Enterprise  to End Poverty

Business can 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

We’re calling on individuals, businesses, and philanthropy 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 the United States 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 and philanthropic investment, we risk losing the next generation of entrepreneurs—and the economic potential they bring.

Support the Fund Today

Attend the Enterprise to End Poverty Benefit Dinner

Support the Enterprise to End Poverty through sponsorship of the of the Enterprise to End Poverty Benefit Dinner on February 25th. All support at the Community Builder Level and above made prior to February 20th will include a benefit dinner ticket(s) and additional recognition.

Date: February 25, 2025, from 6-9 pm

Location: Medina (Maydan’s sister venue)

1328 Florida Ave NW

Washington DC 20009

Tickets available here.

 FAQs

  • 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.

  • 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

  • All fund supporters will have access to quarterly impact reports showcasing the businesses supported.

  • ✅ 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.