The Indianapolis Urban League (IUL) Entrepreneurship Center, launched in July 2021, supports minority entrepreneurs in Central Indiana by helping them develop, launch, sustain, and grow their small businesses. The Center offers in-person and virtual workshops, short-term industry-recognized credentials, individualized coaching, and strategic support to help business owners access resources, increase revenue, reduce costs, and create jobs.

Its core mission is to expand access to start-up and growth capital, identify emerging business opportunities, assist with contract procurement, and strengthen connections among small business owners, industry partners, and community resources ultimately advancing wealth creation and economic stability.

Since 2021, the Entrepreneurship Center has accomplished:

• Enrollment of 245 small businesses across 10 cohorts

• Awarding of nearly $200,000 in IUL Helping Hand Grants

• Distribution of nearly $90,000 to 300+ entrepreneurs through the IUL Entrepreneur & Small Business Fair

• Over $398,501 secured in additional grants and funding by participants

• Delivery of 100+ workshops and 3,000+ counseling hours

• 20 entrepreneurs earning industry-recognized credentials