Minority Business Development Agency - U.S. Department of Commerce

📣 MBDA is rolling out $11 million in grants through three programs designed to elevate MBEs nationwide: 🔹 MBDA Women’s Entrepreneurship Program: https://lnkd.in/e9fZC-AU 🔹MBDA Rural Business Center Program: https://lnkd.in/e45yJyJn 🔹 MBDA Parren J. Mitchell Entrepreneurship: https://lnkd.in/em5azezF From advancing opportunities for women entrepreneurs to strengthening rural businesses and enhancing education for long-term success, these grants are built to create lasting impact. Take the first step toward accessing transformative funding that addresses systemic challenges and empowers diverse business owners to thrive - apply today. #WeAreMBDA

When U.S. businesses thrive, so does our nation’s competitive edge. A resilient economy isn’t just good business; it’s essential to our national security. At MBDA, we’re not just advocating for businesses; we’re championing the future of American economic leadership. Empowering our clients unlocks their ingenuity, creates jobs, and fuels growth for everyone. By seizing untapped opportunities and investing in lasting prosperity, we create a future where U.S. businesses flourish.

Success starts wherever opportunity is cultivated. Rural businesses often face bigger hurdles when securing capital, landing contracts, and building a strong workforce. Compared to urban businesses, they have fewer resources, fewer connections, and fewer opportunities to scale. MBDA’s Rural Business Center Program is changing that. By bringing expert guidance, technical assistance, and business support to rural communities, MBDA is helping rural businesses overcome these barriers and compete on a larger stage. Because success isn’t about where you’re located—it’s about having the right tools to grow. Learn more: https://www.mbda.gov/

Dr. Suma Metla turned financial guidance into a springboard for growth. With support from MBDA’s Capital Readiness Program (CRP), she secured $45K to expand Three Little Ducks Hawaii. This pediatric physical therapy company helps keiki—Hawaiian for “children”—build strength and independence. After years of working with children and families, Dr. Metla saw a growing need for more accessible pediatric therapy and developmental resources across the Hawaiian Islands. As demand for her services grew, she realized that to scale her impact, she needed access to capital and financial expertise. That’s why she joined the YWCA Oahu CRP Accelerator Cohort, where she participated in Wrap Around Counseling, networking, and financial training. With the skills she gained, she secured $45,000 in capital to expand operations and hire new staff, ensuring more families across Hawaii can access the care they need. By strengthening her financial foundation, Dr. Metla is building a sustainable business that will continue to support keiki for years to come. Learn how the CRP can help your business grow: https://lnkd.in/dyik8Cw4 #WeAreMBDA

#ICYMI: The Minority Business Development Agency Celebrates National Black History Month. "Every year, National Black History Month is an occasion to celebrate the contributions of so many black American patriots who have indelibly shaped our Nation’s history." - President Donald J. Trump Read the White House Proclamation on National Black History Month here: https://lnkd.in/en28FKfb

📣 The Rural MBDA Business Center Program is investing $4M to support institutions that serve rural minority business enterprises. Eligible minority-serving institutions and consortia led by MSIs can leverage this funding to: 🔹 Provide technical assistance and capacity-building support 🔹 Address broadband access and supply chain challenges 🔹 Collaborate with private sector partners to enhance economic opportunities Selected institutions will receive funding for up to 10 multi-year projects aimed at enhancing business development, fostering economic resilience, and driving long-term growth in rural communities. Applications close on March 17, 2025. Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/e45yJyJn #WeAreMBDA #Entrepreneurship

📣 $5M in funding is available for higher education institutions committed to empowering MBEs through the Parren J. Mitchell Entrepreneurship Education Program. HBCUs, Hispanic-serving institutions, Tribal Colleges, and other eligible institutions can access funding for up to 10 multi-year projects focused on strengthening supply chains, advancing technology commercialization, and providing evidence-based business training in management, financial planning, and technology adoption. Applications close on March 17, 2025. Explore this opportunity and apply: https://lnkd.in/em5azezF #WeAreMBDA #Entrepreneurship

Take your business to the next level with the MBDA Women’s Entrepreneurship Program. 📈 Designed to support women entrepreneurs at all stages, this program offers resources to secure capital and break into industries like STEM and federal contracting. Whether you’re launching a new venture or scaling an established one, this program provides counseling, training, and technical assistance to help you grow. With $2M in funding for FY 2025 and annual renewals through 2029, it’s an investment in your success. Applications close March 17, 2025. Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/e9fZC-AU #WeAreMBDA #Entrepreneurship

The Virginia MBDA Business Center invites you to join a virtual discussion on doing business with federal agencies!   Their panelist, NASA Deputy Assistant Administrator Robert Medina, will share important insights and training resources to arm your business when preparing to do business with agencies like NASA next Thursday, January 30th at 1 P.M. EST! Register via QR code or by going to https://lnkd.in/epsQ5idu!

Today, the Minority Business Development Agency celebrates the life of Martin Luther King Jr., whose work led to a grand expansion of civil rights for millions of Americans. His legacy and impact will always be remembered.