Enterprise to End Poverty
We’re calling on business to help get it done.
Strengthening Communities Through Entrepreneurship
Small businesses are the backbone of strong, self-sustaining communities. But right now, many hard working people are struggling with fewer resources and increasing economic pressures, inhibiting their ability to start or grow business opportunities. Government aid on its own cannot create lasting prosperity. Real resilience comes from supporting entrepreneurship.
Enterprise to End Poverty Calling on Businesses to Support Local Entrepreneurs
This is the moment for businesses to lead.
We’re calling on businesses, professionals, and corporate partners to invest directly in small business success through the Enterprise to End Poverty Fund. This initiative supports Building Markets’ work to provide market connections, business education, mentorship, and financial resources to entrepreneurs. We work in Colombia, Türkiye, Iraq, Myanmar - and soon the US - to ensure that small businesses not only survive, but can be a thriving source of financial security so that people can build rooted lives.
We are seeking to raise $100k in 100 days.
Why is this urgent?
Communities rely on small businesses to drive job creation and economic growth. Yet today:
Many small businesses struggle to access funding needed to start or expand.
Key grants and programs face cuts or delays, putting critical support services at risk.
Without private-sector investment, we risk losing the next generation of entrepreneurs—and the economic potential they bring.
Business Sponsorship Opportunities
FAQs
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$1,000 – Community Builder
Name recognition on website
Access to quarterly impact reports showcasing the businesses supported
$2,500 – Growth Partner
All benefits of the $1,000 level
Logo featured on campaign materials
Recognition in campaign press release at at Medina Benefit Dinner
One ticket to the Medina x Maydān Benefit Dinner
$5,000 – Impact Partner
All benefits of the $1,000 level
Invitation to quarterly impact calls
Exclusive access to impact updates and investment opportunities through Building Markets’ Working Capital Fund
Two tickets to the Medina x Maydān Benefit Dinner
$10,000 – Leadership Partner
All benefits of the $5,000 level
Exclusive volunteer opportunities, such as mentoring or speaking at small business workshops
Private stakeholder briefings on small business impact
Highlighted recognition in annual report
Four tickets to the Medina x Maydān Benefit Dinner
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Building Markets’ experience demonstrates that investing in local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is a powerful driver of job creation and economic resilience in low-income communities. By connecting entrepreneurs to new opportunities, Building Markets has helped secure over a billion dollars in contracts for SMEs, leading to the creation of tens of thousands of local jobs. This approach not only strengthens community wealth but also fosters innovation, skills development, and long-term stability—helping to break cycles of poverty through locally driven, sustainable growth.
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Building Markets is rigorously committed to evidence. Across our programs we collect data that measures:
✔ How many entrepreneurs are launching and scaling their businesses
✔ Job creation and sustained growth in local communities
✔ The power of the network of small businesses and buyers supporting one another✔ The livelihoods of small business owners and their employees
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All fund supporters will have access to quarterly impact reports showcasing the businesses supported.
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✅ Mentor an Entrepreneur – Share your knowledge to help small businesses succeed.
✅ Host Networking & Training Events – Connect business leaders with emerging entrepreneurs.
✅ Advocate for Pro-Small Business Policies – Use your voice to push for policies that support business-led economic development.Email partnerships@buildingmarkets.org for opportunities.