Small Business Development: Funder Learning Collaborative Meeting
We look forward to our second collaborative meeting and hope you will join us. We will delve deeper into the Massachusetts small business ecosystem.
Over our next two sessions we will explore the various entities that make up the small business ecosystem. This includes funders (banks, impact investors, community development lenders, and foundations), government agencies, business service providers, and advocacy groups. By better understanding the components of the ecosystem, we can gain a clearer picture of the resources available and identify gaps in support.
Our goal for the August meeting is to concentrate on the funding landscape. We will engage with leaders from banking, philanthropy, and community development financial institutions (CDFIs) to discuss their roles and strategies in supporting the small business ecosystem. In the fall, we will shift our focus to business service organizations, exploring how they provide business advising, coaching, technical assistance, and various other forms of direct support to small businesses.
Ecosystem Landscape: We'll learn more about the different components of the Massachusetts ecosystem
- Key Supporters: We'll identify the key players providing essential support across the state, fostering a deeper understanding of their contributions.
- Resource Navigation: We'll uncover the diverse range of resources available
- Bridging the Gaps: We'll explore potential areas within the ecosystem that require further attention
Speakers include:
Sheila Farragher, Manager of HarborOne U, HarborOne Bank
Nia Evans, Executive Director, Boston Ujima Project
Chris Hunter, Director of Advisory Services, Local Enterprise Assistance Fund (LEAF)
About the Collaborative:
Together as a group of funders, we will identify needs, set shared goals, and develop strategies to enhance the support system for small businesses in Massachusetts. As a participant, you'll engage in discussions, share insights, and explore innovative solutions with fellow funders, both via Zoom and occasionally in person. Join us if your foundation funds in this area and you have the availability to attend regular Collaborative meetings (approx 6 per year).
Please feel free to reach out to the project manager for this collaborative,
Karleen Porcena, if you have any questions.