Carroll Tomorrow announced today that it has finalized the sale of The Burson Center to Carrollton-based Crescent Kayaks, a leading international kayak brand.
An award-winning initiative, The Burson Center has served as West Georgia’s business incubator and resource center, as well as home to the innovative makers space known as the Tinkers Box. Incubating over 100 businesses, The Burson Center provided business planning, coaching, technical support, and affordable office space. Today, 75% of these companies remain in business and, together, have created nearly 1,000 jobs and generated over $70 Million in capital investment.
The Burson Center was possible thanks to the foresight and generosity of Dr. John Burson who saw the need for a business incubator to nurture companies in West Georgia. He donated the property and the building to Carroll Tomorrow in 2004.
“Our community is fortunate to have a deep pipeline of innovative entrepreneurs, and I have been humbled to be part of this initiative that created so many jobs and generated significant economic impact for our community,” said Dr. Burson. “Through Crescent Kayaks, the Center is living out its purpose as home to a growing company.”
“I am excited about Crescent Kayak’s new facility and that we can stay and grow right here in Carroll County,” said James Derbecker, Owner of Crescent Kayaks. “Crescent Kayaks is poised for significant growth in the coming years, and I look forward to creating jobs and investing in a community that means so much to me and to my family.”
“This is an exciting moment for Carroll County and Carroll Tomorrow. We are continuing the legacy of The Burson Center through Crescent Kayaks. The Center was created to foster the growth of innovative business ideas, and Crescent Kayaks is just that. With an incredible entrepreneurial spirit, James Derbecker has turned his passion into a top national brand, and we know that this is just the beginning of even greater success,” commented Loy Howard, Carroll Tomorrow’s Board Chairman and President of Tanner Medical System.
