Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs: Where Atlanta’s entrepreneurs go to build Big IDEAS

Our programs

Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs equips overlooked and underestimated entrepreneurs with the access, resources, and community they need to grow stronger businesses.

How Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs supports small businesses in the United States

According to the Small Business Administration, more than 30% of small businesses fail by their second year. The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) is working to change that. As the largest business support hub in Atlanta, RICE exists to equip often overlooked entrepreneurs with the resources, expertise, and capital they need to grow resilient businesses.

RICE launched in 2016 and, by 2019, had expanded into full-scale programming to help entrepreneurs grow from idea to scale. In addition to direct funding, the center provides expert mentorship, wraparound services, and a path to sustainable business growth — all with the goal of job creation and economic mobility.

Program overview

Our work together

  • With Mastercard Strive USA’s support, RICE is scaling its Big IDEAS curriculum — Inspire, Develop, Execute, Accelerate, and Scale. This flagship program provides entrepreneurs with a two-year, in-house studio experience designed to equip them with a clear action plan and the resources to grow.
  • Participants receive hands-on mentorship from successful growth-stage businesses known as “Pacesetters” — companies generating over $1 million in annual revenue. They also gain access to funding opportunities, legal and financial services, and one-on-one support from partners like Google, Chase Bank, Accenture, and King & Spalding. Together, RICE and Mastercard Strive USA are investing in entrepreneurs whose businesses have the potential to create jobs, generate wealth, and contribute to Atlanta’s long-term prosperity.
  • This partnership also includes direct small business grants for entrepreneurs demonstrating financial need.

By the numbers

RICE serves more than 1,000 businesses annually

“At the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs, we believe access changes everything. Mastercard Strive USA’s support helps us turn that belief into action—expanding programs, deepening our impact, and equipping entrepreneurs with the tools, networks, and visibility they need to thrive in today’s economy.”

Elise Robinson

Vice President, Marketing & Communications, RICE

e

Share this article