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HONORING BLACK HISTORY MONTH
The Economic Development Collaborative would like to recognize the month of February as Black History Month. This month is dedicated to honoring and celebrating the contributions of Black Americans throughout history. During this time, and throughout the entire year, the EDC is committed to supporting Black-owned small businesses. The following are a handful of programs* that provide support for Black-owned small businesses:
Programs and Resources
EDC Small Business Development Center: EDC offers programs designed to assist businesses in key areas with one-on-one technical advising through the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). In partnership with the SBDC, this program provides entrepreneurs with high-level business consulting at NO-COST. CLICK HERE for more information.
EDC LOAN: As the region’s largest economic development public-private partnership, EDC provides access to capital and direct business advising to nearly a thousand businesses a year. CLICK HERE for more information.
EDC UPSKILL: EDC helps business owners remain competitive and retain talent with customized training classes for employees, owners and non-native English speakers. CLICK HERE for more information
8(a) Business Development Program: Helps socially and economically disadvantaged small businesses grow by limiting competition for certain contracts to participating businesses, allowing them to become solid competitors in the federal marketplace. CLICK HERE for more information.
HUBZone Program: The government limits competition for certain contracts to businesses in historically underutilized business zones. The program aims to award at least three percent of federal contract dollars each year to HUBZone-certified companies. CLICK HERE for more information.
Small Disadvantaged Business: Register to contract with the government as a Small Disadvantaged Business. CLICK HERE for more information.
Women-Owned Small Business Federal Contracting Program: The federal government’s goal is to award at least 5% of all federal contracting dollars to women-owned small businesses each year. CLICK HERE for more information.
Veteran Contracting Assistance Programs: Learn about federal programs that help veteran-owned small businesses access federal contract awards and surplus personal property. CLICK HERE for more information.
SBA Mentor-Protégé Program: Enables eligible small businesses (protégés) to get valuable business development help and win government contracts through partnerships with more experienced companies (mentors). CLICK HERE for more information.
*Programs are subject to change
EDC Service Commitment
At the Economic Development Collaborative, we are committed to fostering a thriving and prosperous community where every individual and business has the opportunity to succeed. We believe in creating an environment where all voices are heard, contributions are valued and potential is realized. By working together, we strengthen our region, empower innovation and build a future that benefits everyone.
Since 1996, we have remained a steadfast champion for economic growth and regional prosperity. We remain unwavering in our commitment to our mission: fostering a thriving economy where businesses, communities and leaders have the resources they need to succeed. Guided by our core values of being impact-driven, collaborative, authentic and responsive, we continue to strengthen economic resilience, expand opportunities and ensure a high quality of life across our region.
Recognizing Staff & Advisors
In recognition of Black History Month, we would like to celebrate some of our advisors and staff! Click on the staff/advisor’s photo to read their full bio and learn more about their background.
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