Breaking barriers. Building businesses. Strengthening communities.

Founded more than 30 years ago by Harvard Business School professor Dr. Michael E. Porter, ICIC is a national nonprofit dedicated to helping under-resourced communities and their small businesses thrive through programming and research.

Our programs provide executive education, coaching, technical assistance, and access to capital to more than 3,000 business owners across the U.S. and Canada each year. As a leader in economic development research, we turn insights into action, using thought and practice leadership to drive inclusive economic prosperity. 

We partner with policymakers, funders, small business organizations, and community leaders to facilitate private sector investment and create opportunities for small businesses and local economies.

We empower small businesses to grow profitably, create quality jobs, and build generational wealth.

At ICIC, we study economic challenges and equip businesses and communities with the tools to overcome them.