Watson heads up nonprofit to oversee incubators

Created on Saturday, 23 February 2013 Written by THE BELLEFONTAINE EXAMINER STAFF

A local businessman has created a nonprofit company to manage business incubators in Bellefontaine and Marysville.

Will Zell, owner of Providence Holdings, also has hired Candace Watson as executive director of Providence Community Initiative, which will manage the Bellefontaine Entrepreneurial Center and the Marysville Entrepreneurial Center.  

She has previously worked for chambers of commerce in both Union and Logan counties.

Chris Schmenk, director of the Ohio Development Services Agency, recently toured the Marysville center to discuss funding programs to assist for the incubators.

The MEC and BEC serve as a support system for entrepreneurs with big ideas and limited resources with the ultimate goal of adding jobs to the local economy.  

The centers provide space, resources and contacts for business start ups. PCI reports that incubated businesses boast an 87 percent survival rate.  

Currently, there are four spaces available at the Marysville location and five spaces available at the Bellefontaine location.

The centers will be funded through rental income, grants and sponsorships from local businesses.

To learn more about sponsorship or to lease a space, contact Ms. Watson at (937) 441-9932 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

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