Regions Bank Introduces Tuition-Free Business Development Program in Miami

Regions Bank Introduces Tuition-Free Business Development Program in Miami

In an exciting development for small business owners in South Florida, Regions Bank is introducing a tuition-free business development program in Miami. Known as the Inner City Capital Connections (ICCC) program, this initiative aims to support growth-oriented businesses in urban or economically underserved areas by providing them with essential resources and expert guidance.

The ICCC program is a comprehensive business training initiative designed to help small businesses achieve long-term success. It offers top-tier training from nationally recognized experts, customized business coaching, marketing assistance, and follow-up digital training. This program is part of the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC), a nonprofit founded by Harvard Business School Professor Dr. Michael Porter. ICIC focuses on strengthening communities through education and private-sector investment.

Chris Cruzpino, Miami-Dade market executive for Regions Bank, emphasized the importance of the program, stating, “This program gives more entrepreneurs the resources and tools to be successful and connects local small businesses with national experts on company growth. That’s why Regions is bringing ICCC to Miami as part of our commitment to create more inclusive prosperity. When these businesses flourish, so does our community.”

Since its inception in 2005, ICCC has helped over 5,800 businesses across the country, raising more than $2.4 billion in capital and creating over 26,000 jobs. The program’s success lies in its ability to offer executive-level business education to entrepreneurs who might not have the time or resources to receive such training through traditional means. The ICCC events have featured instructors from prestigious institutions such as Harvard University, Dartmouth, and New York University, ensuring participants receive top-notch education and insights.

The program is scheduled to culminate locally with an intensive, all-day business education and coaching session on October 8, 2024. Interested business owners are encouraged to apply early, as space is limited and slots may fill up before the application deadline on September 13, 2024. Financial support from Regions Bank and co-sponsors makes this program tuition-free for qualified companies.

ICCC Director Diego Portillo Mazal highlighted the program’s impact, stating, “ICCC has a proven record of empowering and uplifting diverse entrepreneurs. The teachings help build a more sustainable small-business ecosystem and support further prosperity for more people and communities in South Florida.”

For more information about the ICCC program and to apply, business owners can visit the ICIC website.