Building Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
Regional Joint Venture (Round 6)
This private-public initiative was created to empower and train entrepreneurs of color from underserved communities across
the state of California. In partnership with 5 San Francisco Bay Area Community Colleges the ten week training program recruits, trains, empowers, and provides access to capital for entrepreneurs who want to achieve the California Dream —
owning, operating, and growing a successful small business.
EEE RJV R6 Initiative
College Partners
Supporting Partners
Purpose
The EEE RJV R6 Initiative is a public-private partnership dedicated to empowering Black and Brown entrepreneurs from underserved communities in the Bay Area. Partnering with five local community colleges, the program offers a 10-week training incubator that recruits, trains, and equips participants with the tools and resources needed to own, operate, and grow successful small businesses. By providing a culturally competent curriculum, access to capital, and technical assistance, the initiative fosters economic equity and creates a sustainable pipeline for business creation, expansion, and long-term success.
-
Establish a sustainable enrollment pipeline connecting Black and Brown entrepreneurs to community college business courses.
Support business creation and expansion through comprehensive training and tailored resources.
Provide equitable access to capital to help entrepreneurs grow and sustain their businesses.
Deliver a culturally competent curriculum designed to address the unique needs of underserved communities.
Promote economic equity by empowering entrepreneurs with the skills and tools needed for long-term success.
Use effective marketing and data tracking to ensure participants are well-supported throughout their journey.
-
Entrepreneurs of color from underserved communities across Bay Area, California.
-
Five Community Colleges within Bay Area
Faculty Members and Academic Leadership
Work-based Learning Partners collaborating with the colleges
-
The EEE RJV R6 Initiative has achieved significant milestones in supporting underserved entrepreneurs, including:
Training 206 entrepreneurs.
Formalizing 50 businesses.
Providing access to capital for 27 businesses.
Establishing an on-ramp to community college business courses.
Key Components
Culturally Competent Curriculum
Digital curriculum addressing underserved entrepreneurs' needs and supported by DACUM chart research to align with workforce and entrepreneurial needs.
Marketing and Recruitment
Targeted outreach efforts designed to recruit participants from underserved communities, ensuring equitable access to the program.
FREE 10-Week Business Incubator
A comprehensive program equipping Black and Brown entrepreneurs with the skills and knowledge to develop and expand their businesses, preparing them to successfully grow their ventures.
Faculty and Participant Assistance
Ongoing mentorship and technical assistance provided to both faculty and participants. This ensures smooth program delivery and equips participants with the necessary support.
Access to Capital
Support for prepared entrepreneurs to secure funding needed to grow and sustain their businesses, equipping them for long-term success.
Growth Summits
In-person events at local colleges, bringing together entrepreneurs to showcase their businesses and foster networking for a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Why This Matters
The EEE RJV R6 Initiative addresses systemic barriers faced by Black and Brown entrepreneurs from underserved communities by providing culturally relevant training, access to capital, and critical business support. Through this initiative, participants gain the tools needed to establish and grow successful businesses, fostering economic mobility and equity. By strengthening local economies and creating a sustainable pipeline for business development, the program empowers individuals to achieve lasting success while contributing to broader community resilience and prosperity.