More than 10,000 Black entrepeneurs have benefited since the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneuers (RICE) opened its doors in 2019. As the nation's largest nonprofit center dedicated solely to Black business growth, RICE is a beacon of opportunity for Black entrepreneurs with its impressive 54,000 square feet center located in Atlanta's Westside neighborhood.
To continue enhancing the opportunities provided by the Russell Center to Black entrepreneurs in the city, Atlanta United's Founding Parnter, AT&T, presented a donation of $50,000 to RICE during Atlanta United's match vs Houston Dynamo this Saturday. AT&T has been a long time supporter of the Russell Center, an institution that provides essential resources, mentorship, and a supportive community to empower Black visionaries.
The check was presented by Venessa Harrison, President of AT&T Southeast Coastal States, to Shawn Graham, RICE Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Office, and Dr. Quintin Bostic, RICE Associate Director or Programming and Project Management.
RICE honors the legacy of Herman J. Russell, Sr., a legendary Atlanta entrepreneur and philanthropist. RICE's core mission, "Build Black Business," reflects this dedication. They achieve this by providing a comprehensive support system through their signature program, Big IDEAS. This program equips entrepreneurs at every stage, from launch to growth, with the tools and connections they need to thrive.
RICE's commitment extends beyond individual businesses. By nurturing Black entrepreneurship, they fuel economic mobility within the Atlanta community. Their 500+ "Stakeholder" companies - the businesses they support - exemplify the power of their approach.
RICE's ambitious goals for the next decade are equally impressive: supporting 1,000 businesses, creating 3,000 jobs, and generating a staggering $2 billion in new economic value. For more information about the Russell Center, please visit russellcenter.org.
