The Pearland Economic Development Corp. is creating an Entrepreneurship Hub for Pearland with community partners. The Hub will provide resources for the small-business community of Pearland, including events, entrepreneurship assistance programs, service providers and funding sources, according to a PEDC press release.

The PEDC is accepting Request for Qualifications for an independent contractor to launch and manage the new program, according to the release. Proposals are due by July 16. The Hub will be facilitated by the PEDC with the goal of transitioning to a nonprofit corporation, according to the release.

“The Hub will assist in bringing new jobs and investment into the community that can in turn lead to increased sales and new customers for local-serving businesses,” said Reid Wendell, PEDC’s board of directors chair, in the release.

The PEDC board of directors, the Pearland Prosperity Implementation Committee and the chamber board of directors voted to move forward with the creation of the Entrepreneurship Hub in April. The initiative is the result of the Pearland Prosperity Community Strategic Plan, which calls for entrepreneurship and small-business assistance in Pearland, according to the release.

“The resources and activities offered by the Hub, such as proactive coaching and targeted events, will not only ensure that entrepreneurs and small businesses in Pearland connect with the necessary resources to grow and succeed, but will also help to establish Pearland as a community known for innovation and entrepreneurship and where emerging companies want to locate,” Pearland Mayor Kevin Cole said in the release.