In 1919, the focus of Greater Milwaukee Urban League was helping people find jobs; 105 years later, we’re also helping folks build businesses and create wealth.
The Entrepreneurship Connection, which launched in March 2023, provides information, support, and key connections to resources for local entrepreneurs who want to take their businesses to the next level. The effort was initially, and generously, sponsored by Molson Coors, which provided free memberships to The Lonely Entrepreneur, an online platform providing help and advise to individuals working to grow their businesses.
Greater Milwaukee Urban League partnered with other nonprofit organizations to bring more opportunities to local entrepreneurs. We sponsored workshops with local financial institutions to provide key connections establishing relationships with lenders, and we created a network of support.
We’re especially excited about our partnerships with Meijer and Kohl’s, two Midwest giants in the retail industry. A February, we hosted Meijer’s Road to Retail event. More than 200 entrepreneurs showed up to learn how to get their products on Meijer shelves. They also participated in a product pitch to get the attention of Meijer executives.
Some entrepreneurs are still working with Meijer, but two products have already hit the store shelves. Alisha and Tydus Hayes have an established mail-order and restaurant barbecue business, but now their signature product – Pat’s Rib Place House Sauce – can be found at local Meijer stores. You may have to look hard to find it, though. The sauce is THE top sales product on the stores highlighted Wisconsin products section.
Your generous financial support allows us to help Alisha, Tydus and hundreds of other individuals who turn to Greater Milwaukee Urban League for support. As we prepare for our biggest fundraiser of the year – the 39th Annual Black and White Ball – we ask you to consider sponsoring the event or purchasing tickets to the November 2nd gala.
Our commitment to empower communities and change lives is as strong as it was 105 years ago. Join us on the journey.
Best Regards,
Dr. Eve M. Hall
President & CEO
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