Project Uplift A grassroots community-based entrepreneur development approach

Project Uplift Combines the resources of the Institute for Social & Economic Development’s Iowa subsidiary, ISED Ventures, with resources of Lutheran Services in Iowa and the Evangelical Lutheran Churches in Iowa. ISED specialized in microenterprise and works with low-moderate income residents. ISED’s mission is to strengthen individuals and communities through poverty alleviation.

ISED Ventures and LSI ISED Ventures provides small business training, counseling, and access to business capital. LSI and Churches provide physical classroom space, business incubator space, volunteer/mentor network, and community recognition. LSI recognized as social ministry arm of ELCA (refugee, adoption, substance abuse, family sustainability).

Why Project Uplift New approach to community entrepreneur development ISED, LSI and Churches sought to create jobs and build a strong economic base to create sustainable communities. Ecumenical – other denominations and community organizations involved

What does Project Uplift involve? Small business classes (10 weeks, develop business plan, includes consultation of business advisor) Pilot class in Storm Lake October 19 at St. Mark Lutheran Church Includes feasibility assessment, marketing, bookkeeping, taxes, access to markets, use of the Internet, business financing, and surviving year one.

Microenterprise creates jobs Self-employment to five or fewer employees Supplements wages or reduces need for public assistance Microentrepreneurs today become the Cabellas of tomorrow (John Ruan, Marvin Pomerantz)

Next steps Social investment Additional pilots – Waterloo, Des Moines, Sheldon, Council Bluffs, Pomeroy Link to other asset development strategies (Earned Income Tax Credit, Individual Development Accounts) Link to other economic development strategies