Bank of America significantly increases DEC network mission with $120,000 donation to Entrepreneurs of Color Fund » Dallas Innovates

DEC Network has received a major boost in its efforts to support local entrepreneurs of color in Dallas-Fort Worth, thanks to a $120,000 grant from Bank of America. This partnership aims to support people in communities who lack the opportunities and resources to turn great business ideas into reality.

jennifer chandler

Jennifer Chandler, president of Bank of America Dallas, said the DEC network takes an innovative approach to fostering entrepreneurship, especially in traditionally underserved communities. Told.

“The DEC Network has an incredible ability to think creatively and strategically about entrepreneurship development, especially for under-resourced communities,” Chandler said in a statement.

Chandler said Bank of America's mission and resources and DEC's comprehensive approach to supporting entrepreneurs is an “opportunity to see dreams come true.”

Bank of America said its philanthropy in North Texas is part of a broader effort to promote economic mobility and improve the economic well-being of communities. The bank said it has provided $27 million to organizations in North Texas since 2018 and continues to serve as a pioneer in supporting positive change.

Mr. Chandler said the bank “has believed in The DEC's vision from the beginning and is excited to see how the Entrepreneur of Color Fund will enrich our business environment.”

DEC Network CEO Bill Chinn says the nonprofit organization wants to help all entrepreneurs have a fair chance at success, regardless of their starting point. Chin emphasizes the importance of collaboration in meeting community needs.

“Together, we are determined to meet the pressing needs of our communities, especially in an evolving economic climate,” Chin said in the announcement, adding that nonprofits like the DEC Network He said philanthropic grants and fundraising play an important role in sustaining it. .

From left: DEC Network CEO Bill Chinn and board member Tristen Wilson, Frost community development director. Tim Hill, Chairman of the Board of Trustees; [Photo: The DEC Network]

DEC Network is known for its dedication to supporting Dallas-Fort Worth entrepreneurs through their business journeys, and the Entrepreneurs of Color Fund is dedicated to closing disparities in access to resources and providing financial support. We see it as a foundational initiative aimed at promoting inclusivity.

The Entrepreneur of Color Fund initiative is in the process of launching, according to DEC Network Partnerships Coordinator Kamryn Byrd. Applications could open as early as April, she said. The website is currently under construction.

DEC Network (formerly known as the Dallas Entrepreneur Center) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering and supporting Dallas-Fort Worth's entrepreneurial community. Founded in 2013, DEC Network provides a variety of resources for startups and entrepreneurs, including coworking space, training and mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and access to capital.

The Dallas-based nonprofit aims to foster economic growth and job creation by fostering a vibrant ecosystem in which entrepreneurs can grow. Through a variety of initiatives and partnerships, we are committed to supporting entrepreneurs at every stage from ideation to scale.