Economic Development
Driving Generational Wealth and Local Prosperity
The Economic Development Division powers entrepreneurship, workforce advancement, and economic mobility. Through flagship initiatives like BE³, the HOPE Small Business Expo, and our Workforce Development programs, we offer training, mentorship, capital access, and business incubation. By championing local talent and building sustainable infrastructure for success, we cultivate a thriving economic ecosystem rooted in equity, innovation, and community ownership.
ProGrams & Featured Projects
Small Business Development Program
Strong communities are fueled by strong local businesses. Our Small Business Division exists to support entrepreneurs — from idea to expansion — by strengthening capacity, improving performance, and building long-term sustainability.
Through strategic programs, collaborative partnerships, and peer-based learning environments, we equip microenterprises, solopreneurs, and small businesses with the tools they need to grow, generate positive cash flow, and contribute to a thriving local economy.
When small businesses succeed, communities flourish.
Featured project for Small business:
The BE3 Program
BE3 is our signature entrepreneurial development initiative designed to help small businesses grow with clarity, confidence, and community.
We believe entrepreneurs should not have to build alone. BE3 provides structured support that combines practical business education, mentorship, and collaborative learning environments to help business owners strengthen operations and move toward sustainable growth.
Through BE3, entrepreneurs access:
Business Incubation – Guided support to refine business models, strengthen systems, improve financial management, and increase revenue stability.
The Shepherd’s Program – Focused mentorship and accountability to develop leadership capacity and strategic execution.
Business Series & Conferences – Curated training experiences that offer actionable insight and meaningful business connections.
BE3 is designed to increase business capacity, improve performance, and position entrepreneurs for long-term sustainability and expansion — contributing to stronger local economies in the process.
WOrkforce Development Program
The Workforce Development Program equips individuals at every stage of their employment journey — including those who are unemployed, underemployed, or facing employment barriers — with the skills, training, and professional support needed to secure sustainable, well-paying careers. Through strategic partnerships with employers, nonprofits, and certification providers, Center of Hope CDC connects participants to high-demand career pathways and growth industries. This initiative emphasizes vocational training, job readiness, career advancement, and long-term employment success, positioning participants not only for job placement, but for upward mobility and lasting economic stability.
Featured project for Workforce:
The Hope Professional COllective
The Hope Professional Collective (HPC) is a dynamic community of professionals and entrepreneurs committed to growth, collaboration, and shared advancement.
Designed as both an affinity group and leadership network, HPC creates space for innovation, mentorship, and meaningful connection across industries. We believe professional success is not meant to be pursued in isolation. By bringing together emerging talent and seasoned leaders, the Collective fosters a culture of mutual uplift, accountability, and strategic collaboration.
Through curated gatherings, professional development experiences, and signature events such as Walking in Purpose, members are encouraged to clarify their vision, strengthen their leadership capacity, and align their work with long-term impact.
HPC reflects our broader commitment to economic empowerment by cultivating a network of capable, values-driven changemakers. As members grow in confidence, competence, and influence, they contribute not only to their own advancement, but to the strength and resilience of the wider community.