NextGEN, where local minds can launch their businesses. | Will Crooks for the Upstate Business Journal
NEXT Upstate showed off a new name as it rebranded into NextGEN, but this shift isn’t just in the name.
NextGEN will now direct its efforts to supporting the Greenville Entrepreneur Network, a group of founders, entrepreneurs, and innovators in the Greenville area. Prior to its rebrand, NEXT Upstate began as an effort of the Greenville Chamber to elevate and support local business with a focal point on startups in the community. Since then, the growth has been exponential with the inclusion of founders, mentors + investors.
The organization hosts workshops, accelerator programs, and even partners with local colleges to reach young adults with an entrepreneurial spirit. They also host two signature events, The NEXT Venture Summit + #StartupGVL Launchpad, that help propel startups as they navigate the business ecosystem of Greenville.
All this work goes to support Greenville’s economy + it goes a step further by helping new local business feel at home in the area.
If you’d like to get involved, give NextGen some info about your business or idea.
Events
Monday, Feb. 12
Movie Night | Monday, Feb. 12 | 6 p.m. | Yee-Haw Brewing Co., 307 E. McBee Ave., Ste. C, Greenville | Free entry | Watch Taylor Swift’s “The Eras Tour” as you sip on a craft beer.
Valentine’s Dinner with Papi | Monday, Feb. 12 | 6:30-8:30 p.m. | Papi’s Tacos, 21 Augusta St., Ste. B, Greenville | $75-$140 | Enjoy a four-course dinner by Papi and specialty cocktails from Maria Tequila.
Tuesday, Feb. 13
Donut you want to be my Galentine?! | Tuesday, Feb. 13 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Sparkling Sisters, 111 E. Poinsett St., Greer | $10 | Grab your Galentines for mimosas and donut decorating.
Speed Dating | Tuesday, Feb. 13 | 7:30-10:30 p.m. | Coupe’s Corner, 111 Augusta St., Greenville | $10 | Get ready for a heart-pumping evening of fast-paced matchmaking at one of Downtown Greenville’s newest spots.
Wednesday, Feb. 14
Indie Craft Parade Valentine Pop Up Shop | Wednesday, Feb. 14 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Makers Collective, 2909 Old Buncombe Rd., Greenville | Free entry | If you’re a last-minute shopper, head to Makers Co. for a curated selection of local items to help you celebrate those you love.
Valentine’s Day Dinner for Two | Wednesday, Feb. 14 | 4-8 p.m. | Myles’ Pizza Pub, 555 S. Pleasantburg Dr., Greenville | $35 | Split a pizza, beer or wine, and heart-shaped cookies for two, no reservation needed.
Placement into the Health Sciences programs requires additional steps and academic minimums that will vary from program to program. | Photos provided by Greenville Technical College
Serving 1,000+ credit and non-credit students (including dual-enrolled high schoolers), Greenville Technical College’s School of Health Sciences is a bustling hub of learning and growth.
Students can choose from 21 programs, from Associate in Applied Science Degrees to Diplomas and Certificates in Applied Science — all tailor-made to equip students for the healthcare workforce and fill our community and regional need for top-notch healthcare pros.
The School of Health Sciences offers student simulated experiences through the Dr. Barbara P. Lassiter STAT Center Lab, and the departments of Dental Hygiene, Veterinary Assistance, and Diagnostic Medical Sonography provide student-operated clinics open to the general public.
Top fields include direct health care such as dental, nursing, and imaging — and indirect health care (read: not dealing directly with patients) like cancer data management and health information management.
Learn about the programs offered in Greenville Tech’s School of Health Sciences and the college enrollment process at the upcoming open house on Thursday, Feb. 22 from 3:30-6 p.m.
The city of Greenville is making plans to update the Haynie-Sirrine neighborhood + wants your input. A meeting will be held Tuesday, Feb. 20, 5-7 p.m. at the Preserve at Logan Park to address potential changes. (Greenville Journal)
Community
Upstate International opened applications for its board of directors. The organization’s aim is to foster diversity + engagement. Applications close on Friday, Mar. 15.
Asked
If you’ve got happy feet and a dance studio you call home + want others to know about, pointe us in the right direction.
Try This
Sun and Soil Plant Parlor just got a new DIY terrarium bar. Pop in, grab a vessel you love + add your decorations and plants.
Theatre
The Warehouse Theatre announced shows for its 51st season. The lineup features “Misery” from the Stephen King universe. You don’t have to wait to enjoy shows from the current season.
Edu
The 2024 U.S. News & World Report’s “Online Programs” rankings are in + Clemson, Anderson University and University of South Carolina made the list. (Greenville Journal)
Biz
Ready to take your business to another level this new year? Endeavor’s private office membership includes 24/7 access, fast and secure wifi, an onsite gym, conference rooms + so much more. Explore options and schedule a tour today.*
Cause
Spread the love this Heart Month by supporting children grappling with social, emotional, and behavioral challenges served by A Child’s Haven. You can work to stop the debilitating cycles of trauma that can impact a child for a lifetime by giving the sweetest gift.*
Finance
Discover a brighter financial future with Money Pickle, your gateway to personalized financial advice. Connect with vetted financial advisors, handpicked to provide fiduciary guidance that directly aligns with your goals for investments, retirement, and beyond. Schedule your complimentary video consultation.*
Cause
Did you know that one donation has the potential to save up to three lives? Share the love this February when you donate blood at your community blood center, The Blood Connection. Make an appointment online or find a donation center near you.*
Outdoors
Development
The Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail has a new connector in Legacy Park
With the cutting of the ribbon, the city of Greenville connects a 0.3 mile connector to the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail
The Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit trail has a new section that reaches out to the Verdae neighborhood. This project, about 10 years in the making, will merge the Green Line to Legacy Park by the lower pond. Even better, you get to travel across a little scenic bridge over Laurel Creek.
In an effort to protect trees and green space, the construction crews made sure to leave healthy trees standing. We love to see it.
The project is already making an impact as residents enjoy how commute-friendly and connected it has been making their lives.
If you’re wondering when the Swamp Rabbit Trail will make its way to you, it may not be too far off. Plans are underway for additional connectors along the Laurens Road corridor + construction is slated to begin as early as this summer.
Asked
What is your favorite stop along the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail?
Beats Studio Buds, because you deserve an earbud upgrade. The Beats buds use active noise canceling technology for an immersive sound experience. Bonus: They’re sweat and water resistant, aka your new best gym buddy.
My favorite way to start the week off is by giving myself a Monday morning pep talk in the mirror. Remember, you run the week, the week doesn’t run you.
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