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In this special 7-year anniversary edition of the Breaking Down Barriers podcast, the senior leadership team at Economic Impact Catalyst (EIC) reflects on its journey from a single founder’s vision to a growing, mission-driven organization. Founder David Ponraj, alongside Chief Operating Officer McKenzie Dial-Fritscher and VP of Client Experience Molly King, revisits the early days of EIC, the lessons learned, and the people who have made the most impact along the way. The conversation explores themes of growth, curiosity, resilience, and the evolving role of leadership. They discuss the importance of staying grounded, how personal values shape professional decisions, and the need for empathy in scaling a team. As they look to the future, the team shares their hopes for continued progress and the lasting legacy they aim to build through meaningful relationships and impactful work.

In this insightful episode of "Breaking Down Barriers," host David Ponraj sits down with Michael Bevis, the Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship for the City of Denver, and founder and CEO of Cool Skins. They delve into Denver's unique and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, which David and Michael recognize as the "entrepreneurship capital of the United States." The discussion highlights Michael's journey from a 12-year-old entrepreneur to his current role, where he's dedicated to supporting underserved entrepreneurs and fostering business growth. They explore the critical importance of a government-led, entrepreneur-centric approach to economic development, focusing on the ScaleUp Network program's success in helping businesses grow from $1 million to over $10 million in revenue. The conversation also emphasizes the vital role of data collection in understanding entrepreneurial journeys, measuring impact, and securing continued funding, ultimately contributing to job and wealth creation within the community. View an example of our dashboard example here or Book a Demo to receive an in-depth look at custom dashboards.

In this episode of Breaking Down Barriers, EIC CEO David Ponraj is joined by Charles Kollo, fintech leader and Head of Innovation at BBF Capital, to explore the urgent need for innovation in the financial system. From immigrant entrepreneurship to the role of AI in capital deployment, they dig into why traditional banking fails many small businesses—and how community-first, tech-enabled solutions can build a more resilient and inclusive economy.

David Ponraj speaks with Victor Hwang, founder of Right to Start, about how our policy framework for entrepreneurship is stuck in the 20th century. They discuss the barriers entrepreneurs face, the effects on a society's wealth creation through entrepreneurship, and how the new “America the Entrepreneurial” campaign is mobilizing communities nationwide ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. Learn more about "Right to Start" Learn more about "America the Entrepreneurial" Read "TRACTION: GET A GRIP ON YOUR BUSINESS", by Gino Wickman

What happens when you create a comprehensive support network that serves nearly 4.3 million small businesses across an entire state? In this insightful episode of "Breaking Down Barriers," host David Ponraj interviews Dr. Tara Lynn Gray, Director of the California Office of the Small Business Advocate, about the remarkable impact of California's SCALE network—a groundbreaking mesh network approach to small business support. SCALE (Success, Capital Access and Leadership for Entrepreneurs) was created by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA) to help California's diverse small businesses across the state access more resources to start up, grow, and create jobs. This innovative program transforms the traditional hub-and-spoke model into a connected mesh network that places small businesses at the center, allowing them to access support from multiple points across the network. Dr. Gray reveals the strategic vision behind this unified ecosystem and explains how California has built the most robust small business support network in the country. The conversation explores how SCALE transitions from a traditional hub-and-spoke model to a connected mesh network, providing redundancy and resilience by allowing small businesses to access support from multiple points across the network. The episode also delves into the network's data-driven approach to measuring success, ensuring accountability, and building the case for sustained funding to serve California's 4.3 million small businesses. Key Topics Discussed The philosophy behind meeting businesses "where they are"How California's mesh network model creates resilience by connecting all stakeholders—investors, educators, technical experts—around one goal: small business successThe importance of unified data models for tracking real-world impactBreaking down barriers to capital for BIPOC-owned businesses who are denied capital at disproportionate ratesStrategies for advocating for long-term program fundingBuilding interconnected pathways rather than siloed support systemsThe $25.3 million program funded through the U.S. Treasury's State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) and American Rescue Plan Act California's Small Business Support Network: Seven Years of Measurable Impact The numbers tell a powerful story of entrepreneurial support across California's extensive network: Businesses & Training 845,185 small businesses served34,788 training events completed13,900 new businesses launched Economic Impact 84,437 jobs created781,050 jobs retained68,730 new contracts secured Capital Access $2.9 billion in lending capital approved$3.6 billion in equity raised Program Impact & Funding Funding for this $25.3 million program comes from the U.S. Treasury's State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), which was created by the U.S. Congress in 2010 and reauthorized through the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. Additionally, it will support the deployment of $1.1 billion in federal funding separately approved for capital support programs, with lenders across the state expected to leverage this into $18 billion in new loans for small businesses. Resources & Links SCALE Network Information: a href="https://calosba.ca.gov/for-small-businesses-and-non-profits/small-business-centers/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

