Minority Business Initiative

Minority Business Initiative (MBI)

Supporting Hoosier MBEs and SEDI-owned Businesses

Our Mission

The Indiana Minority Business Initiative’s (MBI) mission is to support Hoosier minority business enterprises – that are owned or operated by socially & economically disadvantaged individuals (SEDI) – by helping them navigate entrepreneur resources, services, and networks, increase their business competitiveness through certifications and contract support, and develop their businesses through capacity-building technical assistance initiatives. The MBI aims to provide direct assistance and referrals to minority business enterprises as they start, grow, and sustain in Indiana – all while contributing collaboratively and meaningfully to the statewide entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The MBI does not aim to duplicate the efforts of existing resource providers within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Instead, the initiative will provide targeted assistance for historically disadvantaged entrepreneurs and business owners and create an on-ramp to the ecosystem of business resources and opportunities in Indiana.

MBI Services

Ecosystem Navigation

Helping minority business owners better navigate the growing ecosystem of entrepreneurial resources, services, and networks.

Business Development

Helping minority businesses build their capacity and competitiveness for certification and contract capital.

Capacity Building

Helping minority businesses grow, expand, and retain their businesses and jobs through advising and technical assistance initiatives.

About the Fund

MBI Programs

Get Certified Program

Business certification accelerator for minority, woman, and veteran owned business

Certification Readiness 1:1 Technical Advising

Helping minority business enterprises understand their unique pathway to certification and successful contracting

Certification Readiness Lunch and Learns

Monthly virtual presentations featuring SMEs and key topics on certification

Get Connected with MBI

Whether you've just put your business idea on paper for the first time, or you're looking for investment opportunities for the latest tech innovation, the MBI is here to serve you.

Complete the online intake form to get started on your journey with MBI today.

Get Connected

Other Resources

SSBCI

The SSBCI supports underserved entrepreneurs and small businesses with loans for operating capital

ElevateME

Venture capital for minority and women founders and innovators

Entrepreneurship @ The IEDC

Additional resources your small business needs for success

More Information

The Indiana Minority Business Initiative Center is operated by the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) and is funded, in part, by the U.S. Department of Commerce through the Minority Business Development Agency. The Indiana Minority Business Initiative Center proudly serves all minority business enterprises owned or operated by socially & economically disadvantaged individuals (SEDI.)

Become a Lender

Still have questions?

Please reach out to our team at info@mbi.iedc.in.gov.