Libraries Build Business: Delivering Impactful Programs to Empower Underrepresented Entrepreneurs

Join in a conversation with libraries from ALA’s Libraries Build Business cohort and explore promising practices and lessons they learned designing and implementing diverse programming for entrepreneurs and would-be small business owners. Now that the initiative is concluded, the cohort is ready to share with their experiences with peers - you! From a cohort of rural, urban, small and large libraries from around the country, these lessons can be adapted and tailored to fit the local needs and interests of your community. Learn how to start or scale your small business and entrepreneurship offerings, provide inclusive and equitable practices and resources, and engage partners and local stakeholders in your work. With equity, diversity, and inclusion as an integral part of the Libraries Build Business initiative, the cohort will share promising models and strategies for outreach to underrepresented communities, ways to engage community partners, and a culturally responsive approach to building and supporting small business.
This panel presentation will provide practical resources and examples from the initiative, discuss the lessons learned and program impact, and demonstrate the value of libraries in this essential work. Find out how to get involved with our ongoing community of practice to connect with colleagues and build your network. Bring your questions and examples of what you’re already doing to this engaging conversation.