In this episode of the Econ Dev Show, Dane Carlson talks with economic development veteran and consultant Marty Vanags about Circles of Seven, a peer-based mentoring program designed to strengthen post-startup small businesses who often fall through the cracks of traditional support systems.
Marty explains how C7 groups work, why small businesses learn best from each other, and how these circles create long-lasting bonds that improve BRE, build confidence, and ultimately make communities more attractive to prospects. He also touches on Next Wave Leadership, the importance of in-person connection, and why economic developers should spend more time nurturing the businesses they already have.
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10 Actionable Takeaways for Economic Developers
- Target the "liminal stage" -- businesses past the startup phase but not yet established need the most support and often have the fewest resources.
- Build peer-to-peer programs, not just classes -- small businesses learn better from each other than from lectures.
- Recruit strong facilitators, not "experts" -- a good mentor is a steady guide, not a guru.
- Create predictable monthly prompts (articles, videos, questions) to spark meaningful discussion.
- Require at least 30 minutes on the main topic so participants get what they came for.
- Train facilitators in group dynamics, not business theory -- their job is to manage conversation, not teach.
- Use C7-style programs as BRE tools -- they put you in front of businesses you rarely interact with.
- Remember cash flow and time are always the biggest pain points for small businesses.
- Encourage in-person interaction -- especially post-COVID, live meetings build deeper relationships and accountability.
- Measure success by longevity -- if your groups keep meeting years later, your ecosystem is working.
Special Guest: Martin Vanags.
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