In 2004, Interise was established by providing the tools, resources and networks for small business owners to grow. With meetings twice a month during the StreetWise MBA Program, entrepreneurs create a customized 3 year strategic growth action plan with realistic steps on how to grow. Interise graduates learn how to improve leadership skills, hire the right staff, cut costs, do business with other graduates, get approved for loans and much more. All graduates also receive a certificate from Interise and Boston University for completing the program and they join a network of over 3000 small business owners nationwide. “We want to work with and surround ourselves with business owners that are game changers and who go beyond trying to make payroll and really want to make a difference in their community.” Bernard Johnson, Interise’s Director of Program Operations.
Interise has a proven track record with their award winning StreetWise MBA Program. Interise stimulates economic revitalization in lower income communities and provides a diverse group of small business owners with entrepreneurial education, new networks, new business resources and access to markets. The Interise community creates jobs, grows businesses and develops community leaders. The latest impact report of Interise graduates showed 57% have added new jobs, 68% have increased revenue, 80% are in touch with fellow graduates and peer groups and job creation is 8X faster than the private sector.
Giving back to the community is also important to the team at Interise. They volunteer with Community Cooks, providing a meal once a month for at-risk youth at Bridge over Troubled Waters located in Boston. The Interise staff of 22 full-time workers has also volunteered with Cradles to Crayons. Interise is also an active Chamber member and has participated at the 2016 Women’s Forum. They also strongly encourage program graduates to be active members in their communities. Interise aims to give back to the community and create growth in underserved cities.
In 2014, Interise was honored with the Gold Stevie award during which it expanded to 26 states and 32 cities across North America. Interise now works with twelve partners throughout the country to deliver its curriculum and has reached 511 small business owners in 60 communities; cumulatively, the organization has reached over 3,000 small business owners. In June 2016, Interise received certification for the WNPO: Woman Non-Profit Organization, which certifies qualified companies that are woman-controlled non-profit organizations. Internal growth also contributed to the organization’s momentum, with the addition of six department managers, four new board members and the formation of a research department purposed with the examination and sharing of insights collected from over ten years of program delivery, operations and systematic program evaluation data.
Being part of The One SouthCoast Chamber of Commerce embodies the commitment of the business community to the New Bedford regional area. It facilitates and brings businesses together to unite in building a thriving base for residents, visitors and employers.
Applications are now being accepted for the fall 2016-17 program; call to schedule a qualifying interview. Contact Elizabeth Howe, South Coast Program Manager: 774-473-3911/ehowe@interise.org