On Friday, August 22, Allie Quinn Consulting was honored to participate in the BRIDGE Open House, hosted in partnership with Planters Bank and Delta State University’s Center for Community & Economic Development. The event highlighted the mission and progress of the BRIDGE program—Building Rural Innovation and Development for Growing Entrepreneurs—which serves as a catalyst for entrepreneurship and economic growth across the Mississippi Delta.
Attendees had the opportunity to learn more about the BRIDGE Incubator program, designed to provide business owners with affordable office space, mentorship, and access to critical resources. At present, three entrepreneurs will be selected to occupy incubator spaces in Drew, Mississippi, with a possible additional space opening soon. Final selections will be announced by September 1, 2025. This is an initiative in partnership with Sunflower County District 5 Supervisor Gloria Dickerson.
Distinguished guests and community leaders were present, including:
• Gene Finley, BRIDGE Director
• Leslie B. Cartlidge, MS, MBA, Business Developer, BRIDGE Program
• Dr. Joseph Childs, Dean, College of Business & Aviation
• Dr. Glendsence Williams, Chair & Professor of Finance
• Jessica Simmons, Economic Development Specialist II
• Keshawn Jennings, Representative, Planters Bank
• Gloria Dickerson, Sunflower County Supervisor, District 5
• Alshunda Quinn, Owner & Founder, Allie Quinn Consulting, Drew, MS
Several BRIDGE members, DSU faculty representatives, local community partners, and incubator prospects were also in attendance, underscoring the broad community support for advancing entrepreneurship in the Delta.
“As a Sunflower County resident and small business owner, I was grateful for the opportunity to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, community leaders, and program developers who are passionate about creating pathways for growth in our region,” said Alshunda Quinn, owner and founder of Allie Quinn Consulting. “The BRIDGE program is not just an incubator—it is an investment in people, ideas, and the future of our communities.”
The BRIDGE program, in collaboration with Planters Bank and the APEX Accelerator, continues to strengthen resources for rural entrepreneurs by offering training, networking opportunities, and professional development to support long-term business success.
