ICIC attended the recent Healthcare Anchor Network (HAN) gathering in Los Angeles, focused on building health equity through inclusive local economies.  Anchor institutions play a critical role in cultivating health equity through inclusive local economies. Small businesses emerge as key players in narrowing the racial wealth gap and driving job creation. The fundamental importance of community partnerships and trust-building with grassroots organizations forms a dynamic "virtuous circle." This interconnected network involves community residents, small businesses, non-profits, technical assistance providers, capital facilitators, and anchor institutions. Successfully navigating this complexity demands skills like listening, patience, and a sustained commitment. Challenges include reconciling cost-sensitive anchor procurement with the imperative of supplier diversity for lasting local impact. Anchor institutions, with substantial purchasing power, stand out as pivotal, urging the need to unlock their potential beyond current limits. Capacity building and innovative supply chain financing strategies take center stage, emphasizing a focus on long-term positive change. Ultimately, anchor institutions can serve as catalysts for profound and sustainable community change, underscoring the importance of a commitment to a long-term journey. Read More

Explore the dynamics of meaningful connections through the lens of a key contributor to the ICAN program, shedding light on interactions with ICAN alumni and participation in related events. Recently, a Strategic Alliance Building seminar, led by Dr. Susan Perkins, a Visiting Associate Professor at NYU Stern, took center stage, focusing on imparting both academic insights and practical tools applicable to small business owners seeking to cultivate strategic alliances. The profound impact of applying these acquired principles in real-time, particularly during guided networking sessions, underscored the significance of meaningful connections. Subsequently, at ICIC alumni social events, there was a built-in platform for the informal application of these new networking skills. Ivana Findlay, the ICAN Program Coordinator, offers reflections on this transformative journey, acknowledging a profound evolution in her comprehension of networking, enriched by the connections, lessons, and indelible memories forged throughout this experience. Read More

The Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC) program in New Jersey has achieved significant success by forging partnerships with key stakeholders. Governor Phil Murphy's endorsement and support, along with collaborations with organizations like Santander Bank and the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), have driven a 40% increase in attendance for the program, making it the largest in-person gathering in several years. These partnerships aim to empower women and minority small business owners, aligning with the program's mission to provide valuable executive leadership training and resources for sustainable growth. ICCC plans to expand its successful model to other states in the future, focusing on innovative programming to support small businesses. Read More

Tique Chandler's story is a remarkable example of how tradition, innovation, and resilience can come together. She grew up on her family's beekeeping farm in Scandia, Alberta, and has now become the founder and CEO of Chandler Honey. Tique was recently awarded the 2022 ICCC-Pizza Hut Equal Slice grant, which she is using to improve production processes and expand sales. Read More

Tianna McFarlane, founder of Heal in Colour, is a 2022 ICCC-KFC Recipe for Success Mini-MBA grant winner. She used the funds to help advance her mission of bringing adhesive bandages for people with black and brown skin to the Canadian market and beyond. Read More