Why we exist
Mission
To build the connective infrastructure that lets businesses find capital, win contracts, hire talent, learn faster, and grow together — with the same standard of service normally reserved for the largest firms.
We operate as a digital operating system for the business community: every program feeds the next, every record connects, and every member has a path forward that does not depend on who they already know.
Access is the whole job
Capital, contracts, customers, and knowledge exist. Getting businesses to them is the work.
Infrastructure beats events
A ribbon cutting is a moment. A working platform is a system businesses can rely on every day.
Everything connects
A directory profile should lead to a contract. A course should lead to funding. Nothing stands alone.
Institutional standard
Members, corporations, and government agencies should all recognize this as a serious institution.
By the numbers
Impact
- Member Businesses
- 1,240
- Businesses Served
- 3,860
- Entrepreneurs Trained
- 2,415
- Funding Opportunities Shared
- 618
- Contract Opportunities Shared
- 1,092
- Business Referrals Generated
- 4,730
- Event Attendees
- 9,180
- Course Completions
- 5,264
- Jobs Posted
- 742
- Youth Served
- 1,375
- Partnerships
- 96
- Community Investment Connected
- $18.4M
Demonstration data pending verified reporting.
Member leadership
Councils and committees
Small Business Council
Government Affairs Council
Procurement Council
Economic Development Council
Workforce Council
Technology + AI Council
Education Council
Women in Business Council
Young Professionals Council
Corporate Leadership Council
Entrepreneurship Council
Membership Council
Council rosters and leadership bios are published by administrators. Named individuals are not shown until confirmed.
Who we work with
Partner network
Bank / CDFI
Midwest Community Lender
Funding · Education
Corporation
National Corporate Partner Consortium
Procurement · Workforce
Foundation
Heartland Community Foundation
Funding · Community Projects
Workforce Organization
Cornerstone Learning Collective
Workforce · Education
Library
Regional Public Library System
Education · Community Projects
University
State University System
Education · Procurement
Government
City Business Affairs Office
Procurement · Advocacy
Nonprofit
Bridge Forward Foundation
Community Projects · Funding