Welcome to The U

The U is taking time to revamp

It's been a LONGGGG year and we decided its time to make some transformative changes to elevate the experience for our community. Stay tuned. We will be back 2024 with exciting new changes.

WHO WE ARE?

We are an Urban Entrepreneur Support Organization

& we develop businesses in the most culturally competent way.


We envision a world where systematic oppression is not an obstacle for Black and Brown businesses. We fulfill this vision by bridging the access gap ensuring awareness of resources, providing culturally competent education, facilitating impactful collaboration and engagement for Owner-Operated, Lifestyle businesses and start-ups run by People of Color. Because mental health can be a barrier to launching successful businesses in the Black and Brown communities, The U has created a safe space to ask the questions some are too afraid to ask in fear of feeling inferior or inadequate. We understand standard business training is just not enough and strive to offer all the needed ancillary support to elevate small businesses as vital contributors to our economy. Black and Brown entrepreneurship requires as much support and funding as any other venture which is why providing this space where urban entrepreneurs can operate above systematic barriers is so important.


Available Now to Purchase

LAUNCH UP E-BOOK

Unleash your entrepreneurial spirit with LaunchUP, the ultimate guide to starting and growing a successful business. From idea validation to funding, marketing strategies to team building, this comprehensive ebook has everything you need to launch your venture with confidence.

SHOP NOW

Check Out Our Trainings & Events

Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat

30

31

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

1

2

3

370+


BUSINESSES WE'VE DIRECTLY

SERVED/CONSULTED TO ENHANCE SUSTAINABILITY

93%


OF OUR ENGAGED SMALL BUSINESSES ARE RAN BY PEOPLE OF COLOR

200+


BUSINESSES STRATEGICALLY INCREASED BRAND AWARENESS & VISIBILITY

9


BUILT 9 REPUTABLE PROGRAMS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP CURRICULUM IN THE MIDWEST

Check Out What People Say About Us

"The Urban Accelerator really changed my life. They say everything you are looking for in life is right outside of your comfort zone. What a perfect way to prepare you for business than to do just that. Ski, LoLo, and Ron create a perfect team and feed off of each other in a way that makes you really grasp what it takes to run your own business. I would DEFINITELY recommend The U for all of your business needs.”

Le', Columbus

This review will never be enough to describe the impact The U has had on me already. To be able to be given the keys to success is invaluable. Ron, Lolo & Ski have been gracious with their time and resource (and money), and have given us a space to reach our goals. The gap between us and success is always going to be information. This place gives you that info. I was apart of the first bootcamp and all weekend, they stretched our minds. They had us thinking outside of the box and allowed us to apply the teachings immediately. I appreciate them and look forward to being a success story for them.” 

Darnell, Columbus

“I was apart of their Urban Accelerator Bootcamp and I was blown away by their professionalism and their expertise about building a business from just about every different vertical. I took home a lifetime of information and have the tools plus the resources needed to navigate a successful business along with a plan of action. They created a warm welcoming environment for us to build community and learn the principles of creating a solid foundation. I recommend you check them out!”

Jasmine, Columbus