Community Development
Strengthening local ecosystems so entrepreneurs and neighborhoods thrive together.
Practical, specific, and measurable.
One business changes a block. A bakery anchors a corner, hires two neighbors, buys from a local supplier — and suddenly the block works differently. We work at the level of the block: partnering with business districts, community organizations, and local government so that new entrepreneurs strengthen the places they come from.
What the program is built on
Durable local ownership
Helping operators build business value, dependable service, and organizations that can contribute to a district over time.
Working partnerships
Districts, schools, lenders, and founders at the same table with clear roles, shared information, and decisions close to the work.
Education & skill building
Community-hosted workshops that meet people where they are, in the spaces they already trust.
Long-term sustainability
We measure what lasts: businesses still open, jobs still held, districts still improving — years later, not weeks later.
Built with local knowledge
Community development runs on partnerships — business districts, local organizations, funders, and city leaders who want their neighborhoods to work better. If that's you, let's design a useful program together.
Help people build with confidence
Your gift supports practical learning, experienced mentors, useful research, and the operating work behind dependable programs.
A gift of $100 supports practical education, mentorship, research, and program delivery.
501(c)(3) · EIN 33-1687251 · Tax-deductible as allowed by law · Secure checkout by Stripe