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Understanding U.S. Small Business Ecosystems

Building More Equitable Small Business Support and Capital Ecosystems Across Nine Cities

With the financial support of JPMorgan Chase & Co., Next Street partnered with Common Future to study the unique economic and social context and state of play for small business communities in nine cities across the country. Many entrepreneurs of color in these cities faced persistent gaps in access to capital, support services, and networks needed to grow their businesses.

Next Street partnered with Common Future and local stakeholders to conduct in-depth ecosystem analyses, culminating in city-level reports and a national synthesis of findings and recommendations.

Our Approach

• Studied the economic and social context of small business communities in nine cities

• Assessed the current state of entrepreneurs of color and gaps in services and capital access

• Identified programs that could be developed or amplified to create more equitable outcomes

• Synthesized findings and lessons learned across cities into a national report

Results

• 9 cities studied

• 6 city-level Ecosystem Assessment reports produced

• [Add: number of stakeholders engaged, entrepreneurs interviewed/surveyed, or other metrics, if available]

Next Street Solution

• Ecosystem Assessment & Strategy: A data-driven approach to mapping your small business ecosystem, identifying gaps, and designing strategies that drive growth and measurable impact. Learn more.

The Impact
A clearer, shared understanding of small business ecosystem needs across nine cities, actionable insights for local stakeholders, and a national framework — Understanding U.S. Small Business Ecosystems — to guide communities building more equitable ecosystems for entrepreneurs of color.