Small businesses are the heartbeat of our economy. They account for almost half of our GDP and employ nearly half of all private-sector workers. Entrepreneurs of color represent the fastest growing segment of the small business market, yet they have the least access to capital. They are more likely to be denied credit; more likely to pay high interest rates; and less likely to apply for loans out of fear of being denied.

The Initiative for Inclusive Entrepreneurship (IIE) is a national effort to expand access to capital for small businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged business owners. IIE harnesses the power of public-private collaboration to ensure the equitable implementation of the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s $10 billion State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), 40% of which is designated for businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals (SEDI).

If you would like to learn more about the Initiative for Inclusive Entrepreneurship (IIE), please visit our partner’s website.

​​​​​​The Geo-Economics Initiative (GEO) helps government, businesses, and community leaders navigate a new era of economic and policy disruption within the areas of climate adaptation, supply chain resilience, and navigating emerging technologies. GEO develops and implements solutions through conducting innovative research, convening key stakeholders, and mobilizing capital. 

Download Information on Our Advanced Technologies Initiative