A coalition of Chicago-based CDFIs and business support organizations needed a digital platform to better connect micro-enterprises and small businesses with essential resources. The challenge was to create an intuitive, accessible solution that encouraged entrepreneurs—many unfamiliar with institutional funding—to engage while enabling seamless data-sharing among 80 service providers.
(approach)
We conducted surveys, focus groups, and co-design sessions to develop a user-friendly platform that balanced accessibility with robust data-sharing capabilities. By addressing historical trust gaps and refining the user experience, we ensured the platform met the needs of both entrepreneurs and service providers.
(RESULTS)
The revitalized platform improved engagement for diverse business owners and streamlined collaboration among service providers. With J.P. Morgan Chase’s Advancing Black Pathways Initiative as a key supporter, the project fostered a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in Chicago.
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