We recognize the disparities that entrepreneurs of color face in launching, growing, and scaling their businesses. The results of the pandemic have only increased the challenges faced by small businesses in accessing the technical assistance and capital that they need. According to a 2021 report by Boston Indicators and The Boston Foundation, the annual unmet demand for capital among entrepreneurs of color in Massachusetts was estimated at $574 million.
This special convening brings together funders who support initiatives in economic development to learn more about the barriers to capital access for entrepreneurs of color. The program will begin with a brief introduction to the topic by JPMorgan and will be preceded by a presentation by The Boston Foundation’s place-based research on Boston’s capital provider ecosystem for entrepreneurs of color. Funders will have an opportunity to ask questions, share insights from their work, and meet like-minded peers interested in advancing inclusive economic opportunity.
We welcome you to come and learn more about investing in a more inclusive economy and increase wealth generation opportunities for people of color.
Speakers:
- Rafia Zahir-Uddin, Vice President, Global Philanthropy, JPMorgan Chase
- Orlando Watkins, Vice President and Chief Program Officer, The Boston Foundation
- Matthew Brewster, Advisor, P2 Advisors LLC
Join us to learn more about:
- Landscape of mission-based lenders in Massachusetts
- Spectrum of capital access lending for entrepreneurs of color
- Insights and discussion on opportunities to support small business ecosystems
*This event will be hybrid, with the option to join virtually or in-person in Boston.*
In-Person Details:
If you choose to attend in-person, the event will be held at JP Morgan Chase's office at 70 Fargo St, Boston, MA 02210. This location is primarily bus accessible with limited metered parking too. The closest parking garage is the Seaport Place Parking Garage.