Breaking Down Barriers

In this insightful episode of "Breaking Down Barriers," host David Ponraj sits down with Michael Bevis, the Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship for the City of Denver, and founder and CEO of Cool Skins. They delve into Denver's unique and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, which David and Michael recognize as the "entrepreneurship capital of the United States." The discussion highlights Michael's journey from a 12-year-old entrepreneur to his current role, where he's dedicated to supporting underserved entrepreneurs and fostering business growth. They explore the critical importance of a government-led, entrepreneur-centric approach to economic development, focusing on the ScaleUp Network program's success in helping businesses grow from $1 million to over $10 million in revenue. The conversation also emphasizes the vital role of data collection in understanding entrepreneurial journeys, measuring impact, and securing continued funding, ultimately contributing to job and wealth creation within the community.

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In this special 7-year anniversary edition of the Breaking Down Barriers podcast, the senior leadership team at Economic Impact Catalyst (EIC) reflects on its journey from a single founder’s vision to a growing, mission-driven organization. Founder David Ponraj, alongside Chief Operating Officer McKenzie Dial-Fritscher and VP of Client Experience Molly King, revisits the early days of EIC, the lessons learned, and the people who have made the most impact along the way. The conversation explores themes of growth, curiosity, resilience, and the evolving role of leadership. They discuss the importance of staying grounded, how personal values shape professional decisions, and the need for empathy in scaling a team. As they look to the future, the team shares their hopes for continued progress and the lasting legacy they aim to build through meaningful relationships and impactful work.

Join host David Ponraj as he dives deep into California's groundbreaking initiatives for small business development with Tara Lynn Gray, Director of the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA). In this eye-opening episode, we explore the state's innovative technical assistance program and its mission to democratize access to capital for underserved entrepreneurs. From success stories like a San Diego doctor's journey through faith-based workshops to the transformative potential of mesh networks, discover how California is reimagining small business support. Gray shares her insights on scaling support for solopreneurs, implementing Governor Newsom's equity-focused executive order, and leveraging SSBCI 2.0 funding to create a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Whether you're a small business owner or passionate about economic development, this conversation offers a compelling look at how California is working to bridge the gap between innovation and opportunity.

Learn more about CalOSBA's work here: https://calosba.ca.gov/about/office-of-the-small-business-advocate/

Join Kim Vogel, Chief Strategy Officer at Economic Impact Catalyst, as she hosts an enlightening episode of Breaking Down Barriers with Melvin Coleman, President & CEO of the Atlanta Black Chambers. In this engaging conversation, Melvin discusses the innovative initiatives driving economic growth and support for Black-owned businesses in Atlanta. Discover how the Atlanta Black Chambers is making a difference and learn about the transformative strategies shaping the future of Black entrepreneurship.

This episode of the Economic Impact Catalyst podcast delves into the Wisconsin Economic Development Network (WiDEN). Host David Ponraj is joined by Marjorie Rucker, Executive Director of The Business Council, Inc., and Chair of the Ethnic and Diverse Business Coalition, along with Dr. Bri Robins, Director of Community Development at Economic Impact Catalyst. Together, they explore WiDEN's statewide initiatives and their potential nationwide impact.

This is a special edition of the Breaking Down Barriers Podcast. We've flipped the script and are interviewing our Founder and CEO, David Ponraj as we celebrate Economic Impact Catalyst's 6th Anniversary.

Join Kim Vogel from Economic Impact Catalyst as she interviews Jessica Eilerman, the founder of Forward Communities Consulting Group (FCCG), in this insightful episode on public-private partnerships (PPPs).

Jessica Eilerman brings a wealth of experience to the discussion, with 18 years in public service, non-profit, and association management. Following her recent move to the Greater St. Louis area from Florida, she established FCCG with a mission to facilitate impactful economic, community, and policy development.

During her tenure at the City of St. Petersburg, Eilerman spearheaded various initiatives in economic and business development, fostering collaborative relationships and formulating policies to support businesses. She also played a pivotal role in managing The Greenhouse, St. Petersburg's entrepreneurship and business development center.

Prior to her city service, Eilerman served as the Southwest Florida Market Manager for Florida's Department of Financial Services, where she supported citizens and businesses across the Gulf Coast market.

With extensive experience in policy development, project management, strategic communications, and community development, Eilerman is a recognized champion for small businesses and equitable economic development.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Eilerman is deeply involved in volunteerism and community service, serving on multiple Boards of Directors and being recognized for her contributions, including being named St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce's Member of the Year in 2021.

Eilerman holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Evansville and a Master's Degree from Webster University's School of Business & Technology, where she graduated with honors.

Tune in to gain insights from Jessica Eilerman's expertise as she shares her journey and perspectives on driving impact through public-private partnerships.

In this episode of Breaking Down Barriers, we welcome Gisele Hamm, MA program director for the MAPPING the Future of Your Community strategic visioning and planning program at the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs at Western Illinois University and Chris Merrett Dean for Innovation and Economic Development and the Director of the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs (IIRA) at Western Illinois University (WIU). The IIRA is a university-based research, outreach, teaching, and policy development center that identifies and implements strategies for sustainable rural community and economic development. Merrett also serves as WIU Distinguished University Professor.

Many rural communities across the country face challenges like population decline, limited resources, and a lack of opportunities. But there's good news: with strategic planning and a focus on homegrown solutions, these communities can not only survive but thrive.

