Emil Eikyor: Let’s unite Indy for inclusive innovation and prosperity

Indianapolis stands at the threshold of a transformative economic era. With significant investments from Eli Lilly and Co., Indiana University Health and Elevate Ventures set to reshape our city’s landscape, we have a unique opportunity to ensure all Hoosiers, regardless of race or background, are fully equipped to participate in and benefit from the emerging innovation economy.

The foundation of this empowerment lies in early exposure to STEM fields, entrepreneurship and innovation for our youth. By expanding programs like the TechPoint Foundation for Youth Early Exposure Programs and Xplore career exploration program for high school students, we can ignite passion and curiosity that will drive future success. Normalizing Ivy Tech Community College dual-credit and dual-enrollment programs and scaling after-school initiatives like those offered by the Center for Leadership Development will further enhance our educational ecosystem. These efforts and partnerships with local companies will provide the hands-on learning experiences crucial for our youth’s development.

Building on this foundation, we must focus on developing talent through relevant education and training in high-demand tech fields. This means aligning our educational offerings with the evolving job market and creating robust pathways that include not only traditional degree programs but also coding boot camps, digital marketing courses and other skill-based training.

To nurture entrepreneurial spirit, we must create culturally relevant and accessible support programs. Establishing incubators and accelerators like P30 designed explicitly for Black entrepreneurs, offering mentorship programs and providing safe spaces where ideas can flourish are essential steps. Organizations like the Indianapolis Urban League and Indiana Black Expo could be pivotal in hosting these initiatives, creating environments where Black entrepreneurs feel supported and empowered.

Fostering robust connections between minority-owned businesses, larger corporations and existing business networks is crucial for sustainable growth. By facilitating these relationships, we create a symbiotic ecosystem where entrepreneurs and professionals from all backgrounds fully integrate into Indianapolis’ economic fabric. This integration opens doors to valuable contracts, partnerships, mentorship opportunities and collaborative ventures. Such inclusion not only bolsters individual businesses but also enriches the entire economic landscape of Indianapolis.

Communitywide events focused on minority business development are crucial in fostering inclusive economic growth. These gatherings bring together diverse stakeholders—from established businesses to emerging entrepreneurs, educators to investors—creating an environment where everyone can contribute to making our region more competitive and prosperous. They serve as catalysts for action, fostering dialogue, sparking innovation and building networks essential for inclusive growth.

Investing in dedicated spaces for these programs can serve as powerful symbols of our commitment to inclusive entrepreneurship. Innovation hubs in predominantly Black neighborhoods could become beacons of opportunity and centers for community empowerment, housing various initiatives and serving as physical manifestations of our dedication to inclusive growth.

As we embark on this new economic chapter, let’s commit to inclusivity that benefits all. By ensuring equal opportunities for Black, Latino, Asian and white Hoosiers to lead in our innovation economy, we’ll create a more dynamic and prosperous Indianapolis. The time to act is now. Let’s unite to make lasting change, where our shared prosperity depends on every Hoosier’s success. Together, we can make Indianapolis a model of inclusive innovation and economic opportunity for all.•

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Eikyor is CEO of InnoPower, a social enterprise focused on creating pathways to prosperity for marginalized communities in Indiana.