can access the right resources more efficiently.
Share updates on the Macon-Bibb Entrepreneur Ecosystem Project and its three-part initiative.
Ensure the project reflects the real needs, experiences, and voices of local entrepreneurs.
Build a shared commitment to creating a more connected and effective entrepreneurial ecosystem.
What Was Discussed
Attendees engaged in conversations about:
Enhancing communication and coordination between organizations.
Using shared resources to better understand entrepreneurs' needs and identify service gaps.
Improving the entrepreneur experience through a connected referral network.
Supporting the development of the AI-powered Entrepreneur Platform.
This was done through a simulation exercise highlighting entrepreneurs in different zipcodes in Macon-Bibb
Why It Matters
By working together, the Alliance is creating an ecosystem where entrepreneurs can:
Access the right resources at the right time.
Experience a seamless journey, regardless of where they first seek support.
Benefit from stronger collaboration among local organizations.
Gain greater access to opportunities that help them start, grow, and sustain their businesses.
The July 16 convening marked another important step toward building a more collaborative and entrepreneur-centered ecosystem that supports innovation and small business success throughout Macon-Bibb County.
Takeaway
As the Macon-Bibb Entrepreneur Ecosystem Project continues to grow, the Innovation Alliance will remain a driving force in connecting organizations, strengthening partnerships, and expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs throughout the community.
SPOTLIGHT
Welcoming the Community Innovation Fellows
Built Here: Roots & Routes
MBT Collective is proud to introduce the Community Innovation Fellow Program, an initiative that empowers local leaders to help strengthen and grow Macon-Bibb's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Community Innovation Fellows serve as a vital connection between entrepreneurs, community partners, and the broader Entrepreneur Ecosystem Project. They help ensure that the needs, experiences, and voices of local entrepreneurs remain at the center of the initiative.
Community Innovation Fellows
Through community engagement and relationship building, the Fellows:
Connect with entrepreneurs across Macon-Bibb.
Gather insights and feedback to inform the project's development.
Support the growth of the Entrepreneur Platform.
Strengthen collaboration within the Innovation Alliance.
Help shape the Built Here: Roots & Routes national convening.
By serving as the bridge between community members and project partners, the Fellows play an important role in building a more connected, inclusive, and entrepreneur-centered ecosystem.
Get Involved
This project only works if the community builds it with us. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking for your next connection or an organization ready to be part of the Alliance, there's a place for you in this work.
Path 1: Entrepreneurs
If you are an entrepreneur, fill out our interest form so you can learn more about this initiative.
Path 2: Support organizations
If you are an entrepreneur support organization that is interested in this initiative, fill out the interest form.
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