Meet Kyle Patterson, a dedicated mentor whose journey with the Start:ME program reflects FCS’s belief that neighboring can be a powerful way to support and strengthen local entrepreneurs. As we look back on the energy and inspiration of last week’s Start:ME Pitch Presentations, Kyle’s story brings this mission to life – pairing experienced leaders with aspiring business owners to foster growth, guidance, and lasting community impact.
Kyle’s connection to FCS runs deep. Over the years, she has served as a volunteer, staff member, and collaborator alongside neighbors. Her relationship with the organization began well before her time on staff and has continued since. That long-standing involvement eventually led her to mentor Start:ME entrepreneurs – a role she has now embraced for a second year.
With 12 years of banking experience, Kyle brings valuable financial expertise to the Start:ME program. “All of the mentors have unique backgrounds. Some of them have run their own businesses,” she says. “I’ve never run my own business, but I do bring a finance background, so that’s where I contribute.” The Start:ME mentorship model pairs entrepreneurs with multiple mentors, ensuring that each participant benefits from a diverse range of skills and insights.
For Kyle, the Start:ME program is about more than business plans and spreadsheets. “I think it’s just a really unique program that provides entrepreneurs with support that would be hard to find all in one place,” she says. “Being an entrepreneur can be lonely. You may not have a network or people you work with every day, so providing support and having a group that understands is transformative.”
One of her favorite memories as a mentor was seeing her entrepreneur in action. “He’s launching an in-home karaoke business – he brings the karaoke setup to corporate events and private gatherings.” She continues, “He was hosting at a local restaurant, so I texted some friends, and we all went to see him do his thing. Just seeing it live and in his element gave me a whole new perspective on his business.”
The Pitch Presentations mark the final step before graduation, where entrepreneurs showcase their businesses, share their financials, and make their case for a Start:ME grant. But what makes the process unique is that entrepreneurs themselves vote on who receives funding. “In my view, it’s especially meaningful because they’re the ones who have been through the program together,” says Kyle. “They’ve built connections, witnessed each other’s growth, and shared the journey. It encourages them to network and build relationships that will continue beyond the program.”
Pitch Night isn’t just about funding. It’s a celebration to the months of hard work, learning, and community building. And for mentors like Kyle, it offers a rewarding moment of reflection.
With graduation just around the corner, the Start:ME entrepreneurs are stepping into their futures with new knowledge, strong networks, and the confidence to take their businesses to the next level.
As we celebrate another graduating cohort, we’re reminded that Start:ME isn’t just about launching businesses. It’s about empowering people, strengthening communities, and creating lasting impact. Congratulations to all of our entrepreneurs, and a huge thank you to our mentors who make this journey possible.
Since its launch, the southside START:Me cohort has helped create 77 businesses, employing 123 people and generating over $3 million in annual revenue. To learn more, visit https://www.startmeatl.org.
