42 S G M A G A Z I N E | S P R I N G 2 0 1 8 INNOVATIONS Young Entrepreneur Turns Dream Into Reality Jessica Sharp, age 28, recently joined a growing number of fellow millennials when she opened her own business. According to a recent report by America’s Small Business Development Center, millennials represent one of the most entrepreneurial generations in U.S. history. getting started,” she said, “but you have to keep pushing forward.” With the ups and downs of starting a new business, Sharp was excited to receive a financial boost when she won the 2018 Southwest Georgia Bank Business Plan Competition. As this year’s winner, Sharp won $10,000, along with more than $20,000 of in-kind services. “Winning the business plan competition is such an honor,” Sharp said. “The money will help me grow the business and provide a greater impact on our community’s economy.” Sharp, who opened Ink & Cotton in October 2017, said the business is more than customized promotional items. “We take a consultative approach to help our Located in Valdosta, Ink & Cotton provides screen printing, embroidery, and customized promotional items. Sharp is confident in her leap of faith, even though she admits there have been some challenging times. “It sometimes feels like one step forward and two steps back when you’re first