What to Expect at The ABLE Foundation's 4-Week Business Accelerator Series

Building the Next Generation of Black Business Leaders

The ABLE Foundation is proud to launch its inaugural Business Accelerator Series, a free 4-week intensive program designed to equip aspiring and early-stage Black entrepreneurs in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to build sustainable businesses.

Running from April 4 through May 2, 2026, this program is part of ABLE's Business & Economic Advancement pillar, one of five core pillars driving our mission to empower individuals and communities to shape their future.

Why a Business Accelerator for the Black Community?

Access to capital, mentorship, and professional networks remains one of the most significant barriers facing Black entrepreneurs. Studies consistently show that Black-owned businesses receive less than 2% of venture capital funding, and many promising entrepreneurs lack the strategic guidance needed to scale their ideas into viable enterprises.

The ABLE Business Accelerator Series was created to directly address these gaps. By bringing together proven business leaders, investors, and community builders, we are creating a space where aspiring entrepreneurs can learn, connect, and accelerate their journey.

What You Will Learn Over 4 Weeks

Each week of the series features a different expert speaker and a focused topic designed to build on the previous session. Here is what participants can expect:

Week 1 focuses on foundations of entrepreneurship and identifying your value proposition. Week 2 dives into funding strategies, including grants, loans, and venture capital pathways specifically available to Black-owned businesses. Week 3 covers operations, scaling, and building sustainable business models. Week 4 features a mentor speed-dating event, connecting participants directly with experienced business leaders for one-on-one guidance.

Featured Speakers

We are thrilled to feature an incredible lineup of speakers including Kiante Bush, McKeever Conwell, and ABLE Founder Andra Howard, each bringing deep expertise in entrepreneurship, venture capital, and organizational leadership. These are not theoretical presentations. These are practitioners who have built businesses, funded companies, and created real impact in the community.

Who Should Attend?

This program is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs who have a business idea but need help getting started, early-stage business owners looking to refine their strategy, college students exploring entrepreneurship as a career path, and professionals considering a transition to business ownership. The program is free and open to all, though it is specifically designed to serve the Black community in the DMV area.

How to Get Involved

Visit our Business & Economic Advancement page to learn more about the series and register. Space is limited, so we encourage early registration. If you are a business leader interested in serving as a mentor during Week 4, please reach out to us at info@ABLEtheFoundation.org.

The ABLE Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in National Harbor, Maryland, dedicated to empowering communities through bold action, collaboration, and transformational programs across five pillars: Business & Economic Advancement, Creative & Cultural Impact, Education & Development, Health & Wellness, and Justice & Equity.