City officials launched the program and appointed its committee members earlier this year in May.
What you need to know
At their Nov. 11 meeting, Celina City Council members received an update on the program committee’s work over the summer, which included setting specific parameters and goals.
The program is meant to be a “comprehensive toolbox of support services for Celina businesses,” according to city documents.
Additionally, the program’s committee is made up of members of the city’s economic development corporation, City Council, chamber of commerce, downtown commission and regional and workforce partners.
Committee participants highlighted needs such as strengthening workforce pipelines, establishing startup mentoring and improving city resource accessibility, according to city documents.
Zooming in
Anthony Satarino, director of the Celina Economic Development Corp., said the committee worked to create a structured and proactive framework for the program.
“By building pride in local commerce, we reinforce Celina’s small town identity while keeping dollars circulating in our community,” Satarino said. “These aren’t nameless, faceless corporations. They are neighbors, families and people who give Celina its character, warmth and spirit.”
Satarino said the program’s main focus areas will include:
- Business retention and local spending
- Workforce support and solutions
- Business startup and education
- Marketing and visibility
“Local businesses ... are the heart of our community,” Satarino said. “They are who people think about when they think about Celina ... Supporting these businesses isn’t just about economics—it’s about supporting the fabric of our community.”
