Project

The Economic Development Council (EDC) Team Jefferson is seeking a Rural Business Services Coordinator to support the implementation of deliverables under the grant. This role is integral to providing targeted support for Indigenous-owned and rural microenterprises in Jefferson County, particularly those located in remote areas along the West End. The individual selected will serve as a vital link between businesses and resources, empowering underserved communities and fostering sustainable economic resilience.

The Rural Business Services Coordinator will lead relationship-building efforts with rural and indigenous communities, deliver one-on-one business coaching, and facilitate workshops focused on branding, digital marketing, and customer engagement. Additionally, this individual will contribute to the development of a supplier database to enhance market access for microenterprises and participate in a county-wide marketing campaign culminating in a Makers Market. This program bridges communities and empowers local artisans and makers through skills training, technical assistance, and network-building. These services address critical gaps in access to resources, helping underserved businesses overcome geographic and economic barriers while fostering economic resilience.

This is a contract position supported by grant funding, designed to increase equitable access to resources for Indigenous and rural businesses while fostering a cohesive economic network across Jefferson County.

Background

The EDC Team Jefferson focuses on high-impact, place-based initiatives that improve economic well-being and quality of life in Jefferson County. With an emphasis on relational and regenerative practices, the EDC supports microenterprises through technical assistance, resource access, and network-building.

EDC Team Jefferson, as the designated Associate Development Organization (ADO) for Jefferson County, is committed to building equitable economic opportunities and fostering sustainability within local business networks. Through this effort, we aim to address systemic barriers faced by rural and Indigenous-owned businesses by enhancing access to technical assistance, market development, and network-building resources. The Rural Business Services Coordinator and Network Weaver will play a key role in implementing these objectives. 

Scope of Services1. Objective

The primary objective of this role is to provide culturally informed, targeted technical assistance and support to rural and Indigenous-owned businesses across Jefferson County. The Coordinator will help build networks, facilitate skill-building workshops, and connect microenterprises with market opportunities to foster economic resilience and sustainability.

2. Tasks to be Performed

2.1 Relationship Building and Outreach:

• Conduct field research and needs assessments to ensure resources and services are tailored to community needs.

• Build and maintain relationships with Indigenous and rural communities, ensuring culturally informed engagement.

• Facilitate connections between businesses and local/regional lenders to support access to financing.

• Serve as a liaison between businesses, local organizations, and EDC Team Jefferson.

2.2 Technical Assistance:

• Provide one-on-one coaching to address operational improvements, financial guidance, and marketing strategies.

• Assist businesses in cross-marketing efforts to strengthen local networks.

2.3 Workshop Delivery:

• Lead workshops on branding, digital marketing, and customer engagement to enhance business visibility and success.

• Incorporate practical skill-building activities tailored to the unique challenges of underserved microenterprises.

2.4 Resource Development:

• Collaborate on the development of a website showcasing West End microenterprises, including a searchable directory.

• Contribute seller information for the building of a supplier database connecting East End shops with West End artisans to foster business-to-business relationships and strengthen supply chain confidence.

2.5 Marketing Campaign and Event Coordination:

• Support the implementation of a targeted marketing campaign culminating in a county-wide Makers Market.

• Coordinate all aspects of the Makers Market Event.

2.6 Reporting

• Track project metrics, including workshop participation, one-on-one advising hours, businesses in supplier database, and businesses attending Makers Market. 

• Regular check-ins will be held between the Consultant and EDC to review deliverables and address any emerging challenges.

3. Grant Deliverables

• A populated supplier database connecting 20 West End artisans with shops and marketplaces on the East End.

• Delivery of 10, 2-3 hour workshops focusing on branding, marketing, and operational improvements, with a minimum of 6 attendees/session.

• Technical assistance, business advising, for a minimum of 35 businesses through one-on-one sessions.

• Development of a website showcasing 35+ West End businesses.

• Participation in and support for the planning and execution of the county-wide Makers Market.

4. Performance 

Compliance with the established timeline is critical to ensure that funds are obligated consistent with grant terms. The contractor will ensure all tasks are completed on schedule, maintaining high levels of communication and accountability. In addition, the ideal candidate will possess the following:

• Resident of Jefferson County, with a strong knowledge of Jefferson County communities, cultures, and business practices, with a focus on cultural competence.

• Demonstrated experience in business advising and community outreach within Indigenous or rural settings.

• Proficiency in financial tools and business development strategies, including branding, marketing, and supply chain optimization.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust and foster collaboration.

• Experience in facilitating workshops and providing one-on-one technical assistance.

• Knowledge of digital tools, including website development and social media platforms.

• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to diverse needs within rural communities.

5. Monitoring and Reporting

To ensure the Consultant is following established timelines, periodic check-ins will be held between the Consultant and EDC to review deliverables and address any emerging challenges.

Preliminary Timeline

• RFQ Issued: January 27, 2025

• Proposal Deadline: February 7, 2025

• Selection Announcement: February 15, 2025

• Contract Start Date: February 15, 2025

• Project Completion: June 1, 2025

Estimated Budget

• Compensation: $80-95/hour, approximately 195 hours over the grant period.

Submittal Requirements

Please send a brief cover letter, resume, and the following documentation (A, B, C) to admin@edcteamjefferson.org.

A. Approach 

1. Methodology: Describe the planned methodologies for carrying out the tasks outlined in the Scope of Services. Include specifics on how deliverables will be achieved.

2. Work Plan: Provide a sequential plan to accomplish the project, including key deliverables and their timelines.

3. Training Organization: Describe the training deliverable including outreach plan and outlines of workshop topics. 

B. Related Experience and References

Provide examples of recent, directly related experience (within the last four years). Include:

• Client name, address, project title, and/or company/organization 

• Description of the work performed

• Project dates and outcomes

• At least three examples with references

C. Statement of Experience

Provide narrative of your experience working with rural and Indigenous-owned businesses, facilitating workshops, and implementing community-focused initiatives. Highlight relevant technical expertise, such as digital marketing, database development, and network building.

Evaluation Criteria