I this episode, we're bringing you recent panel discussion on how Miami-Dade County is building a more inclusive '305 economy.' Our guests, Anthony Bonamy and Manny Cid share practical strategies for connecting entrepreneurs to the right resources, eliminating blind spots in support systems, and creating responsive programs through initiatives like Strive305Hub that truly serve local businesses and founders across the county. Watch the full discussion here

In this episode, host David Ponraj speaks with Johnathan Holifield, published author and highly practiced economic development authority, about his book: The Future Economy and Inclusive Competitiveness. Johnathan, the Architect of Inclusive Competitiveness (™) is the former executive director of the White House Initiative on HBCU and senior vice president of Bitwise Industries,  and who's now looking for his next big challenge where he can contribute to meaningful change. The two share an animated and deeply philosophical discussion about what defines and impedes economic equity and economic mobility in America. Economic mobility hinges on ownership – ownership of assets and ownership of skills. A combination of the two is the key for individuals to achieve economic equity. Johnathan shares that “the constitution protects us against racial discrimination, but doesn’t protect us with economic rights.” They discuss how the “race factor” has been a crutch when attempting to understand economic inequities, and that we haven’t been creative in addressing true solutions. Economic equity is hard to measure and is a difficult concept. That does not mean that it is not a critical concept worth measuring.  A fascinating, deep dive conversation that chips away at the underpinnings of the wealth gap; and the previous and current superficial solutions that aren’t working and may, in fact, be widening that gap. Listen in to hear their in-depth insights, challenging questions and revolutionary solutions toward achieving real, measurable economic equity and inclusive competitiveness for all. About Johnathan Holifield: Johnathan is an Innovation Economy leader, civil rights advocate and former NFL athlete. His  community roles, which evolved into economic development–especially with regard to  tech / innovation–are of special note, including NAACP and other civic entrepreneurial roles, which opened the door to the VP, New Economy Enterprise, Cincinnati USA Chamber of Commerce and Founding Executive. Director, CincyTech. This began his career in economic development.   What makes his career unique is the hard-to-match background in traditional community development and groundbreaking leadership in tech / innovation-based economic development.  It is the blending of his multidisciplinary background into an interdisciplinary career in tech / innovation economic development that is unparalleled. His interdisciplinary career fueled creation of the Inclusive Competitiveness Framework.  Connect with Johnathan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thetrimtabber/ 

