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Deep South Economic Mobility Collaborative

The Deep South Economic Mobility Collaborative (DSEMC) is a joint effort between Hope Enterprise Corporation, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, seven cities, and nine historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to invest in the power of small businesses and entrepreneurs in the Deep South, particularly those from underserved and under-resourced communities. With additional support from Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies, the Ford Foundation, and MacKenzie Scott, this innovative collaborative was formed to stabilize and strengthen businesses and communities devastated by the economic crisis.

The comprehensive suite of services offered through the collaborative include:

Each partner brings unique capabilities and years of experience, and all are passionate about promoting economic opportunity in their communities. Through the collaborative, Black small business owners and other underserved entrepreneurs can access loans, business education classes, and technical assistance to position their businesses and communities to thrive.

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Business Education Program – Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses

Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses management education and training program helps entrepreneurs succeed by focusing on practical skills that small business managers can immediately put into action. Over the course of the program, business owners will gain the skills needed to recognize new opportunities, embrace practices that increase business growth, and ultimately develop a customized growth plan for their business. The program is available to small business owners in all 50 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. Click here to learn more about the program, eligibility, and how to apply.

Technical Assistance and Procurement Opportunities – City Government and HBCU Partners

The Deep South Economic Mobility Collaborative has partnered with local governments and HBCUs in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee. Services provided by partners include technical assistance, business support, and procurement opportunities. Partner contacts are also available to connect entrepreneurs to other local resources.

Visit the Partner Page

Small Business Loans – Hope Enterprise Corporation

Small Business Loans from HOPE are designed to help companies build, expand, and succeed.  A Community Development Financial Institution, HOPE provides loans to qualifying small businesses that often lack access to affordable capital or may not qualify for traditional sources of credit. 

To inquire about a loan from HOPE, fill out the loan request form and a HOPE loan officer will contact you to discuss next steps. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, independent of participation in the management education and training program.

HOPE loan officers are also available to provide technical assistance. The assistance focuses on financial literacy, business planning, financial projection and statement development, bookkeeping, and other areas as needed.

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