Sergio Espinoza, founder of Manka Food Service Consulting and Design, is a shining example of how dedication, culture, and community focus can fuel entrepreneurial success. Starting as a small business providing Spanish-language food safety training, Espinoza expanded Manka into a thriving company that offers consulting, kitchen design, and project management services to food businesses. His deep connection to the Latinx community, alongside his commitment to generational success, is at the heart of his mission. An alumnus of the Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC) program, Espinoza credits ICCC with helping him secure vital access to capital and business resources, empowering him to scale his company. In recognition of his success, he was honored as an IC100 award winner, a moment he describes as a validation of his hard work and impact. Today, Espinoza continues to support other Latinx entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the challenges of starting and growing their food businesses. His inspiring journey is a testament to the transformative power of entrepreneurship and community support. Read More

Josue Velney is a former Marine and retired firefighter who is now a full-time real estate developer and the CEO of Velney Development, LLC. He holds a bachelor's degree in construction management and is a licensed unrestricted construction supervisor. Velney's military background has shaped his leadership skills, which he has applied to real estate development. He is committed to improving his community through strategic real estate projects and has a rental portfolio spanning several cities. Velney participated in ICIC’s Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC) and Building for Growth (BFG) programs, which provided him with advanced education, coaching, and mentoring. As a result of his hard work and training, his company formed a strategic alliance with Callahan Construction Managers, a full-service construction management company headquartered in Bridgewater, Massachusetts. Velney emphasizes the importance of patience and the support he received from the ICIC community in achieving his success. Read More

“Innovation Districts” and “Innovation Corridors” have been popping up in recent years in an effort for cities to grow their technology and startup ecosystems. Read More

Talk to enough business owners and you’ll find that there’s no singular recipe for success. Read More

Today, with the effects of a sluggish economy still being felt in cities across the U.S., especially in inner cities, many state and local governments are desperate to find the right mix of incentives to attract companies that bring much needed jobs to their region. Read More