Neighborhood Entrepreneurship Lab Application

A4CB’s Neighborhood Entrepreneurship Lab (NEL) provides capital, coaching, and connections to entrepreneurs ready for growth and who are creating jobs in their communities.

This cohort-based program pairs community entrepreneurs with investors, advisors, and strategists who provide project support and business connections.

Each entrepreneur in the three-month program receives a $20,000 grant to grow his or her business. Since launching in late 2017, there have been ten cohorts with a total of 153 participants. Together these entrepreneurs have grown businesses that have created or maintained more than an estimated 984 jobs in their communities.

Eligibility

•    Started operations prior to July 1, 2023

•    Had an annual gross revenue >= $75,000 in 2024 or YTD 2025

•    Seeking to develop a growth strategy.