GLOBAL CITIZENS CARE FOR UNDERPRIVILEGED AND REFUGEE EMPOWER

Published purpose

Based in Hamilton, Empowerment Squared is a registered Canadian charitable organization dedicated to empowering newcomer, racialized and marginalized youth and communities. Empowerment Squared is recommended for a non-repayable contribution of up to $1,922,500 to enhance its services and build capacity to support Black business owners and entrepreneurs in the greater Hamilton and Windsor areas. Through the proposed project, Empowerment Squared will expand its organizational capacity and service offering, establish a consortium of professional services providers, mentors, facilitators and community advisors to offer networking events (in person and/or virtual), deliver professional development and skills training to Black business owners and entrepreneurs, including a customized matchmaking and mentorship program, a custom designed business essentials curriculum and targeted seminars, and create a Digital Hub to showcase success stories, and promote entrepreneurs in Black communities. The project has broad community support, including public and private funders, and is expected to leverage the participation of over 150 volunteers. The project will expand the organization’s reach through collaborations with new partners, and will strengthen the capacity of the Black entrepreneurship ecosystem in Ontario and Canada.