Applegate Entrepreneur in Residence 2025
To support the region’s vibrant and resilient community of entrepreneurs, A Greater Applegate (AGA) and Jackson County Library Services (JCLS) are proud to announce the launch of the Applegate Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) program, beginning this September. This new initiative will connect local business owners with two highly experienced local mentors: pioneering organic farmer Don Tipping and creative business catalyst Colene R. Milligan.
EIR is designed to directly address the needs of businesses in the Applegate Valley, from aspiring entrepreneurs to established small business owners in the agriculture, artisan food, tourism, and arts sectors. It will provide targeted guidance on critical challenges identified by the community, including developing a steady year-round income, building wildfire resilience, and mastering social media and digital marketing skills. The initiative aligns with the Applegate Valley Vision’s goal to foster an “innovative, locally-based, rural economy and a dynamic art, music and theater scene”.
The program features two distinguished local leaders:
- Don Tipping, a renowned farmer and entrepreneur, is the founder of Seven Seeds Farm, one of the longest-running organic farms in the Rogue Valley, and Siskiyou Seeds, an organic seed company with a national reach. With over 26 years of experience, Don has taught dozens of on-farm workshops and mentored numerous interns who have gone on to their own successful careers in the agricultural sector. A recognized leader in sustainable agriculture, he has co-written and secured nearly $1.1 million in state and federal grants for agricultural cooperatives. Don will offer mentorship in farm business management, grant writing, and building climate-resilient operations.
- Colene R. Milligan, a professional artist and business consultant, is the founder of Sweet Colene Art and Painted Pathways PNW and was the Executive Director and Board President for The Hivve Art Hubb nonprofit arts collective. She is a proficient mentor with deep experience in marketing, social media applications, networking, and grant writing. Colene specializes in helping rural startups and creative entrepreneurs find their audience and build a thriving business. She will offer workshops and consultations on topics including digital marketing, turning a passion into a profession, and navigating the business side of being a creative.
The Applegate EIR program will offer a select number of applicants a full-scholarship ($1,500 value) for dedicated one-on-one mentoring for a select group of business owners who commit to the four-month program. It will also feature a series of public workshops open to all on common small business topics.