Urban Impact: Strengthening Birmingham, Alabama’s small business ecosystem from the ground up

Our programs

Urban Impact is a nonprofit organization committed to removing barriers for underserved entrepreneurs in Birmingham, Alabama

How Urban Impact supports small businesses in the United States

  • In Birmingham, Alabama, small businesses like salons, restaurants, and local retail stores are key to neighborhood vitality — but they often face barriers to growth. These “Main Street” businesses need tailored capital access and hands-on technical assistance to succeed.
  • Urban Impact provides just that, helping underrepresented business owners build capacity while advancing the economic revitalization of Birmingham’s historic commercial districts. Their mission is rooted in equitable development: driving community-based strategies that promote inclusive economic opportunity, preserve cultural heritage, and ensure long-term neighborhood sustainability.
  • At its core, Urban Impact’s work is about improving quality of life for Birmingham residents — especially those in traditionally underserved areas.

Program overview

Our work together

With Mastercard Strive USA’s support, Urban Impact is expanding three key initiatives designed to accelerate growth for small businesses across Birmingham:

  • Ready for the World: Helps businesses prepare for tourism-related opportunities. In 2022, the program offered small grants ($500–$2,000) to local merchants participating in the World Games, enabling them to improve digital presence, financial systems, legal readiness, and consulting support.
  • Be Birmingham (BE BHM): An ecosystem and capacity-building program that connects startups and existing businesses with mentorship, training, and technical tools. The 12-week, 30-hour curriculum includes personalized coaching and culminates in the organization’s BECOME pitch competition.
  • IMPACT Loan Fund: Provides technical assistance and accessible loans ranging from $500 to $25,000, helping small businesses secure low-interest capital for growth.

Together, these programs create a supportive pipeline for small business success in Birmingham’s historic neighborhoods.

By the numbers

By the end of 2024, Urban Impact had:

  • Provided technical assistance to more than 250 businesses.
  • Facilitated access to financial resources or loans for over 110 businesses.

“This grant from Mastercard represents far more than financial support—it’s an investment in the future of our communities. It empowers Urban Impact to expand opportunities for economic mobility, entrepreneurship, and neighborhood revitalization, ensuring that residents can thrive where they live. This partnership aligns perfectly with our long-term vision of building sustainable, equitable communities, and we hope its legacy will be one of shared prosperity and lasting impact.”

Ivan W. Holloway

President & CEO, Urban Impact

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