In this episode, host David Ponraj has a no holds barred conversation with Donovan Duncan, Executive Vice President of Urban Strategies, Inc. They discuss USI’s place-based initiative that focuses on housing, people, and economic solutions. Donovan shares that having a strong sense of place and belonging is what makes a thriving community; it is the most central part of economic development. “Place is at the epicenter of all things, of all experiences, of transformation and change. It’s how people ground themselves in their identity.”  He also shares some staggering statistics around homelessness and the wealth gap.  Learn more about USI’s work in cities like Cleveland, which has a housing-first model with a goal of ending chronic homelessness by the year 2030 using an intentional, grassroots approach. They discuss fallacies around low-income housing, the good and bad of capitalism when it comes to equity, and the limited lens of credit scoring. Donovan also outlines his Big Hairy Audacious Goal for 2024, to incrementally lessen the wealth gap for African American households using a targeted, tracked and very specific method. An ambitious goal that can change the industry framework so that it meets the moment that we are in and creates opportunity for all. Connect with Donovan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donovan-duncan-7b5a8356/ Email: [email protected] Website: https://urbanstrategiesinc.org/

In this episode, Host David Ponraj digs into the immense potential in public sector work with Carroll Bernard, CEO & Co-Founder at Govology.com, and former government worker at the U.S. Small Business Administration.  Carroll and his team at Govology specialize in opening up opportunities in the $500 billion government contracting market to small businesses, as there is an immense gap in awareness about government programs. "The government procurement process can seem daunting, but the reward is well worth the effort - very sustainable revenue streams that allow companies to grow. Do good work [for the government] and there's always more business available, unlike the budget constraints in the private sector." Carroll shares deep insights and processes to help small businesses navigate the government sales process and land those lucrative federal, state and local contracts; from researching spending data to crafting winning proposals. David and Carroll explore the advantages of the 8A program for small disadvantaged businesses, including sole source contracts and set-aside contracts, as well as the potential for teaming opportunities with larger businesses. The discussion covers the essential steps for businesses to register on sam.gov and qualify for government programs, including the importance of market research before registering on SAM and identifying relevant NAICS codes and product service codes. They delve into the intricate details of small business certifications and government contracting, highlighting the specific eligibility criteria and federal programs available, including individual-based certifications for service-disabled veterans, small disadvantaged businesses, and women-owned businesses, as well as location-based certifications like HUBZone. Learn more about public procurement at Govology.com Connect with Carroll Bernard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrollbernard/ Resource: USAspending is the official open data source of federal spending information, including information about federal awards such as contracts, grants, and loans. https://www.usaspending.gov/

In this episode, host David Ponraj is joined by Tarsha Hearns, Sr. Director at The DEC Network in Dallas, TX. Together, they shared the progress of our exciting, collaborative initiative to support underrepresented founders in Dallas. The Dallas-based Entrepreneur of Color Credit Enhancement Fund study was launched in 2023 with an anticipated fund implementation in the fall of 2024. This fund is a partnership between The DEC Network and Economic Impact Catalyst, with generous support from JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Kellogg's Foundation, and TD Jakes Foundation.  Tarsha Hearns knows these challenges all too well. As an entrepreneur of color herself, she has lived the same struggle to access capital holding back so many others. During a recent conference session, Hearns provided raw insight into how DEC is working to change the status quo for diverse founders in Dallas. As Hearns explains, DEC undertook extensive research to unpack why so many minority and women entrepreneurs in the city could not access loans or investments. They conducted focus groups, surveys, and outreach to both business owners and the ecosystem meant to serve them. The findings revealed a complex web of disconnects that contribute to capital gaps in Dallas's historically underserved neighborhoods. Many local community development financial institutions (CDFIs), despite a mission to provide equitable funding access, were still rejecting minority applicants at concerning rates. This is often tied to issues like low credit scores or lack of traditional collateral -systemic barriers that disproportionately impact entrepreneurs of color. Faced with this reality, The DEC spearheaded the creation of a novel, ecosystem-based solution: the Inclusive Entrepreneurial Capital Initiative. Recognizing the need for alignment, this initiative brought CDFIs and banks together with small business support organizations on the front lines in underserved neighborhoods. The fund plays a crucial role in promoting equitable access to funding by offering tailored lending, products, and programs that address the unique capital access gaps that exist for entrepreneurs of color, while recognizing the specific needs and concerns of the Dallas entrepreneurial community. The Dallas Entrepreneur of Color Credit Enhancement Fund is at work to shape the next generation of diverse entrepreneurs. The DEC website: https://thedec.co/  Recent Press about the Fund: https://dallasinnovates.com/bank-of-america-supercharges-the-dec-network-mission-with-120k-for-entrepreneurs-of-color/  Connect with Tarsha Hearns: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarshapolkhearns/

