The Pulse is the official newsletter of the Initiative for Inclusive Entrepreneurship (IIE). Each quarter, we bring you key updates on IIE’s progress, resources and events tied to our mission, as well as examples of impact from across our ecosystem. We’re kicking off 2026 with the latest from IIE. In this edition of The Pulse, explore recent updates, events, and insights, plus highlights from the past quarter and a look at what’s ahead.

From expanding access to capital to strengthening supply chains and embracing new technology, the update reinforces the critical role small businesses continue to play in driving local economies and shaping the future of growth.

Read the full newsletter for trends, takeaways, and stories making an impact across the small business ecosystem.

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• Areas of Expertise

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Click the link below for the newsletter.

https://www.iiehub.org/ptc-resources/post/the-pulse-newsletter-2025-december-YtB0Im1vybxkIQR

Click the link below for the newsletter:

https://www.iiehub.org/ptc-resources/post/the-pulse-newsletter-2025-december-YtB0Im1vybxkIQR

A quick note from the IIE Knowledge Network:

Last quarter, we launched the second iteration of the IIE Hub, designed to share resources, highlight best practices, and strengthen relationships across the field. This is only the start—more features, opportunities to engage, and ecosystem partners are on the way as we continue to build out IIE’s Knowledge Network. Sign up here for the Hub and stay tuned for what's next.

To help you get started, we’ve created a quick checklist:

1. Review our Community Guidelines – This will help you understand how to engage respectfully and effectively.

2. Explore the Resource Library – Familiarize yourself with the tools and materials available to you. Upload a resource that can be useful to your peers.

3. Introduce Yourself Below – Share who you are, the work you’re focused on, and what you hope to gain from this community.

This is your space to ask questions, share lessons learned, and collaborate with peers across various sectors. We look forward to your contributions and the discussions ahead!

Executive Summary

Background

The State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI 2.0) is a federal program authorized by the 2021 American Rescue Plan that gives $10 billion to states to create programs that invest in —and help grow — small businesses. Each state is tasked with designing the programs and products that reach a broad range of diverse entrepreneurs from this unprecedentedly large program.

Challenge

How do states structure capital, administer programs, and build the partnerships necessary to successfully leverage this federal investment to create jobs, reach and support businesses, and permanently strengthen their state economies?

Opportunity

Revenue Based Loans (RBL) is an innovative and underutilized financial product that states should consider in their SSBCI 2.0 portfolio. RBL offers more flexible repayment, aligns incentives between founders and funders, and allows a broader range of ventures to grow early in their lifecycle —maximizing chances of success and repayment.

Executive Summary

Background

The State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI 2.0) is a federal program authorized by the 2021 American Rescue Plan that gives $10 billion to states to create programs that invest in —and help grow — small businesses. Each state is tasked with designing the programs and products that reach a broad range of diverse entrepreneurs from this unprecedentedly large program.

Challenge

How do states structure capital, administer programs, and build the partnerships necessary to successfully leverage this federal investment to create jobs, support businesses, and permanently strengthen their state economies?

Opportunity

Supply Chain Finance (SCF) is an innovative and underutilized approach that states should consider in their SSBCI 2.0 portfolio. SCF ties financing to the promise of future cash flows (e.g., contracts, invoices), providing critical working capital to small supplier (e.g., B2B, B2G) businesses.