Addressing the Wealth Gap

The impetus behind the Build2Scale program is rooted in the persistent wealth gap that has long plagued the Black community in Memphis and across the nation. Despite the city's vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, Black-owned businesses have historically faced significant barriers to growth and sustainability, often struggling to access the capital, resources, and support needed to thrive.

A Collaborative Approach to Transformation

The Build2Scale program is a collaborative effort that brings together the expertise and resources of the University of Memphis, Community Lift, and the Black Business Association of Memphis. By leveraging the strengths of these three institutions, the program aims to provide a comprehensive suite of support services to Black-owned tech businesses, helping them to overcome the challenges that have traditionally hindered their growth.

Empowering Microbusinesses to Become Small Businesses

At the heart of the Build2Scale program is a focus on transforming microbusinesses into small businesses within the technology, IT, and engineering sectors. By providing a "lean framework" of entrepreneurship and leadership training, coaching, and consulting, the program aims to equip Black-owned tech businesses with the skills, resources, and support they need to scale their operations and access critical funding from capital lenders.