Building Momentum from the Start
The Entrepreneurs of Color Fund (EOCF) began in 2015 as a collaborative effort between JPMorgan Chase & Co. and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation in Detroit. Since then, the initiative has expanded steadily and has reached ten cities across the country.
Take a look at our work in each of our ten markets:
In Atlanta, EOCF is helping a wide variety of businesses get the lifeblood capital they need through three CDFI partners.
The Entrepreneurs of Color Fund began operating in Chicago in 2018 and has since channeled
over $20 million dollars of capital to small businesses.
Since launching in 2015, our effort in Detroit has grown to provide more than $2 million in loans and financing annually.
Entrepreneurs of Color Fund is committed to supporting small business owners serving communities of color in the Los Angeles area.
Miami joins as the 10th EOCF market, with four partners aiming to serve 325 entrepreneurs who serve communities of color.
Entrepreneurs of Color Fund brings its focus to support firms serving communities of color in New Orleans.
A more equitable small business environment in New York would create a stronger city as a whole. EOCF is entrepreneurs to create a stronger city for all.
The EOCF’s February 2022 launch in Newark is an important part of an effort to expand the program’s footprint across the nation’s largest metropolitan areas.
In Oakland, CA EOCF helps small businesses increase their access to capital, mentorship and technical assistance.
The Entrepreneur of Color Fund’s borrowers reflect the diversity and creativity of the DC area’s small businesses.
“The Entrepreneurs of Color Fund plays a critical role in driving small business growth in our communities, particularly those that have experienced generational disinvestment. We are grateful to these newest funders for stepping up and doing their part as we expand access to capital, develop entrepreneurial skills, and truly unlock our city's potential as a beacon of hope and opportunity for all.”
- Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot
What types of business owners are we reaching?
- Restaurant/Food/Drink: 21%
- Construction: 9%
- Retail: 7%
How are entrepreneurs using the funding?
- Working Capital: 31%
- Expansion: 20%
- Start-Up: 10%
- Equipment: 6%
