Focusing business training and support in underserved communities can make sure that local governments are getting the most out of their existing programs. Partnering with local community organizations, finding out the needs of entrepreneurs in these communities, and setting explicit targets for underrepresented participation in these programs can ensure that existing work is having real results. One example members of the Task Force shared was a local government encountering many women and minority entrepreneurs unprepared to fill out loan paperwork, which can lead to a catch-22 for local governments that require past performance metrics.
- Medium-impact, Low-difficulty
- Example: Blueprint East Hampton, MA \\ Centro Community Partners in Oakland, CA
- Next Steps: Start by evaluating existing programs’ impact on underrepresented entrepreneurs, then reach out to community or national organizations like KIVA or SourceLink to help set new targets.