As the extent and impact of COVID-19 becomes more apparent, entrepreneurs and small businesses are on the front lines of its devastating impact–and with their demise comes potentially catastrophic economic losses for local communities. According to JP Morgan Institute, 50 percent of small businesses have less than 30 days of cash on hand. With 50 percent of Americans working for or owning a small business, the failure of our small business economy could have a widespread and long-standing impact on our unemployment rates and put even greater financial stress on families who are already on the financial brink. This is particularly true of Main Street businesses and families in under-connected and under-resourced communities.

Pittsburgh, like many post-industrial cities, has struggled to center equity in its economic development strategy. As one of Forward Cities’ Community Entrepreneurship Accelerators, we hope to address the lack of equity in entrepreneurship as quickly and as effectively as possible.

This interview is part of the "Ecosystem Builders" series. More information about the ESHIP Communities program can be found here.Q:What is your deeper “why” behind your commitment and work to support inclusive entrepreneurship in Kansas City?  A: Starting out in both...

Editor’s note: This article is part of a larger series called Solution Stories, which aim to tell the story of the work Forward Cities is helping to guide in cities across the country.  For additional background on the specific approach taken in communities like...

This interview is part of the "Ecosystem Builders" series. More information about the ESHIP Communities program can be found here.Q: What is something that’s happening in Kansas City right now that you are excited about?  A: I am really excited with the growth and...

This photo of Edgar Galicia (far left) was provided courtesy of Latino Arts Foundation and is from its quarterly Latinx CEO Meet and Greet with the Community event.This interview is part of the "Ecosystem Builders" series. More information about the ESHIP Communities...

This interview is part of the "Ecosystem Builders" series. More information about the ESHIP Communities program can be found here.Q: What is something that’s happening in KC right now that you are excited about? A: The ESHIP buzz is exciting not only for the Kansas...

Editor’s note: This article is part of a larger series called Solution Stories, which illuminates how Forward Cities is helping to guide in cities across the country. For background on the specific approach taken in communities like New Kensington, please visit the...

Editor’s note: This article is part of a larger series called Solution Stories, which aim to tell the story of the work Forward Cities is helping to guide in cities across the country. For additional background on the specific approach taken in communities like...

This interview is part of the "Ecosystem Builders" series. More information about the ESHIP Communities program can be found here.Dr. Ebony Edwards is passionate about making a unique and positive impact in Kansas City. She is a member of our ESHIP Communities Council...