I am absolutely thrilled to announce that Dana Watkins has joined the BIC team as our Program Manager! In this position, she will lead programs including Startup Sprint, ColaStarts, and several exciting programs for our alumni that are currently in development. If you haven't had the chance to meet Dana yet, you can count on an inspiring conversation every time.
With her experience as both an educator and a founder, Dana brings invaluable insights to her position and to the BIC team. Her founder mindset is a tremendous asset for our program participants, as she understands firsthand the challenges faced by early-stage entrepreneurs who are balancing side projects with full-time jobs. Dana's personal journey as a founder allows her to connect authentically with new founders who are navigating similar paths, encouraging them to adopt a growth mindset while providing essential coaching on what is most important during the earliest stages of their startup journey.
Our programs serve as crucial stepping stones for founders to validate their ideas and successfully launch their startups in Columbia, SC. Dana embodies the spirit of a founder, and I have no doubt that she will continue to make a significant impact on our community!
Stay tuned for insights, inspiration, and practical tips from our incredible #GrowCola startup community! - Caroline Crowder
What is your story?
I started my professional journey as a computer science major, thinking I’d become a programmer. But as much as I loved the problem-solving aspect, I realized programming wasn’t my true calling. I’d always wanted to teach, so during my junior year, I switched majors and earned a degree in math with a focus on secondary education.
I went on to teach high school math for seven years and even taught at a community college. However, after moving to Columbia five years ago, I hit a wall. I felt burned out from teaching and decided it was time to explore something new. I applied to various jobs and eventually landed at a family-owned print and mail shop that also offered design & website services. Initially, I was hired as an account manager, but the role quickly expanded to include website support, project management, and administrative tasks.
This experience opened my eyes to the business world and allowed me to build transferable skills. Alongside my husband, I’d always dreamed of starting a business, so we explored different ventures until we found the right fit. Last year, we launched Snaply Sites, a subscription-based service designed for small businesses in need of professional, affordable websites. As website designers for small business, we saw the need for quality websites without the hefty price tag. The idea was to create affordable website solutions for businesses that couldn’t invest tens of thousands upfront, making it easier for them to establish a strong online presence. So when the Program Manager position opened up at the Boyd Innovation Center, I saw an opportunity to bring my entrepreneurial insights as a founder together with my background in education—helping to guide and support new founders as they navigate the challenges of launching their startups.
What is your biggest win as of late?
My biggest win has been taking the leap to join the Boyd Innovation Center as Program Manager. It was a scary decision to leave my previous role, where I had a great team and felt comfortable, but something about this opportunity felt exciting and aligned with my goals. Now, seeing all the incredible initiatives we’re rolling out and being part of this thriving community has been incredibly rewarding. It’s a decision I’m so glad I made.
How do you #GiveFirst to the BIC community?
One of the ways I give first is by fostering support among program alumni. We’re launching peer meetup groups for graduates of our pre-accelerator program, ColaStarts, which help founders validate their ideas, conduct market research, and develop a pitch to share their idea publicly for the very first time. By creating these support networks, we’re ensuring that alumni continue to feel connected, empowered, and equipped to take their ideas further.
Share a core memory from an experience at the BIC.
My core memory is from the first Pitch Night I attended, which was held on Boyd Plaza. I had never experienced anything like it in Columbia. Founders were pitching their ideas in front of a packed, supportive crowd. Unlike the high-stakes drama of shows like Shark Tank, this event had an energy of encouragement and collaboration. It wasn’t about tearing down ideas but uplifting them. The night even transitioned into a fun, social atmosphere with music and community energy. That experience cemented my love for this community.
What is your biggest challenge right now?
My biggest challenge is connecting with all the incredible people who have come through the BIC programs. I want to meet every alum, learn about their ideas, and find ways to support their journeys. It’s a big goal, but it’s one I’m committed to tackling.
Where are you finding success?
I’ve found success in the organic, serendipitous moments here at the BIC. Whether it’s catching up with someone in person or discovering innovative projects from local founders on LinkedIn, these connections have been incredibly inspiring. They remind me of the incredible talent and creativity right here in Columbia.
What are you excited about?
I’m excited about supporting the programs and initiatives that have already made such a positive impact here at the BIC. One project I’m particularly thrilled about is the upcoming launch of an online community platform. This digital hub will serve as a central place for founders to access resources, funding opportunities, and webinars. It’s all about making the wealth of knowledge and connections at the BIC more accessible to everyone, no matter where they are.
Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from founders like Dana who are shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Columbia.
