Several local resources are geared specifically toward helping underserved and underrepresented entrepreneurs navigate business development.
Here are 10 organizations or programs working to close the gap locally for women- and minority-owned businesses.
Business Startup Guide: Insights to help entrepreneurs get their ideas off the ground in 2024
Create Campaign
A minority business development nonprofit that works to advance inclusion in entrepreneurship, including through business training, technical assistance and microlending funds.
- Website: createcampaignks.com
Create Capital Fund
From Create Campaign, a short-term microloan offered in the amount of $2,500 to $25,000 to qualified minority business owners, who may not otherwise qualify for traditional lending, to grow their businesses while also improving their financial profile.
- Website: createcampaign.com/createcapital
Empower
A nonprofit working to quip Wichita's Hispanic entrepreneurs with small business development resources.
- Location: 2601 N. Arkansas Ave.
- Website: empowernorthend.org
The Gathering
A networking group for Black professionals and business owners in Wichita to build connections with one another and advance their careers and businesses.
- Website: thegatheringict.com
GROWKS Loan Program
This program, administered by NetWork Kansas and the Kansas Department of Commerce, aims to help make matching capital, up to $100,000, accessible to underrepresented entrepreneurs.
- Website: growks.com/loans
The Hive
A networking and coworking space for Wichita women in business that aims to empower growth.
- Location: 200 N. Broadway, Suite 110
- Website: thehivewichita.com
Office of Minority and Women Business Development
From the Kansas Department of Commerce, the office provides certification and education for disadvantaged, minority- and women-owned businesses across the state.
- Website: kansascommerce.gov
Spark Community Business Academy
A 12-week program from Create Campaign Inc. designed for new and growing for-profit businesses that provides hands-on business training in planning, financials and management with curriculum and coaching tailored to minority entrepreneurs.
- Website: createcampaignks.com/spark
The Thread: A Women's Leadership Collective
Geared toward professional women in Wichita looking to level up their careers and businesses
- Website: thethreadwlc.com
Wichita Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Supports Hispanic-owned businesses in Wichita with networking opportunities, mentorship programs and educational workshops.
- Location: 350 W. Douglas Ave.
- Website: wichitahispanicchamber.org
