As the founder of The Bean Pat in Jackson, I’ve always believed that Mississippi has the potential to be a leader in technology and innovation. This belief was reinforced recently when we had the honor of hosting U.S. House Rep. Bennie Thompson of Mississippi at The Bean Path. This was the first time the congressman has visited The Bean Path and Tech District. His visit marked a significant milestone in our journey to bridge the digital divide and empower our community through technology.
During his tour, Thompson expressed his admiration for the strides we’ve made. “I’m very impressed,” he told us. “I know a lot about this area. I’ve represented it for quite a while, and I’ve seen the highs and the lows. Now we are back moving toward the top.” His words resonate deeply, affirming that our efforts are not only recognized but also pivotal in shaping the future of our region.
Our mission at The Bean Path is to ensure that as Jackson grows, our community isn’t left behind in the technological advancements that drive modern economies. We aim to provide access to resources, education and opportunities that enable individuals to thrive in a digital world.
One of the ways we foster innovation is through our recent pitch competition that we host in partnership with Innovate Mississippi, Succeed and Elevate, and the MS Small Business Development Center Network. We had more than 40 applications from innovators and business owners from Central Mississippi, ultimately selecting 10 remarkable entrepreneurs to showcase their businesses. These individuals presented groundbreaking ideas to a panel of judges, vying for a share of $15,000 in prizes…