Finance
We provide access to capital and business development programs to help entrepreneurs thrive in historically underserved communities.
The Center’s goal is to support the growth and success of entrepreneurs from historically underserved communities who have businesses that stimulate and develop the local community and provide goods and services to the retail industry.
The Center funds entrepreneurial support organizations to help businesses increase their readiness and revenue. We’re also activating community-led programs, research, tools and proven models that support economic empowerment and mobility.
We established this pillar in 2020, recognizing that only 5% of Black Americans hold business equity — a key driver of wealth for families — compared to 15% of White Americans. Over the last few years, we’ve worked in ways that have helped us invest in areas that uplift all communities.
Grantee Spotlight
Watson Institute
A grant from Walmart supports Watson’s Retail Readiness Entrepreneurship program, which helps create opportunities for 25 agricultural-focused entrepreneurs from urban and rural cities across the U.S. The program provides entrepreneurs with training, certifications, mentorships, financial stipends and other resources to help entrepreneurs become retail-ready and scale their ventures, while creating jobs and positively impact their communities.