In this insightful discussion, Host David Ponraj speaks with John Dearie, President of the Center for American Entrepreneurship (CAE). John lays out a compelling case for why fostering entrepreneurship is pivotal for driving U.S. economic growth, job creation, and innovation. As America faces challenges around lackluster economic performance and declining startup rates, Dearie and his organization are working to put entrepreneurship at the forefront of the policy agenda. Some critical takeaways from this conversation: Why Entrepreneurship Matters: Entrepreneurship is critical for economic growth, job creation, opportunity expansion and rising wagesMost major innovations that have transformed economies stem from startups and entrepreneursU.S. entrepreneurship has been in decline for 4 decades, contributing to slower economic growthReversing this trend is "one of the most important and fundamental challenges facing the country" CAE's Mission: Educate policymakers on the vital role of entrepreneurship and reduce barriers to starting businessesAdvocate for an "American Entrepreneurship Agenda" addressing capital, talent, regulation, and moreChampion inclusive entrepreneurship by expanding access for women and entrepreneurs of colorSupport entrepreneurs at all stages from starting up to recovering from failure Policy Victories: Established first Congressional Entrepreneurship Caucuses in House and SenateKey role in bills like the Expanding American Entrepreneurship Act and CHIPS and Science ActDriving policies to restore startup R&D tax treatment and expand the child tax creditPushing for bankruptcy reform, affordable healthcare, and reducing student debt burdens Follow CAE for the latest on their work igniting entrepreneurial opportunities across America.  The CAE website: https://startupsusa.org/ CAE Socials: https://www.facebook.com/startupsusa/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/center-for-american-entrepreneurship/  Connect with John Dearie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-dearie-b34565155/ 

As part of the American Rescue Plan, the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) 2.0 is providing billions to support small businesses and drive innovation across the country. In this interactive panel discussion, Host David Ponraj is joined by economic development leaders from California, Iowa and Mississippi as they share how they are designing inclusive, statewide Technical Assistance programs to ensure equitable access to SSBCI capital and resources. Here are some of the highlights: Overcoming Barriers Through Trusted Connectors Programs bring in trusted community organizations as "connectors" to reach underserved entrepreneurs"It's important to have those boots on the ground, community partners...they're trusted compared to a state office" - Mary Kelly, Iowa Economic Development AuthorityMinority chambers, local libraries and more help build pathways to overlooked businesses Designing for Equity and Inclusion From the Start California took an innovative "mesh network" approach by partnering diverse entities across categories"The intent was it would be collaborative...touching every industry from every corner of California" - Shalawn Garcia, California Office of the Small Business AdvocatePrograms focus on promoting capital readiness and access for all through targeted outreach Meeting Stringent Reporting & Compliance Needs Robust data tracking and customized systems ensure granular reporting to meet federal requirementsDetailed intake surveys capture business intel from the start to streamline compliance"We've been pleased with how easy it's been to modify systems for our specific process needs" - Don Calcote, Mississippi Small Business Development Center Fueling the Engines of Entrepreneurial Growth As the SSBCI 2.0 initiative expands access to capital, these states are pioneering inclusive models to clear the path for more diverse founders and businesses to thrive. Through innovative program design and strategic partnerships, they are unlocking entrepreneurial opportunities across America. Connect with us to see how to design your state’s Technical Assistance program to be equitable, efficient and compliant. Book a call with our team to learn more: https://calendar.app.google/4rVfGh3uJzoP7uVm8 Connect with the Panel: Shalawn Garcia - CaLOSBA https://calosba.ca.gov/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/shalawngarciasmith/ [email protected] Mary Kelly - Iowa EDA https://www.iowaeda.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marykellyy/ [email protected] Don Calcote - Mississippi SBDC  https://www.mississippisbdc.org/ [email protected]  #SSBCI #TA a href="https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/technicalassistance" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

