ICIC Brings Free Training to Small Business Owners
The Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) is launching the Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC) program in Shreveport, aiming to transform the landscape for local entrepreneurs. This program offers a comprehensive, tuition-free mini-MBA experience designed specifically for those operating in underserved communities. The ICCC program is a 40-hour initiative that equips entrepreneurs with advanced education, essential networking opportunities, actionable insights, and personalized coaching. Ultimately, it strives to drive economic development and improve the overall quality of life in these communities.
Investing in Community Growth
ICIC's CEO, Steve Grossman, emphasizes the transformative power of the ICCC program for small business owners. He believes that by blending high-quality education with practical tools and crucial connections to capital, the initiative not only nurtures entrepreneurs but also plays a significant role in fostering sustainable economic development and job creation locally. The primary objective is to continuously evolve and adapt to meet the needs of business owners, ensuring they have the right tools to thrive amidst market challenges.
A Collaboration for Healthier Communities
Ochsner LSU Health stands as a key sponsor of this program, aligning its mission of promoting better health and a stronger community with the support of economic education. Through programs like ICCC, Ochsner works to provide economic stability, which is intertwined with important social factors such as food security, housing, and access to quality healthcare. Corwin Harper, CEO of Ochsner LSU Health, underscores the importance of empowering local business owners as a means to strengthen the workforce and improve community health.
Unprecedented Access to Educational Resources
The 2024 cohort of the ICCC program marks a significant milestone as it becomes available to small businesses in the Shreveport region for the first time. Since its inception in 2005, the national program has facilitated access to $2.5 billion in capital for over 6,585 businesses, resulting in an impressive 153% growth in revenue and the creation of more than 28,000 jobs. In the previous year alone, 800 businesses participated, with a remarkable 88% identifying as BIPOC-owned and 64% as women-owned.
Addressing Key Challenges for Entrepreneurs
The ICCC program is tailored to address challenges small business owners commonly face. It covers critical aspects including capital access, marketing strategies, customer acquisition, talent recruitment and retention, technology adoption, and strategic business planning. ICIC aims to equip entrepreneurs with impactful resources to effectively navigate these hurdles.
Voices from Program Participants
Mirette Seireg Ohman, founder of MPATH, LLC and a participant in the 2023 ICCC cohort, shared her enthusiasm for the program. She notes that the expert materials and supportive environment significantly exceed her expectations, illustrating the program's commitment to fostering growth and success among its participants.
Invitation to Small Business Owners
Small business owners in Shreveport and the surrounding areas are encouraged to apply for the upcoming cohort by a specific deadline. Those accepted will engage in a 40-hour educational experience that includes both in-person and virtual components, designed to fit within their busy schedules. The program will commence with an Opening Seminar, marking the beginning of this enriching journey.
Contact Information and Additional Resources
For more information about the ICCC program, interested individuals can visit the relevant website to submit applications or nominations. A dedicated representative is also available for further inquiries, providing an opportunity to connect with subject matter experts directly.
About ICIC
Established in 1994 by Harvard Business School professor Michael Porter, the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) is recognized for accelerating small business growth within under-resourced communities. Through innovative research and dedicated programs, ICIC creates jobs, income, and wealth for local residents, driving inclusive economic prosperity in the regions it serves.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICCC program?
The Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC) program is a tuition-free educational initiative aimed at supporting small business owners in underserved communities through comprehensive training and coaching.
Who can apply for the ICCC program?
Small business owners in Shreveport and surrounding areas are encouraged to apply for the ICCC program, especially those facing unique challenges in their business growth.
How long is the ICCC program?
The program consists of 40 hours of instruction, divided between in-person and virtual learning, tailored to fit the busy schedules of entrepreneurs.
What types of support does the ICCC program provide?
The program offers advanced education, investment and capital access resources, networking opportunities, and personalized coaching to enhance business operations.
How has the ICCC program made an impact in the past?
Since 2005, the ICCC program has facilitated over $2.5 billion in capital for more than 6,585 businesses and has been instrumental in job creation and revenue growth within communities.
