New nonprofit economic development group to host first meeting

Traction Steam, a nonprofit focused on economic development through entrepreneurship in Mt. Pleasant, will host its first monthly meeting.

The meeting will be held at the Grange Public House & Brewery at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 17.

These gatherings will be aimed at building the small business community while supporting business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.

The hope is to create an environment where the business community can support and encourage each other.

While Traction Steam’s aim is solely on the Mt. Pleasant area, they understand that the “entrepreneurial ecosystem” will require ties to other like-minded business owners around the area.

During the first meeting, The Grange owners, Sue and Eric Sorenson, will share their story.

They will give participants a look into their process of taking a business from an idea to becoming a realization, along with their experiences as new business owners in Henry County.

The gathering is also meant to allow participants to mix and mingle with one another. Traction Steam will provide additional information for those who attend.

Ultimately, Traction Steam aims to create a local environment that cultivates small business creation and growth.

Anyone interested in becoming an entrepreneur or small business owner is encouraged to attend no matter the experience level.

Traction Steam was created in the summer of 2021 by a group of area professionals. They are determined to make Mt. Pleasant a better place to live by bringing new businesses to the area and helping those already in the region achieve their goals.

Comments: hunter.moeller@southeastiowaunion.com