Columbus Chamber Foundation launches 'Catalyst 100' to support small businesses

COLUMBUS, Ind. - The Columbus Area Chamber Foundation on Thursday announced the creation of the Catalyst 100 Fund, a new initiative designed to strengthen at least 100 small businesses across Bartholomew County over the next 500 days.

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

The Foundation was formed in 1976, and since that time, it has served as a launchpad for many community and economic development programs.

In the last six years, the Foundation has managed and invested over $3 million in initiatives that drive innovation and entrepreneurship. President of the Columbus Chamber, Cindy Frey, said, “Through our foundation, we work to make it easier for small businesses to succeed.”

At the 50th anniversary celebration, two new programs were introduced: the Catalyst 100 Fund and the PowerForward microloan program. The initiatives provide no-cost mentoring and professional services to eligible small businesses, helping them improve operations, sharpen financial systems, and position themselves for growth, lending, or investment.

Through the Catalyst 100 Fund, participating businesses will receive:

• One-on-one mentoring from experienced advisors through SCORE or the Indiana Small Business Development Center (ISBDC)

• Access to professional services at no cost, including accounting support, legal guidance, Marketing and branding assistance, and restaurant consulting

• Connections to a broader network of local resources and partners

To access technical services, participants complete at least two mentoring sessions and develop a customized growth plan—ensuring support is targeted and actionable. These services are valued at up to $1600.

Designed for Small, Growing Businesses, the program is focused on 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.

Catalyst 100 is powered by a network of local partners, professional service providers, and business mentors who share a common goal: helping small businesses thrive. Funders include Cummins CARE, the Heritage Fund of Bartholomew County, the Custer and Nugent Foundations, the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, First Financial Bank Foundation, Old National Bank, and Centra Credit Union.

This initiative will culminate in 100 businesses being served by September 2027. Small business owners can learn more and apply here.