Empowering Communities to Take Charge

Programs like the Mapping Program, offered by the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs, are making a difference. This innovative initiative brings community members together for a series of intensive workshops, fostering a grassroots effort to create a vision for the future. By working collaboratively, residents identify their community's strengths and weaknesses, establish shared goals, and develop concrete action plans to achieve them.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities

The challenges faced by rural communities can be daunting, but they also present opportunities for innovation. Here are some key strategies to consider:

• Community Planning: Develop a data-driven plan with the Mapping Program or a similar initiative. Leverage hidden assets like community foundations to fund local projects.
• Supporting Small Businesses: Shift the focus from attracting large corporations to building an ecosystem that supports entrepreneurs. Offer training programs, create a welcoming environment for startups and remote workers, and establish co-working spaces.
• Workforce Development: Partner with local community colleges to develop training programs that equip residents with in-demand skills. Recognize the growing diversity in rural communities and expand opportunities for underrepresented groups to become entrepreneurs.
• Building Hope and Capacity: Tap into resources like Peace Corps Fellows and AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers to supplement local expertise. Provide ongoing support to communities that have completed a strategic planning program.

Building a Brighter Future, Together

By working together, rural communities can overcome challenges and create a future filled with opportunity.  With careful planning, a focus on local businesses, and a commitment to developing a skilled workforce, vibrant rural communities can become a reality.

As part of the American Rescue Plan, the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) 2.0 is providing billions to support small businesses and drive innovation across the country. In this interactive panel discussion, Host David Ponraj is joined by economic development leaders from California, Iowa and Mississippi as they share how they are designing inclusive, statewide Technical Assistance programs to ensure equitable access to SSBCI capital and resources. Here are some of the highlights:

Overcoming Barriers Through Trusted Connectors

• Programs bring in trusted community organizations as "connectors" to reach underserved entrepreneurs
• "It's important to have those boots on the ground, community partners...they're trusted compared to a state office" - Mary Kelly, Iowa Economic Development Authority
• Minority chambers, local libraries and more help build pathways to overlooked businesses

Designing for Equity and Inclusion From the Start

• California took an innovative "mesh network" approach by partnering diverse entities across categories
• "The intent was it would be collaborative...touching every industry from every corner of California" - Shalawn Garcia, California Office of the Small Business Advocate
• Programs focus on promoting capital readiness and access for all through targeted outreach

Meeting Stringent Reporting & Compliance Needs

• Robust data tracking and customized systems ensure granular reporting to meet federal requirements
• Detailed intake surveys capture business intel from the start to streamline compliance
• "We've been pleased with how easy it's been to modify systems for our specific process needs" - Don Calcote, Mississippi Small Business Development Center

Fueling the Engines of Entrepreneurial Growth

As the SSBCI 2.0 initiative expands access to capital, these states are pioneering inclusive models to clear the path for more diverse founders and businesses to thrive. Through innovative program design and strategic partnerships, they are unlocking entrepreneurial opportunities across America.

Connect with us to see how to design your state’s Technical Assistance program to be equitable, efficient and compliant. Book a call with our team to learn more: https://calendar.app.google/4rVfGh3uJzoP7uVm8

Connect with the Panel:

Shalawn Garcia - CaLOSBA

https://calosba.ca.gov/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shalawngarciasmith/

[email protected]

Mary Kelly - Iowa EDA

https://www.iowaeda.com/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marykellyy/

[email protected]

Don Calcote - Mississippi SBDC 

https://www.mississippisbdc.org/

[email protected] 

#SSBCI #TA #technicalassistance #entrepreneurshipledeconomicdevelopmement #ELED #economicdevelopment #webinar #governmentprogram #programmanagement #accesstocapital

In this insightful discussion, Host David Ponraj speaks with John Dearie, President of the Center for American Entrepreneurship (CAE). John lays out a compelling case for why fostering entrepreneurship is pivotal for driving U.S. economic growth, job creation, and innovation. As America faces challenges around lackluster economic performance and declining startup rates, Dearie and his organization are working to put entrepreneurship at the forefront of the policy agenda. Some critical takeaways from this conversation:

Why Entrepreneurship Matters:

• Entrepreneurship is critical for economic growth, job creation, opportunity expansion and rising wages
• Most major innovations that have transformed economies stem from startups and entrepreneurs
• U.S. entrepreneurship has been in decline for 4 decades, contributing to slower economic growth
• Reversing this trend is "one of the most important and fundamental challenges facing the country"

CAE's Mission:

• Educate policymakers on the vital role of entrepreneurship and reduce barriers to starting businesses
• Advocate for an "American Entrepreneurship Agenda" addressing capital, talent, regulation, and more
• Champion inclusive entrepreneurship by expanding access for women and entrepreneurs of color
• Support entrepreneurs at all stages from starting up to recovering from failure

Policy Victories:

• Established first Congressional Entrepreneurship Caucuses in House and Senate
• Key role in bills like the Expanding American Entrepreneurship Act and CHIPS and Science Act
• Driving policies to restore startup R&D tax treatment and expand the child tax credit
• Pushing for bankruptcy reform, affordable healthcare, and reducing student debt burdens

Follow CAE for the latest on their work igniting entrepreneurial opportunities across America. 

The CAE website: https://startupsusa.org/

CAE Socials: https://www.facebook.com/startupsusa/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/center-for-american-entrepreneurship/ 

Connect with John Dearie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-dearie-b34565155/