How Local Government Leaders Can Unlock Funding for Small Businesses

The City as Capital Convener: How Local Government Leaders Can Unlock Funding for Small BusinessesSmall businesses are the lifeblood of local economies, but access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers to their growth and resilience. In this episode, adapted from a Living Cities webinar, we explore how local governments can play a powerful role in strengthening small business ecosystems by serving as capital conveners.Our panelists share practical insights from Miami, Detroit, and the broader field on how cities can bring together public, private, philanthropic, and community partners to unlock funding, build stronger support systems, and create more equitable pathways for entrepreneurs.Featuring Twaquilla Eatman, Community Partnership Manager for the Department of Human Services for the City of Miami; Brittany Morgan, Senior Director of Economic Resilience for The Miami Foundation; Dr. Marlo Rencher, Chief of Neighborhood Economic Development & Small Business for the City of Detroit Mayor’s Office; and Norris Williams, Associate Director of Business Ownership at Living Cities, this conversation offers actionable ideas for city leaders working to make capital more accessible to the small businesses that power their communities.