I am happy to see you guys finally about to start running a community.
Going by the real meaning of that word community, it's simply a union of people that assist one another to Grow and develop.i would suggest you begin with incentives that will attract and make people much interested in it. Maybe like contest with enticing offers.
Contest and offers increase engagement in a community. You will also need a set of devoted members or officials that will help manage and scout for deserving authors whose works are under appreciated.
There will be need to pay very close attention to the newbies who are still finding their route through the steemit community. There should be a feedback channel that will be able to answer and sort out challenges the young community members might be having.
The growth of a community lies on the its members generaly.There will be need to spread your tentacles to allow members who probably might not be knowledgeable enough for now to thrive. A contest with very good and attractive offer will likely attract more members.
Community grows together when in unity, peace, love and understanding.
Wish you the very best.