When Sarah Stephens Krupp joined the Fostoria Chamber of Commerce and began working closely with Renee Smith at the Fostoria Economic Development Corporation, neither of them knew they were about to create a partnership that would change lives.
At a Main Street conference, they discovered FINSYNC CO.STARTERS, a program designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs turn ideas into viable businesses. They were intrigued, but after seeing its real-world impact on Fostoria’s downtown, they were hooked.
“We saw how CO.STARTERS could actually revitalize a small business community,” Sarah recalls. “It was working right in front of us, and we knew other communities needed this too.”
By December 2023, they officially launched Thrive Community Partners.
Building Businesses, Strengthening Communities
Through their Chamber and Economic Development roles, Sarah and Renee have led multiple CO.STARTERS Core and Generator cohorts, giving aspiring entrepreneurs the tools and confidence to succeed.
To date, they have supported over 52 entrepreneurs and helped launch approximately 35 operational businesses. But for them, it is not just about the numbers.
“Every business we work with has a ripple effect,” Renee says. “When a small business thrives, a whole community benefits.”
Their passion comes through in everything they do. They are not just teaching business skills. They are building confidence and creating lasting community connections.
Practicing What They Preach
Sarah and Renee believe in leading by example. That is why they manage Thrive Community Partners using the same tools they recommend to others, including the FINSYNC platform for bookkeeping and financial management.
“We recommend FINSYNC to the entrepreneurs we serve because it just makes sense,” Sarah explains. “It keeps things simple, and we practice what we preach by using it ourselves.”
By walking the same path as the entrepreneurs they support, they have built a level of trust that sets them apart.
Expanding Their Impact
Sarah and Renee are just getting started.. By the end of 2025, they plan to transition to full-time entrepreneurship, dedicating themselves entirely to Thrive Community Partners.
They are preparing to purchase a FINSYNC CO.STARTERS license to expand the program into more rural communities that need it most.
“There are so many towns like Fostoria that could benefit from programs like CO.STARTERS,” Renee shares. “These are the kinds of initiatives that help people create opportunities right where they live.”
With their passion, expertise, and shared vision, Sarah and Renee are helping build a stronger and more resilient future for small businesses and the communities they serve.
Thriving Together
Thrive Community Partners emerged from Sarah Stephens Krupp and Renee Smith’s shared passion for helping people succeed.
“We both just really care about helping people reach their potential,” Sarah says. “That is what drives us.”
Passionate. Determined. Collaborative. Sarah and Renee are proving that when communities invest in entrepreneurs, entire towns can thrive.