In this episode of Breaking Down Barriers, we welcome Gisele Hamm, MA program director for the MAPPING the Future of Your Community strategic visioning and planning program at the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs at Western Illinois University and Chris Merrett Dean for Innovation and Economic Development and the Director of the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs (IIRA) at Western Illinois University (WIU). The IIRA is a university-based research, outreach, teaching, and policy development center that identifies and implements strategies for sustainable rural community and economic development. Merrett also serves as WIU Distinguished University Professor. Many rural communities across the country face challenges like population decline, limited resources, and a lack of opportunities. But there's good news: with strategic planning and a focus on homegrown solutions, these communities can not only survive but thrive. Empowering Communities to Take Charge Programs like the Mapping Program, offered by the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs, are making a difference. This innovative initiative brings community members together for a series of intensive workshops, fostering a grassroots effort to create a vision for the future. By working collaboratively, residents identify their community's strengths and weaknesses, establish shared goals, and develop concrete action plans to achieve them. Turning Challenges into Opportunities The challenges faced by rural communities can be daunting, but they also present opportunities for innovation. Here are some key strategies to consider: Community Planning: Develop a data-driven plan with the Mapping Program or a similar initiative. Leverage hidden assets like community foundations to fund local projects.Supporting Small Businesses: Shift the focus from attracting large corporations to building an ecosystem that supports entrepreneurs. Offer training programs, create a welcoming environment for startups and remote workers, and establish co-working spaces.Workforce Development: Partner with local community colleges to develop training programs that equip residents with in-demand skills. Recognize the growing diversity in rural communities and expand opportunities for underrepresented groups to become entrepreneurs.Building Hope and Capacity: Tap into resources like Peace Corps Fellows and AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers to supplement local expertise. Provide ongoing support to communities that have completed a strategic planning program. Building a Brighter Future, Together By working together, rural communities can overcome challenges and create a future filled with opportunity.  With careful planning, a focus on local businesses, and a commitment to developing a skilled workforce, vibrant rural communities can become a reality.

Join Kim Vogel from Economic Impact Catalyst as she interviews Jessica Eilerman, the founder of Forward Communities Consulting Group (FCCG), in this insightful episode on public-private partnerships (PPPs). Jessica Eilerman brings a wealth of experience to the discussion, with 18 years in public service, non-profit, and association management. Following her recent move to the Greater St. Louis area from Florida, she established FCCG with a mission to facilitate impactful economic, community, and policy development. During her tenure at the City of St. Petersburg, Eilerman spearheaded various initiatives in economic and business development, fostering collaborative relationships and formulating policies to support businesses. She also played a pivotal role in managing The Greenhouse, St. Petersburg's entrepreneurship and business development center. Prior to her city service, Eilerman served as the Southwest Florida Market Manager for Florida's Department of Financial Services, where she supported citizens and businesses across the Gulf Coast market. With extensive experience in policy development, project management, strategic communications, and community development, Eilerman is a recognized champion for small businesses and equitable economic development. Beyond her professional endeavors, Eilerman is deeply involved in volunteerism and community service, serving on multiple Boards of Directors and being recognized for her contributions, including being named St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce's Member of the Year in 2021. Eilerman holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Evansville and a Master's Degree from Webster University's School of Business & Technology, where she graduated with honors. Tune in to gain insights from Jessica Eilerman's expertise as she shares her journey and perspectives on driving impact through public-private partnerships.

This is a special edition of the Breaking Down Barriers Podcast. We've flipped the script and are interviewing our Founder and CEO, David Ponraj as we celebrate Economic Impact Catalyst's 6th Anniversary.