Investing in entrepreneurs is investing in the local economy. HANDS’ programs help to strengthen and sustain wealth and well-being by supporting residents to identify, launch, and grow businesses that serve their community—thereby creating a positive feedback loop of economic growth and community revitalization. 

The mission to support small businesses took on an increased urgency during the pandemic, when many local retailers struggled to stay afloat. In response to an increased need for resources and technical support, we partnered with Rising Tide Capital to create a grant-supported small business coaching program: Sustain and Thrive. 

Entrepreneurs selected into Sustain & Thrive are paired 1:1 with Dedicated High-Growth Coaches who are themselves successful business owners. The Coach identifies the business's most pressing needs and works individually with selected entrepreneurs to enact a targeted 90 Day Business Action Plan, build their knowledge base and professional network, and improve the growth potential of their business.

To increase the impact of the coaching, the selected entrepreneurs are also granted $8,000 to use for business operations, online presence & marketing, and bookkeeping & accounting. 

Through this initiative, we equip small-business entrepreneurs with knowledge-based and financial resources to change their financial trajectory. We are already seeing this initiative inspire more entrepreneurs to collaborate with each other and residents to improve the neighborhood’s economic and social conditions.