The Problem

New American(immigrant and refugee) small business owners in Salt Lake City, Utah faced barriers to communication with established business communities keeping them from access to capital and collaborative opportunities with larger markets.

Why Was This A Problem
Cities that view underserved communities as assets instead of liabilities have stronger more resilient economies; stronger relationships matter.

 

Solution

Founded in 2017 by the Founders of SLC Human-Centered Design, The New American Dream Lab (NADL) has been a platform for New Americans(former refugees and immigrants) in Salt Lake City, Utah to learn entrepreneurial skills and to present their businesses to a participating audience. The goal of the yearly event is to empower New American entrepreneurs and introduce the Salt Lake City business and the broader community to diverse small business owners who help to create a dynamic business landscape in Utah.

NADL is a partnership between the Microbusiness Connection Center, Women's Business Center of Utah, Salt Lake County, Utah State University, and the International Rescue Committee.

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Outcomes

NADL has funded dozens of business owners and continues to promote New Americans to this day.