The Harlem Community Enterprise Acceleration Program
The Harlem Community Enterprise Acceleration Program (HCEAP) empowers local entrepreneurs, small business owners, and social enterprises in Harlem and Upper Manhattan with essential skills in financial management, marketing, and technology know-how to accelerate business growth.
Program Overview
This no-cost summer program, offered by Tamer Institute Executive Education, provides training, peer support, networking opportunities, pro bono assistance, and advisors drawn from the Columbia Business School and University community.
Key Program Topics:
- financial management and analysis;
- digital marketing strategies using social media, tech- and AI-enabled tools;
- technology-needs assessment, including designing a tech bundle, analytics and metrics, payment systems, CRMs, POS, and apps;
- legal guidance on entities, agreements, contracts, and trademarks; and
- peer-based learning and coaching to develop optimization and growth plans.
All materials costs and catering for in-person sessions are provided at no cost.
Program Impact
Certificate of Completion: Participants who successfully complete the program will receive a certificate from Columbia Business School.
Pro Bono Consulting: Connect with an MBA student consulting team to help your business grow. Columbia’s Small Business Consulting Program, and Community Entrepreneurship Fellowship teams, available in the fall and spring semesters, offer customized assistance in areas such as financial management, marketing, strategy, operations, design, and technology.
Tech Development Support: Collaborate with tech developers from Justice Through Code fellows, to enhance your website and develop and implement innovative tech solutions.
Legal Referrals: Access legal support from Columbia Law School’s Entrepreneurship and Community Development Clinic and other pro bono legal providers for specific legal issues.
Networking Opportunities: Join a community of like-minded entrepreneurs, small business owners, and social enterprises to foster valuable connections and collaborations.
Flexible Learning: Our program is designed to fit your busy schedule, offering both in-person (at Columbia Business School) and online (Zoom) sessions. Over the course of three weeks in the summer, participants should plan to participate in a total of 10 sessions, each lasting 2-3 hours (including a catered break for in-person sessions). This structure allows for an immersive learning experience while accommodating other commitments.
Target Audience: Entrepreneurs, small businesses, and social enterprises located in Harlem, Upper Manhattan, and South Bronx that have 1-100 employees (including the owner); operating for at least 12 months; and are generating revenues of at least $100K annually from customers. Participants must be able to attend in-person sessions at our campus: 645 West 130th Street, New York, NY 10027.
Procurement Connections: Entrepreneurs, small businesses, and social enterprises offering products or services needed by Columbia University can receive assistance to register as an official Columbia Vendor.
Stay Connected and Empower Your Business
Express your interest: Let us know if you're interested in the Harlem Community Enterprise Acceleration Program. Your feedback will help us tailor the program to meet your needs.
Additional resources: Sign up for access to valuable resources designed to help your enterprise thrive:
- Small Business and Social Venture Resources: Explore a curated collection of tools, guides, and templates to support your business growth.
- Video Content: Gain insights from expert advice, success stories, and practical tips online.
- Procurement With Columbia University: Locally owned firms may be eligible for the CU Grow Program, offered by University Facilities and Operations.
- Columbia Neighbors' Shop & Dine Local Directory: Locally-owned restaurants, stores, and other businesses can be listed for free in this online directory.
- Retail Pop-up Opportunity: Local/small businesses that specialize in upcycled clothing, newly constructed sustainable apparel, or unique craft goods in New York City can apply here to participate for free in a new pop-up market at Columbia University’s Lee C. Bollinger Forum.
Immediate Assistance and Counseling
Harlem and Upper Manhattan small business owners who need urgent support can request appointments and quick assistance through the NY Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) network or by requesting a NYC SCORE mentor.