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About the Restaurant Accelerator Program

Black entrepreneurs have long faced systemic challenges, including limited access to loans and capital, biased perceptions, and the impacts of gentrification that hinder growth and success. 

To break down these barriers, the National Urban League, in partnership with the PepsiCo Foundation, launched the Restaurant Accelerator Program. Through our 12 Entrepreneurship Centers across the U.S., the program empowers participants with the tools, expertise, and resources needed to overcome obstacles and achieve lasting success.

Participants team up with entrepreneurship advisors and dedicated PepsiCo employee volunteers to develop actionable growth strategies. Our mission is to help businesses become profitable, agile, and ready to thrive in a competitive landscape.

The program offers:

  • Direct Grant Support: providing funding to 500 businesses to fuel growth 
  • Technical Assistance: expert coaching and hands-on training on various topics such as accounting systems, inventory management, operational efficiency, marketing strategies, and team development.

Eligibility Requirements: must be a food service company located in in the service area of a National Urban League Entrepreneurship Center in one of the following cities: Atlanta, GA; Baltimore, MD; Chicago, IL; Cincinnati, OH; Cleveland, OH; Houston, TX; Jacksonville, FL; Las Vegas, NV; Los Angeles, CA; New Orleans, LA; Philadelphia, PA; and Washington DC. Minimum revenue standards and other prerequisites will apply. Interested businesses should contact their local Entrepreneurship Center to complete an application for consideration.

 

 

 

[i] Business must be one of the following types of food service companies as defined by the following NAICS Codes: 722511 Full-Service Restaurants; 722513 Limited-Service Restaurants; 722330 Mobile Food Services; and 722320 Caterers.