Our Premier Partners

FAQ

Why did you choose Frederick Douglass as inspiration for EDLI?
We chose Frederick Douglass because of his belief in substantive dialogue - engaging deeper - to create alliances and connections that help businesses go beyond the status quo. His creed was unapologetic individualism and free enterprise.

Do you provide funding?
We provide connection to resources and people that are actively involved in funding Black, Latino, and Women-owned businesses. EDLI does not directly fund businesses, but rather we prepare them to go after funding from other resources.

What is the expected length of an entrepreneur's engagement with EDLI?
The recommended engagement is at least six months to make some positive difference in your business metrics. As your business grows, you're welcome to come back and re-engage to address new business challenges.

How is EDLI different from other Entrepreneur and Business Serving organizations?
We are neither an ESO nor BSO. Based on a business assessment upon platform registration, we connect you with ESOs and BSOs as well as other resources that help you grow your business.

Who do you serve?
We are focused on businesses in the Chicagoland area and are specifically positioned to prepare and address the unique needs and challenges faced by Black, Latino, and Women-owned Businesses.

What is the cost to participate?
There is no cost to participate on the EDLI platform.

How will you measure success?
We track more than 20 metrics (KPIs) at the platform and entrepreneur levels to measure EDLI's impact.   We're committed to making platform and resource adjustments based on entrepreneur performance and feedback.

How do I get connected to a professional services provider?
Check out the Resource Library connected with the EDLI Online Community to find the providers that meet your specific needs. Reach out to as many providers as you'd like before settling on the one that offers the best solution for you.

What is a professional services provider?
Professional service providers offer services critical to the setup and ongoing operation of your business including legal, marketing, accounting, public relations and social media and many others.

Who pays for a professional services provider if I am connected?
You are responsible for any costs incurred for the services you require. Please check each service provider for discounts and promotions they may offer.

Do you help startups?
Yes. Through our partnerships with local Business and Entrepreneurial Support Organizations, EDLI provides recommendations, introductions and connections to these resources as well as others.

Can you help me build my website?
You can find website designers and developers who have signed up to be resources on the EDLI community. Contact them directly to find the right one that meets your needs.

What is the "Thinking House"?
The learning and insights hub of Cleveland Avenue, LLC that channels the experience of Cleveland Avenue experts and various industry data sources to unlock meaningful data that leads to actionable insights.

Are you a not-for-profit organization?
Yes, EDLI is a registered 501(C)3 organization.

Who funds EDLI?
EDLI is a non-profit organization receiving grants and funding from multiple sources that are all committed to the growth of entrepreneurs and their businesses. Visit the Resources section of the Join Us page at EDLI.org for a list of our current EDLI funders.

Do you offer X service? (Legal, accounting, tax, graphic design, etc.)
EDLI does not offer services directly. However, if you join the EDLI community, you will see the myriad of service providers committed to supporting Black, Latino, and Women entrepreneurs.

What types of business do you serve?
EDLI is focused on serving entrepreneurs in the Chicagoland area, while our resources cover a variety of industries and geographies.

Do I need a developed business plan to use this platform?
No. But we suggest you take advantage of the business plan tools and concepts available at BackTo Biz, The Lonely Entrepreneur, or Ureeka to create your unique business plan.

Can you provide guidance for B2B and B2C businesses?
Yes.

Will my information be shared with anyone outside of EDLI?
No. Your business and contact information will not be shared with external agencies without your written permission.  EDLI is a secure platform.

Am I responsible for selecting the professional services I need?
Yes. EDLI provides a list of qualified resources.  It is up to each entrepreneur to interview and select the appropriate resource to meet their individual need.

What is meant by growth and scale levels of business maturity?
It means those businesses that have a proven product and/or service already validated in the marketplace and are well-positioned for growth.

How often can I return to the platform?
Once you join as an entrepreneur, you have unlimited access to the EDLI Online Community for information, education,  and interaction with other entrepreneurs and resources.

As an entrepreneur, can I be a resource to other entrepreneurs AND participate in the program?
Absolutely.  EDLI is a community of entrepreneurs.  While you may be on your own journey to build and grow your business, you may be uniquely qualified to assist another business.

Who do I contact if I have any questions?
You can email us at info@EDLI.org