Collider Foundation’s Continued Dedication to Serving Underrepresented Entrepreneurs

In 2019, Collider Foundation was founded as a nonprofit organization with a mission to lower barriers to entrepreneurship for anyone in our community with a great idea and a passion to see it grow, particularly for those who face the greatest barriers to business ownership. 

Today, we are just as deeply committed to making the path to business ownership more approachable and accessible for each individual we serve through our work. We know that entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for social and economic change, and yet many aspiring business owners here in Rochester face obstacles that hinder their success. These barriers—ranging from limited access to capital, networks, and business education—are disproportionately felt by women, people of color, and immigrants. Our organization seeks to dismantle these obstacles by providing resources, mentorship, and educational opportunities tailored to those who need them the most. 

As a data driven organization, we know from years of research and direct community feedback that the entrepreneurial landscape is not always equitable. For many in historically marginalized communities, the dream of owning a business can feel out of reach due to systemic challenges such as discrimination, lack of access to funding, and limited support networks. To address these disparities, we focus on creating an inclusive ecosystem that provides hands-on support to underrepresented entrepreneurs. 

Our dedication goes beyond just making entrepreneurship accessible—we aim to foster a culture of empowerment, where all individuals feel confident and capable of turning their business dreams into reality. By providing startup support, accessible business education, and a community of like-minded entrepreneurs, we are helping to create a more diverse, equitable, and vibrant entrepreneurial landscape. We believe that when people from all walks of life have the tools, resources, and support they need, they can break through barriers and achieve lasting success in business. 

Rochester is home to many women, BIPOC and immigrant owned businesses and there are countless ways to show support to the business owners in our community who may have encountered significant obstacles in getting where they are today. Next time you’re going out to eat, consider trying something new. Take a moment to find some local businesses on social media and give them a follow. Seek out and attend an event that may be unfamiliar to you. Small actions can have a big impact on small businesses and community support is what keeps our diverse, vibrant business ecosystem alive and well.