the CO

11/06/2025

Applications are now open for CO.STARTERS, a 9-week program designed for entrepreneurs ready to level up their business. If you’re looking to refine your strategy, strengthen operations, or gain clarity in your next stage of growth, this program offers the structure and support to make it happen.

You’ll learn practical tools to help you work on your business, not just in it, with hands-on sessions led by Lisa Garner, theCO’s CEO and owner of Garner Blue Shop.

Applications close January 20, and sessions begin February 3. Learn more and apply at attheco.com/costarters.

CO.STARTERS is a 9 week program that equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the insights, relationships and tools needed to turn their business ideas into action. Over the nine-week journey, you’ll gain real-world experience while building a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. You—if you have a ...

11/05/2025

The year’s almost over, but there’s still time to get the guidance your business needs to finish strong. Our free November Business Advising sessions connect West Tennessee business owners with local experts for 30-minute virtual meetings tailored to your specific questions and goals.

Upcoming Sessions:
Nov 10: Small Business Loan Advising – Jarlecia Jones, Pathway Lending
Nov 12: Digital Marketing Advising – Kevin Adelsberger, Adelsberger Marketing
Nov 13: Accounting Advising – William Welch, Steele Martin Jones & Company
Nov 19: AI-Driven Business Advising – Austin Thompson, Thompson Industries

This is your last chance to book free advising before January. Don’t miss out! Schedule here: attheco.com/business-advising

10/30/2025

The end of the year can be busy, but having a place to land makes all the difference. Our dedicated desks give you a consistent spot to work, store your things, and stay focused. You’ll also get the usual membership perks like conference room hours and access to the Media Room. If that sounds like what you need heading into the new year, visit attheco.com/comembership to get started.

10/29/2025

The Holidays are quickly approaching, so we asked 3 entrepreneurs: “What is your top tip was for business owners heading in to the holiday season?” Check out what Lakyn Bowman (), Lisa Garner (), and Tim Hayes () had to say!

10/22/2025

Want to learn more about micro-retail at theLOCAL? Don't forget about the interest meeting tomorrow at 5:30pm! RSVP here: luma.com/pa9mbv9m

Thinking about your next move as an entrepreneur? Join us for theLOCAL Interest Meeting on October 23 from 5:30-6:30 PM.

Current tenant Becca Creasy, past tenant Chase Walker, Downtown Director Beth Ann Simpson, and theCO’s CEO Lisa Garner will talk about theLOCAL experience, answer your questions, and explain the opportunities and impact of this unique micro-retail incubator.

RSVP: luma.com/pa9mbv9m

10/22/2025

Today on the blog, we're featuring a Starter Story about Two Sisters Bakery, which is now owned by Melanie and her sister, Abby, who run the oldest bakery in Jackson. When they took over the bakery, Melanie was stepping out of what she had known and done for 25 years, but she stepped into something that had been constant for over half a century.

“It took a minute for us to realize you don't wanna be the biggest, you just wanna be the best. At first we were so worried about growing again,” Melanie said. “Be consistent with what you have and keep going with that.”

They went through theCO's CO.STARTERS program and the ScaleUp Kitchen program this past year, and both helped these new business owners really learn and grow in their entrepreneur journey. Read the full blog below!

Written & photographed by Margee Stanfield

10/20/2025

As the holiday season is approaching, we have spaces for your meetings or events! Whether you're looking for a place for an intimate two-person meeting or an event space that can accommodate up to 100, we've got a few options.

The Roger conference room seats 10-12 and The Murray conference room seats up to 6 people. Our event space is a 2000 sq ft blank slate ready for your next gathering.

Our conference rooms and event space are available to rent Monday-Friday from 8am-5pm. And while you do not need to be a CO:member to rent our space, our members do enjoy 4 free hours monthly in our conference rooms.

Visit our website or give us a call to book a space! attheco.com/meeting-space

10/16/2025

We’re one week out from theLOCAL Interest Meeting on October 23 at 5:30 PM, and this year’s event will be held at The LOCAL. It’s a great chance to hear from entrepreneurs and community partners about what it’s really like to launch and grow through this downtown incubator.

At theCO, we work with Downtown Jackson TN to help small business owners test their concepts downtown with flexible, low-cost retail spaces. Through our CO.STARTERS program, we walk alongside entrepreneurs as they shape, test, and grow their ideas.

If you’re considering your next step as an entrepreneur, this is the perfect opportunity to discover what theLOCAL has to offer.

RSVP here: luma.com/pa9mbv9m

10/14/2025

Lisa is sharing three things she’d never do as a business owner, reminding us that smart growth takes clear direction.

Now’s the time to refocus and plan ahead for the new year. West TN business owners can schedule a free Business Brainstorming session at theCO to pinpoint where they are and their next step forward.

10/07/2025

Running a small business isn’t easy, and there’s always lessons you learn along the way! Listen to what a few of our entrepreneurs wish they knew earlier in their journey. If you are wanting help getting started with your small business, check out our free Business Advising or Business Brainstorming sessions!

10/02/2025

Looking for community, accountability, and real strategies to grow your business? Join Soul Collective for Make It Happen Monday at Jaxon Station on October 6. This Black business roundtable is where ideas turn into action!

RSVP here: luma.com/9faf0g8v

09/30/2025

Tomorrow starts a new month and that means it's time to book your Business Advising for October! Business Advising at theCO is a monthly lineup of free 30-minute sessions with local experts in key areas essential to your business. Bring your specific questions and get the help you need to take the next step.

Oct. 8: Digital Marketing Advising w/ Kevin Adelsberger Marketing

Oct 9: Accounting Advising w/ William Welch

Oct. 13: Small Business Loan Advising w/ Jarlecia Jones Pathway Lending

Oct 15: AI Driven Business Advising w/ Austin Thompson

Oct. 23: Social Media Advising w/ Blue Byrd Marketing

Oct. 24: Video Strategy Advising w/ Cameron Sunrise Media

You can book a session here: attheco.com/business-advising