Entrepreneurship for All (EforAll) is a nonprofit business accelerator whose mission is to accelerate economic and social impact through inclusive entrepreneurship. EforAll recently announced the launch of a free Business Accelerator program in NW Arkansas with financial support from the Walton Family Foundation. Diverse populations have increased in the region, with Hispanic and Latino residents accounting for 17 percent of the population. Therefore, these programs will also be offered through EforAll’s Spanish program, EparaTodos.
EforAll business accelerator’s impact
EforAll helps under-represented individuals successfully start and grow their businesses or nonprofits across a wide range of industries. These industries include personal and professional services, food, retail, manufacturing and technology. The program offers a unique combination of business training, mentorship, and access to a professional network. They also have the opportunity to win seed money.
“EforAll will provide vital resources and creates access to entrepreneurial opportunities for everyday Northwest Arkansas residents striving to launch new businesses,” said Yee Lin Lai, program officer, Walton Family Foundation.
Among the over 500 businesses started by EforAll participants:
- 74 percent owned by women
- 58 percent owned by people of color
- 46 percent owned by immigrants
- 39 percent owned by people who were previously unemployed.
These businesses generated over $25M in revenue and created 720 local jobs in 2019.
Community integration
“We are thrilled that our proven program is expanding to Northwest Arkansas. This region has enjoyed tremendous economic success, but community and business leaders recognize the need to create a more inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystem to meet the needs of all its residents,” said David Parker, CEO, EforAll. “We believe EforAll and EparaTodos will fill that void by helping those who may not have access to the right resources or tools start a business and have their own opportunity to flourish in the local community.”
“EforAll’s bilingual business accelerator programs will offer Latino entrepreneurs in the region the confidence, support and networks they need to start their businesses,” said Jeannette Balleza Collins, entrepreneurial development director, Northwest Arkansas Council. “It’s energizing to consider the power of more inclusive engagement and representation in our diversifying community.”
EforAll’s Business Accelerator program will include its first community pitch contests. This free event is open to everyone. This offers an opportunity to validate a business idea, win prizes, network with local businesses, and meet potential customers. This program will launch this summer in both English and Spanish.
To learn more about EforAll and its Northwest Arkansas programs, please visit www.eforall.org/ar/northwest-arkansas.
About EforAll, the business accelerator
Entrepreneurship for All (EforAll) is a nonprofit organization that partners with communities nationwide to help under-represented individuals successfully start & grow a business through training, mentorship and a professional support network. To date, EforAll alumni have launched more than 500 businesses and created more than 700 local jobs. Programs are available in both English and Spanish. EforAll is currently available in the following MA communities: Berkshire County, Cape Cod, Fall River/New Bedford, Greater Worcester, Holyoke, Lawrence, Lowell, Lynn, and Roxbury as well as Longmont, CO. To learn more about EforAll, please visit eforall.org.
Learn more about EforAll in this Lioness interview with Lianna Kushi from EforAll.
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