“Made in Bristol” Continues to Grow and Strengthen Bristol’s Economy

Posted on by Department of Housing and Community Development

Made in Bristol (MIB) continues to strengthen Bristol’s small-scale production and manufacturing businesses through increased brand awareness, creative collateral, training, and mini grants.

The Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol (BIB), and the City of Bristol leveraged a FY2022 Virginia Business District Resurgence Grant (VBDRG) from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) to create the MIB brand, and a $100,000 FY 2024 VBDRG supported its expansion.

Expansion activities included improvements to the MIB webpages and visit widget (products of the FY2022 VBDRG project), the creation of a full-page insert in the Chamber’s resource guide, and purchase of two digital kiosks. The kiosks have been placed in key locations and feature dynamic, up to date displays promoting MIB businesses and products. Collateral including MIB branded coffee mugs and stadium-approved clear bags were also purchased and are being distributed through the Move to Bristol program to introduce the MIB brand to new residents. Additionally, multiple events were hosted to promote MIB including the Chamber’s Annual Meeting and First Friday Business Briefing Breakfast, which both showcased MIB products.

A targeted six-week training program was provided to MIB businesses by BIB, with support from the Virginia Highlands Small Business Development. An artisan glass blower and stained-glass maker participated, alongside a milliner and tattoo supply company. Training included business planning, financial literacy, marketing strategies, customer service, and e-commerce solutions for small-scale production. Upon completion of the training program, businesses were eligible to participate in a pitch competition. Nine businesses were awarded grant funds to help them grow.

Round two of the Made in Bristol project supported 24 businesses and created three new businesses and eight new jobs. MIB has been instrumental in fostering a thriving, sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem for local small-scale producers, and Bristol looks forward to seeing more local makers and entrepreneurs thrive with continued brand awareness and growth.

Photo Credit: Bristol Chamber of Commerce & Believe in Bristol