Small businesses play a critical role in cities. They create jobs, drive innovation, and provide one of the few pathways for households to build wealth. But creating and growing a small business is challenging, and small business owners face hurdles to survival and growth. City leaders can help small businesses thrive by deploying effective program and policy interventions. 

Join the Urban Institute and Bloomberg Associates for a discussion of a new guide that highlights emerging approaches to small business–focused economic development. This webinar will bring together city leaders, economic development professionals, and researchers to share insights on how local leaders can support small business growth and build more resilient and inclusive local economies.

Opening Remarks: 

• Brett Theodos, Director, Center for Local Finance and Growth, Urban Institute 

Presentation: 

• Javier Marin, Director of Economic Opportunity, City of Tampa
• Todd Rufo, Economic Development Lead, Bloomberg Associates
• Dan Teles, Principal Research Associate, Center for Local Finance and Growth, Urban Institute
• Brodie Turner, Assistant Director Economy and Culture, London Borough of Lambeth

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals to engage fully. Please email [email protected] if you require any accommodations or have any questions about this event. 

This event is supported by programmatic funding for the Center for Local Finance and Growth, a knowledge hub to drive the community economic development and mission finance sectors forward. For more on Urban’s funding policies, go to urban.org/about/organizational-principles.