Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) drives inclusive economic prosperity in under-resourced communities through innovative research and programs to create jobs, income, and wealth for local residents.
Founded in 1994 by Harvard Business School Professor Michael Porter, the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City is a national nonprofit research and advisory organization and the leading authority on U.S. under-resourced economies and the businesses that thrive there.
Underserved communities are rich with opportunity. We help business, government and philanthropic leaders leverage local assets to transform communities. Our research team has helped to shape economic development strategies in more than twenty inner cities.
ICIC delivers the knowledge and the know-how to achieve sustainable economic and job growth.
Whether supporting one of our high-impact urban business programs or the entire organization, our partners know they are choosing to support an organization dedicated to transforming inner cities across the country. Our partners include Bank of America, Chevron, Kaiser Permanente, various foundations and individual donors.
Learn how you can support ICIC’s work
Inner cities are distressed urban and suburban areas of concentrated poverty and low income. Inner city residents represent 14% of the population—that’s 45 million people. Of U.S. residents living in poverty, 31 percent live in inner cities.
Join us to learn more about the about the Building for Growth (BFG) in New Jersey program.
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
ICIC drives inclusive economic prosperity in under-resourced communities through innovative research and programs to create jobs, income, and wealth for local residents.
Contact
PO Box 191297
Roxbury MA 02119
Phone: 617-238-1740
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