Explore the CLT Alliance Foundation’s 2023-2024 Impact Report: “Creating Possibility in the Charlotte Region”
Over the past 18 months, our team at the CLT Alliance Foundation has been working tirelessly to support business leaders throughout the Charlotte Region. Whether it’s helping entrepreneurs figure out start-up challenges and grow their business to $1 million in revenues or creating social capital for black executives to reach the C-Suite, our organization is committed to Helping Leaders Navigate Possibility.
Our new impact report shares the story of our initiatives and the results they’ve created, telling the stories of just a few of the individuals who have benefited from our work. We encourage you to read the report and see what we’ve done, but here are a few highlights.
Since 2023, Charlotte Region business leaders have been able to access resources, support and build social capital through five new initiatives.
- RISE: an AI-powered digital resource hub that helps businesses and their leaders navigate a robust directory of tools and resources.
- African American Leadership Academy of Charlotte: a proven Executive development program that leverages a Korn Ferry, research-based curriculum and cohort program for Black executives across public, private and nonprofit sectors.
- Small Business Growth Fund: the Small Business Growth Fund provides up to $40 million in accessible, competitive loans to Charlotte small businesses.
- Catch Your Breath: a 6-month program supporting entrepreneurs’ well-being through financial education, relaxation workshops, and a cohort experience.
- Office Hours: Charlotte leaders have been able to meet with our team of Business Navigators to receive technical assistance and coaching. These free one-on-one sessions are personalized for each participant to help them get unstuck.
Our work has achieved notable outcomes already:
- 39% average revenue growth for Scale Up CLT participants.
- 21% of businesses reached $1 million in revenue, 5x higher than national averages.
- 3200+ unique users saved time by accessing the RISE directory of resources.
- Supported 209 business owners through the Catch Your Breath program, addressing mental health and well-being concerns that entrepreneurs face
- 75+ businesses completed office hours, receiving technical assistance and coaching to focus on critical areas of their business.
Beyond the numbers, we also share the stories of business leaders like Eric Craft and Damita Rhodie, who participated in AALAC and Catch Your Breath, respectively. Their stories, and the experiences of the thousands of businesses who depend on our work, underscore the importance of our work and the impact that we’re able to achieve with the right resources.
This is just the beginning of our story, and we look forward to including you in the next chapter. Read the report here and get involved to help Charlotte business leaders Navigate Possibility.
Reflecting on the Year: Setting Goals and Intentions for the New Year as a Small Business
As the year wraps up, it’s the perfect time for small business owners to hit pause, look back on everything they’ve accomplished, and get excited about what’s next. Running a business is a journey filled with twists, turns, and learning experiences, and the end of the year is a chance to reflect, celebrate, and set fresh goals for the new year. Here are some fun and effective ways to look back on the year and plan for an even better year ahead!
1. Celebrate Your Wins
First things first—let’s celebrate! Think back to the big wins and small victories your business achieved this year. Whether it’s reaching a revenue goal, gaining loyal new customers, or simply making it through a busy season, these moments are worth recognizing. Celebrating keeps you motivated and gives you a solid foundation for setting next year’s goals.
Tip: Make a quick list of your top three wins. What made them possible? How can you build on that momentum next year?
2. Reflect on Challenges and Lessons Learned
Every business has its ups and downs, and the downs are just as valuable. Challenges teach us what to do better, smarter, and different. Take a look at what didn’t go as planned this year and think about how those experiences helped you grow as a business owner. It’s all part of the journey!
Tip: Write down your top three lessons from this year. Use these to turn potential hurdles into stepping stones for the new year.
3. Get a Handle on Finances and Set Fresh Goals
Before setting new financial goals, check in on where you stand now. Look at your cash flow, expenses, and profit margins to understand your business's financial state. This insight will help you set realistic financial goals for the new year that support your big-picture vision.
Tip: Set financial goals that get you excited about the future. Whether it’s a revenue increase, saving for that next big step, or cutting costs, keep your goals inspiring and doable.
4. Reconnect with Your “Why”
Take a moment to revisit your mission and vision. Do they still reflect where you want to go? Reconnecting with your “why” can give you the motivation and clarity to keep moving forward and making an impact.
Tip: Write out your mission and vision as they stand now. If they need a refresh, this is a great time to make them stronger for the new year!
5. Set Fun, Actionable Goals for Next Year
Once you’ve reflected, it’s time to dream big. Set actionable goals that align with your values and your vision for growth. Make them bold yet achievable, and don’t be afraid to break them down into monthly or quarterly targets. This keeps you motivated and gives you a steady flow of wins throughout the year.
Tip: Use the SMART goals framework—goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—to keep you on track while you make progress.
6. Embrace a Growth Mindset
Adopt a growth mindset as you step into the new year. Entrepreneurship is all about being adaptable and resilient, and a growth mindset helps you see setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. By focusing on progress (rather than perfection), you’ll be ready to face whatever comes your way!
Tip: Try jotting down one thing you’re grateful for each week to stay focused on the positives and keep that momentum going strong.
Looking Ahead: Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet
As you reflect and set your intentions for the new year, remember that every step forward is progress. The CLT Alliance Foundation is proud to support small businesses across Charlotte, helping them “Navigate Possibility” and make their goals a reality. Ready to make 2025 your best year yet? Download our Impact Brochure to see the difference we’re making together and find out how you can join a thriving community of entrepreneurs in Charlotte. Here’s to an amazing new year filled with growth and success!