Officials say a new marketing and branding initiative for small businesses in Howard County is now on its way.
The program is called Level Up Business Branding, according to a Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance media release, which is a 12-month initiative “designed to empower growing local businesses with the professional marketing tools and mentorship they need to scale responsibly and sustainably.”
The money for the program comes via a $40,000 grant awarded to the Alliance through the Indiana Economic Development Corporation’s Community Collaboration Fund (CCF).
Through the Level Up Business Branding program, local officials say selected businesses will receive “tailored branding support,” which includes business introduction videos, product photography and brand strategy consultations.
“Many small businesses have the potential to grow but are held back by a lack of access to affordable high-quality marking,” Lori Dukes, president of the Alliance said in the release. “Through Level Up, we’re helping business owners close that gap and connect with the audiences who need what they offer — while creating a community that supports one another’s success.”
As part of the new initiative, the Alliance is also welcoming Vision Studio, a creative firm that has joined the Inventrek Tech Park ecosystem as a strategic satellite partner.
Officials note Vision Studio will “work alongside entrepreneurs to provide creative services and consultations as needed.” So how does the Level Up Business Branding program work?
Each month — beginning this month and continuing through June 2026 — one to two businesses will be selected by a “review committee” to participate in the program.
Participants will then meet with the Alliance, Vision Studio and other support partners to “identify their needs” and select from a “menu of marketing services” designed to “strengthen their brand and grow their reach.”
To be considered for the Level Up Business Branding program, businesses must be based in Howard County and have fewer than 100 employees, while also being operational or very near a launch date.
Officials say they should also demonstrate “market potential and a readiness to grow,” but still lack internal marketing staff or resources.
Participating businesses must also be involved in local entrepreneurial programming or be willing to be engaged, and they can either self-nominate themselves or be nominated by community members.
“When we help business owners define their brand, amplify their story and connect with the right people, it creates a ripple effect,” Ahmad McKinnie, founder and CEO of Vision Studio, said in the release. “Thriving small businesses create jobs, strengthen our economy and inspire others to act on their potential.”
A kick off and information event will be held from 3-4 p.m. Tuesday, July 22, inside the Inventrek auditorium, 700 E. Firmin St., Kokomo.