You’ve heard the expression: “Give a person a fish, feed them for a day. Teach them to fish and feed them for a lifetime.”

The same can be said of business.

Starting a business on the Vineyard is a daunting task. Even once established, running it can be grueling. What if there was a place where vetted and committed entrepreneurs could meet and ask for help from seasoned professionals? Areas of assistance might include sourcing materials, financing, accounting, marketing, or any number of other areas. The audience would be composed of experienced business people. They may be a retired executive, serial entrepreneur, accountant, restauranteur, hotelier, or a marketing whiz. All have one thing in common. They have been through the trenches and are empathetic and passionate about supporting other Islanders’ adventures in business.

That would be a beautiful thing, right? Well, it is happening now.

Martha’s Vineyard Venture Mentors (MVVM) is the Vineyard’s first regularly scheduled series of structured mentoring meetings where two critical needs are being met. First, entrepreneurs can build the networks and skill sets that will help them form a foundation for their startup or existing business. Second, business people, with a lifetime of experience, can mentor easily and enjoyably.

This idea grew out of last year’s Blue Economy discussions — how to ensure that our Island has a healthy and vibrant economy. That event generated a packed room and led to an initial group of three to carry on with the creation of programs for entrepreneurs.

The first step was developing Perfect Pitch MV, a successful Shark Tank-like pitch contest. Held in February, the event showcased 14 entrepreneurs pitching to a three-judge panel. Thousands of dollars were offered in prize money. The turnout was tremendous, the ideas amazing. Even those that did not win still won. After the event, several were contacted directly by members of the audience and offered assistance

Since February, Perfect Pitch MV organizers have been working behind the scenes to develop MVVM as a way to support new, healthy business growth on the Vineyard.

The program is modeled after successful programs around the state. The goal is to bring Island entrepreneurs together with seasoned business people to grow great ideas into robust and vigorous businesses. This pollination and propagation will produce additional employment opportunities.

MVVM launched the first of six monthly mentoring meetings on Tuesday, May 23 at the Chamber of Commerce with 10 Island entrepreneurs. Again, we had a packed house. Each event starts with a friendly meet and greet.

The entrepreneurs, each of whom committed to attending and participating in all six mentoring sessions, have two minutes to make their pitch for areas of need. Once all the pitches have been made, small breakout sessions follow. There are at least two and sometimes three depending on the number of mentors. They pick and choose which entrepreneurs to sit with and offer advice.

For seasoned business people, this is a fun and relaxed way to give back to new and upcoming entrepreneurs. A place where their experience, insights and feedback is appreciated and put to good use, all while making a positive impact. Mentors are encouraged to come to as many meetings as they like, to dress comfortably and have fun.

Be a mentor and join this happening. Help grow the Island’s economy. You have what the entrepreneurs need and want. Help them navigate the waters and help them to fish.

Mentoring meetings are held at the Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce from 6 to 8 p.m. The remaining meeting dates, all on Tuesdays, are August 22, Sept. 19 and Oct. 24. There is no cost to attend and participate.

If you are a great person looking for a fun mentoring experience, please contact Nancy Gardella at the Chamber (508-693-0085 extension 16 or via email at nancy@mvy.com). Or, just show up on August 22 at 6 p.m. at the Chamber of Commerce in Vineyard Haven. Helping others will leave you feeling like you won the fishing derby or catching your first striper. Be part of the solution to future economic growth.

Daniel J. Seidman
Vineyard Haven