Northwest Incubator

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Minority-owned businesses are one of the backbones of the nation’s economy. Over the last 10 years, these businesses have created over 4.7 million jobs. Currently, there are more than 4 million minority-owned businesses in the United States, with sales that total nearly $700 million. Despite their growing importance, minority businesses face many obstacles, particularly when it comes to business financing. Minority businesses are much less likely to get loans than non-minority business owners. Minorities, in particular, Black-Americans, who do secure financing usually received half of what their counterparts receive. In November 2020, Crooked Creek Northwest Community Development Corporation launched the Northwest Incubator for Creators, Hustlers, and Entrepreneurs, focused on creating access that leads to inclusive entrepreneurship. St. Luke's supported the pilot program and six aspiring business owners received months of intense training and development, seed capital, and access to significant resources such as designers, general contractors, and pro bono legal support.