“Our research shows that building a strong, resilient and robust ecosystem to support entrepreneurs and innovators is the new emerging approach for economic development in the 21st century, and it’s clear to me that BGEN is leading the way in figuring out how we do this effectively in smaller rural communities. BGEN programs have supported an impressive mix of entrepreneurs, connecting them to resources across the region to accelerate their development – creating jobs, economic growth and new businesses for Gaffney and the Upstate region.” – Andy Stoll, Senior Program Officer, Ecosystem Development, Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation.
“Brian’s conversation with our students helped explain how entrepreneurship is a real possibility and how it can positively impact our community. By seeing how BGEN supports real businesses through mentorship, collaboration, and creative problem-solving, our students received a tangible model they can apply directly towards their work in Corinth Elementary’s SchoolHouse Coffee & Market. His passion and BGEN’s mission inspired them to think creatively, take ownership, and envision meaningful futures as young entrepreneurs. It’s an amazing program and valuable resource for our community.”
Eric Smalley – Corinth Elementary teacher and SchoolHouse Coffee and Market Advisor.
What is BGEN?
BGEN Business Generator is where ideas meet community.
Born in 2016 in the small-town, rural community of Cherokee County, SC. BGEN was built on the belief that great ideas, talented people, and entrepreneurial energy aren’t limited to big cities.
For more than a decade, BGEN has brought entrepreneurs, small business owners, creatives, community leaders, and people with big ideas together to connect, collaborate, and help one another move forward.
We believe some of the best solutions come from simply getting the right people in the same room, especially in rural communities where relationships, resourcefulness, and collaboration can make all the difference.
Whether you’re starting something new, growing an existing business, working through a challenge, or just looking for your next connection, BGEN is a place to ask questions, share ideas, find resources, and build relationships that matter.
It’s not a traditional networking group.
It’s not a classroom.
And it’s definitely not about handing out business cards.
BGEN is about generating ideas, opportunities, connections, and momentum. It’s about putting like minded people together and supporting one another. Simply, it’s about bringing AWESOME together.
THE BREW AT BGEN – BUSINESS IDEAS WITH COMMUNITY FEEDBACK
The Brew at BGEN happens monthly but is currently on hiatus until late 2026. This event is free and open to the public.
The plan is simple, one or two entrepreneurs will present their businesses to an audience consisting of YOU, mentors, advisers, business executives, and other entrepreneurs. Each entrepreneur will present for six minutes, followed by a 20-minute question-and-answer session with the audience.
The program offers an opportunity to explain any hardships or challenges you’re trying to work through. Think of it as Shark Tank, but instead of trying to find funding, you are trying to find solutions. Not getting enough foot traffic? Not sure how to market your small business effectively? Needing advice on accounting or legal issues? This is the place to engage with a community that wants to engage and assist. It’s a vibe. Come and enjoy yourself while helping out at the same time.
Networking
- Coaching/mentoring
- Access to outside network of mentors
- Links to strategic partners
- Collaborate with fellow entrepreneurs
Business Services
- Assist with business idea analysis
- Business model/plan
- Technology training
- Marketing assistance
Education
- Business training programs
- Links to higher education and resources
- Group training
- Workshops
- E-Learning
- Presentations
Finance
- Accounting training/services
- Financial management training
- Access to commercial loan vendors
- Assistance with grant availability
Brand Development
- In-house assistance with graphic design
- In-house search engine optimization training
- In-house web design assistance and training
- In-house professional photography and video services
- In-house social media strategist
The BREW@BGEN Season Three Kicks Off Sept 10
The BREW@BGEN SEASON THREE EPISODE ONE kicks off this Tuesday Sept 10 with our special guest speaker, Lucas Duarte from New York Life, will share his expertise on investing for small businesses, helping you make smart financial decisions as your business grows....
BGEN is for students too!
Collaboration, Inspiration, and Coffee. Those are three things that make BGEN different from your typical office or workspace. Coworking spaces are helpful for entrepreneurs, remote workers, and small businesses, but students are benefiting as well. Who? That's...
Why BGEN as a place to work or start a business?
BGEN is a membership-based space where freelancers, entrepreneurs, and other independent professionals work together. In 2015, researchers discovered that people who belong to one of these styles of coworking memberships report higher levels of professional thriving....