First Customer, a new initiative launched jointly by TechColumbus, the region’s technology-business incubator, and Columbus 2020, the region’s economic development engine, is giving IT and biomedical startup companies access to the types of resources, including brainpower and funding, that can mean the difference between success and failure.

The goal of the new program is to set Columbus apart as a one-of-a-kind environment for startup businesses. “The idea is to give a leg up to local companies who are doing great things, but need access to some of our larger institutions,” said Kenny McDonald, chief economic officer of Columbus 2020.

The program is designed to assist entrepreneurs in attracting both investors and other clients once they have secured their first customer. Check out the program to see if you qualify.