Building a Thriving Economic Ecosystem
Prior to the 1970’s North Omaha had a rich history as a vibrant economic hub for Black residents, especially along North 24th Street. However, decades of racial conflict, segregation, and targeted attacks have significantly disrupted this once-thriving community.
The lingering effects include:
Limited Capital Investments
Black-owned and led businesses face a severe lack of financial support.
Inadequate Support
Limited access to technical assistance hampers the operations of Black-owned businesses.
Market Exclusion
These businesses often struggle to find acceptance as viable providers of goods and services.
Unequal Contracting Opportunities
Disparities in competing for government and private sector contracts persist.
While the Black residents continue to strive for progress and self-improvement, many of these historical challenges remain unresolved.
Omaha currently ranks first among American cities for the number of African Americans living with low income. To address this reality, we need strategic investments in the community's emerging businesses and professionals.
That’s why we exist.
Our Approach to Revitalization
At POC Collaborative Community Resource Center, we believe in the power of ecosystem building as a transformative economic development strategy. By fostering inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystems, particularly in North Omaha, we can do our part to address and reduce longstanding wealth disparities across the state and country.
Our Guiding Concepts
Placemaking is about creating quality spaces that promote people's health, happiness, and well-being.
Entrepreneurship is a key driver of economic growth and innovation.
Leadership Development is about nurturing individuals who can drive change and support community goals.
The vital synergy between placemaking, entrepreneurship, and leadership development plays a crucial role in enhancing the health and vitality of communities, especially those of color.
We’re striving to achieve:
Economic Resilience
POC Collaborative Community Resource Center seeks to foster a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem and create vibrant public spaces where communities can become more economically resilient.
Social Cohesion
We understand that placemaking and leadership development efforts often bring people together, strengthening community bonds and fostering a sense of belonging.
Inclusive Growth
We’re focusing on inclusive strategies, particularly in North Omaha, where these intersecting efforts ensure that all community members benefit from economic growth and development, leading to more equitable and healthy communities
Here’s how we can help you — tailored Support for Omaha’s For-Profit and Nonprofit Businesses
By assessing each organization's unique needs, budget constraints, and operational capacity, we’ll develop solutions that drive sustainable growth and economic development for our communities.
Whether you're looking to expand your reach or optimize your operations, we’re here to meet you where you are and help you achieve your goals.
Six Steps to Scale Your Impact
To best assist our community, we use a six step process to clearly understand the opportunities, challenges, and future vision they are working toward. Our process is outlined below.
Discover
Our community thrives on strong relationships, and we believe in moving at the speed of trust. We take the time to listen and learn, ensuring we understand the mission and goals of the individuals and organizations that we work with.
Plan
We will co-create a roadmap based on your organization’s vision. This plan will outline key milestones, required resources, and contingency strategies to ensure we are prepared for any challenges.
Assess
Let’s collaborate to evaluate the needs of your funders and identify your nonprofit’s starting point. This thorough assessment sets the stage for effective support.
Implementation
With a solid plan in hand, we shift into action mode. We dedicate the time and energy needed to drive progress, maintain momentum, and achieve set deadlines.
Revise
Adaptability is key. We periodically review and adjust our approach, ensuring we stay focused and aligned with your evolving goals.
Celebrate
Every success, big or small, deserves recognition. We celebrate your achievements and then gear up for the next phase of your journey!
We Have What We Need
At the heart of our mission is an asset-based approach to community development. At POC Collaborative Resource Center, we believe in leveraging the strengths and resources within our community to drive positive change. By identifying, organizing, and deploying these existing assets, we bring individuals, associations, and institutions together to achieve shared goals.
What We Offer:
Support for Individuals and Teams:
Tailored assistance to empower both personal and group endeavors.
Professional and Social Connections:
A network that fosters collaboration and community engagement.
Centralized Expertise and Consulting:
Access to specialists across various fields, streamlined for efficiency and convenience.
