Strength in Numbers
Swartz Center for Entrepreneurship WMBE Outreach Program
We are delivering a very "hands-on" program to support women and minority small businesses in two specific neighborhoods of Pittsburgh: Wilkinsburg and Homewood. We are working with small businesses that are women-owned and led and/or minority-owned and led in those zip codes. The companies will spend time at the Swartz Center for Entrepreneurship as well as in other venues in the communities of Wilkinsburg and Homewood receiving help to:
- Build their accounting and finance capacity
- Build their on-line presence through the use of websites and landing pages
- Address their ad-hoc business questions
The programming is free of charge for the entrepreneurs. After the initial programming - the companies will be supported by CMU alumni mentors that have experience in accounting, finance, and entrepreneurship as well as CMU students who are adept at business disciplines and the use of technology.
Meet the Companies!
Mission Statement
We are role model of CMU Swartz-led effective, efficient, human scaled, grass roots, results oriented, business consulting/counseling for women and minority owned businesses that empowers the owners to effectively become sustainably and financially successful in their businesses and personally, and generationally.
Engage with Us
If you are interested in partnering with us on this program or have questions please reach out to us:
Aleksandar Petkov - Swartz Center Program Manager
Sonya Ford - Swartz Center Program Manager
Christine Ferguson - Program Consultant
Donald Bonk - Program Consultant
Community Partners
Participating Companies
9Cafe
Soulful Carribean restaurant and lounge serving food through reusable and compostable containers.
A&M Healthcare Agency
Here at A&M Healthcare Agency, LLC it is our mission to efficiently provide client-centered, quality nursing from the heart. While maintaining the highest standards of care, we strive to approach our jobs with passion and commitment. We build trust and teamwork to continually facilitate n expanded array of growth strategies to meet and exceed our consumer expectations.
Alex's Pit Stop
Convenience store and family-friendly dine-in and take-out restaurant.
Campbell's Seafood Market
Coming soon - first fish market in Wilkinsburg.
Adrienne Moon
Michael Campbell
CodeJoy
We’ve created a live webinar studio that captures the essence of what it means to learn in a classroom. We combine multiple cameras, studio-quality video production, and thoughtful teaching to create an authentic classroom experience that you can join from anywhere. Services provided include interactive remote robotics & coding classes for students and educators.
Kelsey Derringer
Matt Chillbert
Cougar Life
Cougar Life is dedicated to the process of making natural clean burning candles & wax melts with 100% Soy. Candles' wicks are made of braided cotton containing no zinc, and all fragrances are Phthalate free. All body products are also Phthalate free and contain high quality oils and vitamins that leave you feel oh so refreshed.
J Koko Hauling
J KoKo Hauling LLC is a Dump Truck service company. Based in Pittsburgh, PA, our company is a veteran, minority and woman owned enterprise (MWBE) recognized by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) of Pittsburgh. Our goal is to become a primary hauling resource in Allegheny County and surrounding communities.
Miss Cassidy Creates
Miss Cassidy is an educator and kid's entertainer. Through her career in professional theatre, she has discovered that her absolute favorite role is playing pretend with kids and inspiring a desire to never stop learning! You can book Miss Cassidy for: Virtual Classes & Social Groups, Private Parties, Recorded Video Greetings, and One-on-One & Group Lessons.
The Sleeping Octopus
The revitalization of the three-store Yingling Mansion is part of the borough's growing renaissance. Today, the decor is both carefully curated and charmingly organic. A range of genres and styles — paintings, sculpture, mixed media from local artists grace the walls and tabletops, appearing, disappearing and reappearing as seasons and events change. The mansion currently is listed on Airbnb under its new moniker - The Sleeping Octopus
Soulful Finesse d.b.a Lulu's
“Healthy soul food” - Southern restaurant with an emphasis on healthy menu items.
TakeOut Team
We offer safe & speedy delivery and crucial concierge services to B2B and B2C customers in Pittsburgh's East End communities. We help customers gain full access to local product, customized services and entertainment experiences!
Tiffany's on Wood
Hair Stylist located on Wood Street with a variety of exceptional braiding services.
Una Biologicals
Una Biologicals is rooted in the belief that you deserve the best. Being the best at Una means being free from chemicals, additives, unnecessary preservatives, and artificial fragrances. To this end, we've created skin food luxury that nourishes your body & soul allowing you to feel good, look good, & actualize your happiest, healthiest self!
Fall 2021 Workshop Materials
Thank you to our Swartz Center Patrons
