About Initiative for a competitive inner city
Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC) is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to driving inclusive economic prosperity in under-resourced communities. The organization achieves this through innovative research and programs that create jobs, income, and wealth for local residents.
ICIC was founded in 1994 by Harvard Business School Professor Michael E. Porter. The organization's mission is to help revitalize inner cities across the United States by promoting entrepreneurship and economic development.
One of the key ways that ICIC achieves its mission is through its Inner City 100 program. This program identifies and celebrates the fastest-growing inner-city businesses in America. These businesses are recognized for their innovation, job creation, and contribution to their local communities.
In addition to the Inner City 100 program, ICIC also conducts research on urban economies and provides training programs for entrepreneurs in under-resourced communities. The organization's research helps policymakers understand the challenges facing inner-city economies and develop effective strategies for promoting economic growth.
One of ICIC's most successful programs is its Business Development Program (BDP). This program provides intensive training and support to small business owners in under-resourced communities. Through BDP, entrepreneurs receive one-on-one coaching from experienced business advisors who help them develop growth strategies, access capital, and navigate complex regulatory environments.
Another important initiative of ICIC is its Urban Business Initiatives (UBI) program. UBI works with anchor institutions such as hospitals, universities, and corporations to promote local sourcing from small businesses located in under-resourced communities. By connecting these anchor institutions with local suppliers, UBI helps create new opportunities for small businesses while also strengthening the overall economy of these neighborhoods.
Overall, Initiative for a Competitive Inner City has been instrumental in promoting economic development in some of America's most disadvantaged neighborhoods. Through innovative research initiatives like Inner City 100 as well as targeted training programs like BDP and UBI , ICIC has helped thousands of entrepreneurs build successful businesses while creating jobs , income ,and wealth within their own community .