New Business Incubator Opens In Milton

MILTON, GA -- Five metro Atlanta CEO's, in partnership with the city of Milton, are collaborating to launch a business incubator in Milton.

The Engine is Milton's unique take on an incubator. With a focus on B2B SaaS technologies, The Engine is going to be north Atlanta's premier destination connecting entrepreneurs with seasoned mentors and access to capital, the city said Monday.

The Engine's founding members include David Lightburn, president/co-founder of Atlanta Tech Village and Village Realty founder; Jake Sherill, founder and chairman of Tier4Advisors; E.W. Looney, CEO of BrightLink Technology; David Hartin, co-founder, president and CEO of Notora, LLC; and Mark Baule, Selling Insights principal and cause local founder.

"Each of the founding members brings to the table a unique skill set with incredible experience, knowledge, and most importantly the passion necessary to nurture and grow entrepreneurs," said Milton's Economic Development Manager Sarah LaDart.

The Engine's purpose is to create the ideal atmosphere where Milton entrepreneurs can thrive, engage local residents and entrepreneurs as mentors, and connect Milton venture capital to Milton entrepreneurs.

The founding members, along with the city, are forming the team that will drive and support The Engine-entrepreneurs, advisory board members and mentors. More than 4,800 square feet of space has been secured in the Deerfield district in partnership with the Banyan Group.

"All that's missing are the ideas and talent to fill the space," Sherill added.

The Engine is looking for technology entrepreneurs in the seed and development or startup phase that are ready to take the next step. Interested entrepreneurs need to be open to mentorship and setting goals, and in exchange The Engine will provide access to mentors, and when the time is right, capital.

Running an incubator requires significant investment-time, talent and financial risk. Milton residents interested in participating as an advisory board member will have the opportunity to be a part of the selection process, offer hands-on mentoring, and participate financially in supporting incubator goals. In addition to advisory board opportunities, The Engine is seeking mentors, Milton residents with startup experience and/or an interest in venture capital opportunities, as well as business, legal, accounting or leadership knowledge-individuals who have the time and desire to help others grow.

For more information on The Engine and how you can participate, please send your information to TheEngineMilton@gmail.com by noon on Friday, May 26.

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