Creating an economy that works for everyone

Providing high-impact education to empower minority business owners, close the wealth gap, and create a more inclusive economy

National Convening

SOLVEIT 2024

May 5-7, 2024 | Chicago, IL

OUR MISSION

We accelerate the growth of businesses owned by people of color, as well as businesses in low-wealth communities, through transformational business education, purpose-driven research, and effective partnerships—all in service of creating an inclusive economy for all.

Transformational Education

Our programs help level the playing field and create opportunities for participating entrepreneurs.

Purpose-Driven Research

Rigorous research drives all we do—and ensures that our program outcomes support our claims.

Effective Partnerships

Partnerships with public and private organizations help create a more favorable environment for small businesses.

"I had no previous knowledge of how to manage a business when I founded Drillhead. Now I know what aspects of business management need to be adjusted and which ones need a change. The StreetWise MBA gave me the knowledge to manage my business and the confidence that I can do anything I decide to."

Misael Sanchez, CEO, Drillhead Drilling & Shoring, Inc.

"The Emerging Leaders class has improved every aspect of our business, from discovering how we are different from our competitors to hiring and onboarding employees, to understanding our financials. Our business has almost doubled in size and revenue, and we are in the process of expanding to a second location within our community."

Kaye Boehning, Tomorrow's Promise, Inc.

OUR VALUES

Bold
For us, it’s more than work—it’s a mission.

We embrace bold, creative ideas in our thinking and our work, as we tackle systemic issues. Our tenacity and confidence in our goals allows us to break through and strive for change that is generational in its impact.

Purposeful
Our world is constantly changing—so we are, too.

With a focus on our core mission, we approach new questions with intellectual curiosity, nimble adaptability, and methodological rigor. We are strategic in the connections we make within our work, our network, and our field.

Inclusive
Everyone has a part to play—we’re in this together.

Our work directly impacts cities, neighborhoods—all of us. We intentionally collaborate and reach out across place, race, creed, and sector. We recognize that diversity—in all forms—makes us smarter, stronger, and more successful.