Interise

As we close out 2024, we’re celebrating 20 years of impact, growth, and community. Since 2004, Interise has: ✅ Supported 10,000+ women- and minority-owned small businesses ✅ Helped create 180,000 well-paying jobs ✅ Generated $20 billion+ in revenue for local economies This year, we’ve continued to expand our reach through new programs, innovative partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to building an inclusive economy. But the work is far from done—legal and systemic challenges continue to make it harder for small businesses to access the resources they need to thrive. With your support, we can continue to make a difference. Let’s start 2025 stronger together. 🌟 Make your tax-deductible year-end gift today to support small businesses and economic equity: interise.org/give Thank you for being a part of our journey. Here’s to another 20 years of success! 🚀 #InclusiveEconomy #SmallBusiness #InteriseStrong #Interise20years

When Joseph Jolly, owner of PGI Foods, joined Interise’s #StreetWiseMBA in 2011, his business was already a hidden gem. But with $10M in revenue, 3 employees, and a growing dream, Joseph knew it was time to level up.   “The Interise program helped me break out of isolation, connect with other entrepreneurs, and learn from their experiences. It opened my eyes to new opportunities, like securing loans to purchase and expand our facility, which allowed us to grow exponentially.” – Joseph Jolly   Fast forward to today: PGI Foods has skyrocketed to $42M in annual revenue, employs 160 local team members, and produces a jaw-dropping 250,000 pounds of food every week!   Joseph’s story is proof of what happens when ambition meets the right resources. From starting with a single recipe for clam chowder to becoming a trusted supplier for restaurants, grocery stores, and private labels nationwide, PGI Foods has become a force to be reckoned with.    #InteriseStrong #InteriseAlum #SWMBA #SmallBusinessSuccess #InclusiveEconomy  

Congratulations to the latest class of CEO Now! These exceptional business owners came together and worked through challenges, found opportunities, and developed long-term plans to take their businesses to the next level. Applications for the next CEO Now class open later this month! Sign up for the Elevate Hennepin newsletter to be the first to know. https://lnkd.in/gFVrtZRv

Sourcing qualified, diverse suppliers can be a major challenge—but with Interise, you can bridge the gap. Together, we can create a customized Equity Contractor Training program for minority- and women- business owners. The goal? To equip these entrepreneurs with the tools, skills, and training they need to meet your subcontracting requirements.    Take the next step. Learn more and apply today: https://lnkd.in/gkc26cPx

Despite inflation, labor shortages, and rising costs, our new 2024 Alumni Impact Insights report shows that Interise alumni continue to prioritize local hiring and competitive salaries.    For the third year in a row, 100% (median value) of our alumni are providing local residents full-time employment—nurturing the skills of working age residents, reducing unemployment, and improving the economic vitality of their communities.   Further, in 2023, employees hired by our alumni earned a median annual salary of $49,960—$1,900 more than the median salary for all U.S. workers.   Explore how Interise alumni are shaping the future of small business and local economies: https://lnkd.in/g-sUByab   #InteriseStrong #SmallBiz #InclusiveEconomy

It’s true: we help MWBEs scale up their small businesses, in part by helping them win supply chain contracts from big corporations.     Also true: those big corporations need to diversify their supplier pool to align their purchasing power with their company mission, qualify for large public and private contracts, and improve their bottom line.     Learn more about how Interise can help your large organization change best intentions into best practices: https://lnkd.in/gkc26cPx 

Today is #GivingTuesday — a chance to make a difference in the lives of small business owners whose dreams and determination uplift their communities. Every dollar you contribute supports programs that help small businesses grow, succeed, and make a bigger impact. Together, we can create a more inclusive and equitable economy for all.   Make a difference today: 🔗 interise.org/give #SupportSmallBusiness #InclusiveEconomy #InteriseStrong

Diverse small businesses are the foundation of sustainable economies, and their success fuels lasting growth.    Through education, partnerships, and opportunity, we've empowered small businesses across the country to thrive—creating local jobs and transforming neighborhoods.    Support their growth and help amplify their impact tomorrow on #GivingTuesday! 🔗 interise.org/give  #SupportSmallBusiness #InclusiveEconomy #InteriseStrong

This Thanksgiving week, we’re reflecting on the incredible impact of the Interise community. Whether as an alum fueling local job creation, a corporate sponsor investing in minority- and women-owned businesses, a conference participant sharing wisdom, or a donor supporting landmark research and ongoing opportunities—you’ve been a catalyst for change. Your collective efforts uplift, empower, and transform lives and businesses. Together, we’re creating lasting progress and building an economy that works for everyone. Thank you for being an essential part of this journey. Here’s to continuing to create an inclusive economy together! #Gratitude #Thanksgiving #InclusiveEconomy #Interise

Fraud can be a hidden risk for #smallbusinesses, but with the right internal controls, you can safeguard your business from unexpected losses. Is your business prepared? Join us for Fraud Defense 101: Small Business Protection on December 4th for a valuable session that will equip you with practical tools and insights. Learn to recognize the common types of fraud that impact small businesses, identify early warning signs, and implement best practices for prevention. This webinar, led by Eddy Desir, Assistant Vice President and Financial Education Specialist at Cambridge Savings Bank, is designed to give you proactive strategies for safeguarding your business and building a culture of transparency and security. Register today: https://lnkd.in/gpFs9zt8 #InteriseStrong #Webinar