Entrepreneurship Thrives in Local Community

As we come to the end of the year, as we celebrate the successes of 194 entrepreneurs, from eleven Communitas Ventures cohorts, in a moment of personal reflection, I was reminded of James Baldwin’s words: 
 

“It is rare indeed that people give. Most people guard and keep; they suppose that it is they themselves and what they identify with themselves that they are guarding and keeping, whereas what they are actually guarding and keeping is their system of reality and what they assume themselves to be. One can give nothing whatever without giving oneself -- that is to say, risking oneself. If one cannot risk oneself, then one is simply incapable of giving.” 

I wondered: in this community, who are the members of that rare group? Who are the givers? The risk-takers?

Based on my experiences working closely with our Communitas Ventures cohorts, over the past five years, I can confidently state that their members all fit Baldwin’s definition of those who give. They are risk-takers. Their dedication to improving education, health and wellness, and financial inclusion – in their communities and beyond them – is proof positive that they are among the rare. It is our privilege to work with them.

On December 14, we successfully hosted Pitch Night for Communitas Ventures Cohort 11. Twenty entrepreneurs pitched innovative ideas to a rapt and inspired audience. The evening showcased businesses like: MVP Swimmers, an organization dedicated to creating inclusive environments where new swimmers can develop important life skills; and Vibrnt Seeds, a business working to enhance food security and promote health and wellness in the Bronx. Pitch Night, our unique take on “demo day”, creates as much room for future opportunities as it does for in-the-moment celebration, at the culmination of a cohort’s 10+ week journey with us.

We achieved a crucial milestone earlier this year, when Heyground Harlem opened its doors. The physical space is a catalyst within our ecosystem: it is a place where ideas are kindled, partnerships forged, and businesses transformed. It is also the place where our raison d'être was solidified. We recognize that our position – at the intersection of the public, private, and academic sectors – empowers us to take on the role of the giver, the risk-taker, in partnership with social impact entrepreneurs.

As we move into 2024, Communitas America plans to enhance our focus on: 

• Amplifying our (hyper)local entrepreneurs’ perspectives and the solutions they are creating 
• Collaborating deeply with our partners, so that they understand the needs of our entrepreneurs, the impetus behind their innovations, and the high value of investment in social impact businesses 
• Doing our part to close the gap in economic mobility by improving the evidence- and data-driven aspects of our programs 

I would like to extend profound gratitude to the small, mighty Communitas America’s team (who have worked tirelessly to build our successes this year), to the alumni in Communitas Ventures Cohorts one through eleven (who have trusted us with their bold ideas and inspire our work daily), and to you (for your steadfast support on our journey together).

Wishing you very Happy Holidays and wonderful New Year.