About
Building the infrastructure for inclusive entrepreneurship.
We exist to remove the barriers that keep talented founders from building sustainable businesses. Our mission is simple: ownership should be a path out of poverty.
At a glance
Our story
One Million Small Startups was founded to bring elite startup support to founders outside of venture hubs. Millions of entrepreneurs live in communities where capital, networks, and mentorship are scarce, even when talent is abundant.
Based in Chicago, we are building a national platform that centers local business owners. The YC model works because it provides structure and accountability. We keep that rigor while removing the barriers that exclude too many founders.
We do not take equity. We do not require warm introductions. We focus on sustainable, profitable businesses that keep wealth in the communities that need it most.
How we work
Access first
Open applications and founder-friendly criteria.
Rigor always
Weekly goals, measurable traction, and accountability.
Community wealth
Support businesses that create jobs and stability locally.
Our values
The values below guide every cohort, partnership, and decision we make.
Accessibility
No gatekeeping, just clear support and open access.
Community
We build alongside founders, not above them.
Impact
Lives changed matter more than vanity metrics.
Sustainability
Profitable, durable businesses create lasting change.
Mission statement