Seed Money: A Community Investment In Emerging Entrepreneurs

By Ray Bassett

Published April 15, 2025 at 12:59 AM EDT

The sign to the entrance of The Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga.

(Aired Weds 4/09/25)

For first-time entrepreneurs, economic opportunity is key to unlocking economic mobility.

The Community Foundation of Greater Chattanooga is one nonprofit that funds opportunities for some of those entrepreneurs to aim for - and achieve - that mobility.

Montrell Besley owns and operates Chattanooga Rolling Video Games, a mobile video gaming theater for kids of all ages.

Gisela Bellina and Luis Contreras own The Local Juicery + Kitchen in Southside Chattanooga.

I spoke with them - and Quentin Lawrence, vice president of community investment at the Community Foundation.

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