The National Urban League’s Center for Entrepreneurship in St. Louis is thrilled to announce that applications are now being accepted for the U.S. Minority Business Development Agency’s Small Business Capital Readiness Program.
This initiative, part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to enhance access to capital for underserved entrepreneurs, is a game-changer for small businesses in St. Louis and beyond. St. Louis is one of only three affiliates nationwide selected for this program, joining Cincinnati and Los Angeles.
The Capital Readiness Program is a crucial step in helping small business owners overcome barriers and achieve their goals…
Dr. Aleta Grimes Mitchell
Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship
Empowering Underserved Entrepreneurs
The Capital Readiness Program is designed to break down barriers to funding and resources for minority, women, and underserved business owners. Backed by a $10 billion investment through the State Small Business Credit Initiative, the program offers vital support for entrepreneurs looking to grow and scale their businesses.
Key features include:
- Access to Capital: Guidance on applying for funding programs and investor connections.
- Access to Networks: Opportunities to collaborate with mentors, coaches, and peers to tackle challenges.
- Capacity Building: Support to help businesses scale, focusing on empowering disadvantaged entrepreneurs.
Transforming St. Louis Businesses
Michael McMillan, President of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, highlighted the program’s potential to foster economic growth and support local entrepreneurs.
“This initiative will help create pathways for small businesses to secure the resources they need to succeed,” McMillan stated.
Dr. Aleta Grimes Mitchell, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship, underscored the importance of building capacity for innovation and expansion. “The Capital Readiness Program is a crucial step in helping small business owners overcome barriers and achieve their goals,” she said.
Who Can Apply
Applications are open to businesses that:
- Are located in Missouri.
- Have been operational for at least one year.
- Are owned by minority, women, or underserved entrepreneurs seeking to enhance their capacity and access capital.
Take the First Step
Don’t miss this opportunity to grow your business with the support of the Urban League’s Capital Readiness Program. Apply today or contact the Center for Entrepreneurship at entrepreneurship@urbanleague-stl.org.
Applications are now open—take action today and start building a brighter future for your business!
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