Transforming lives,

Empowering Communities.

Uniting businesses for lasting change

Our Strength is our connections

Join us in a powerful journey of transformation. We are dedicated to uplifting our community by passionately partnering with the younger generation.

Together, we sow the seeds of change through education, mentorship, and community engagement, fostering a brighter future for all. Be a catalyst for lasting impact – your involvement fuels the potential of our youth and strengthens the heart of our communities.

We promote a community-centered
approach to
economic inclusion.

Simply put, we think it
takes a village
to accomplish our mission.

Scope

Community-centered economic inclusion invests in select sub-geographies within cities that have the greatest potential to make a transformative impact.

Scale

Community-centered economic inclusion programs help healthier communities, economic development, workforce development, and capacity-building efforts within underinvested communities, while connecting these communities to regional economic opportunity.

integration

Being civic minded and showing how to gain institutionalized access to resources in the city, county and private sector.

Mentorship program

Junior High Schools need to be places where a student will have contact with older people who have contact with older people who have vital lives of their own and who are themselves, authentic human beings.

Together we will focus on weekly topics that highlight character building and skills useful for success in junior high and beyond (the value of community, overcoming adversity, attendance, study skills, etc.)

the living library

Just as we cannot judge a book by its cover, we must learn not to judge others by what appears on the outside. It is important to take time to have conversations that open doors to real connections.

The Living Library is similar to a library full of books – but rather than checking out physical books to read, students will “check out” time with a living person.

inspire

Youth entrepreneurial program

There are countless reasons why people decide at a certain moment in their lives to start their own business. Some see a good business opportunity, others feel challenged by several issues. They may have an education and a set of skills but cannot find employment. The lack of jobs among young people has consequences on their health, wellbeing, and future. Hence, one of the ways to get young people into the labor market is through youth entrepreneurship.

Not only does it provide employment prospects to inexperienced youth, but it has an impact on economic growth through new jobs, increased competition, and innovation.

incubate

jba venture hub

Our focus is on providing robust entrepreneurial support, with a clear emphasis on serving as a haven for entrepreneurs. This commitment extends to our strategic partnerships and collaborations with key anchors and every facet of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Our approach is inclusive, reflecting the rich diversity of our region – spanning geography and demographics – as we actively cultivate an expansive network encompassing high-growth trailblazers, young innovators, and dedicated social entrepreneurs from across the entire region.

Our Partners

Thank you for your generosity!

If you would prefer, you can make an impact by sending a check made out to the ‘Jonesboro Business Association‘ to:

361 Southwest Dr. Jonesboro, Arkansas 72401