NRBP Engage & Exchange: Members Explore Access to Capital with IFEL’s Jill Johnson

NEWARK, NJ — The Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) brought members together Thursday, August 27, for its monthly Engage & Exchange virtual meeting featuring Jill Johnson, Co-Founder and CEO of the Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL). Johnson led a timely conversation on angel investing, access to capital, and the importance of relationships in helping entrepreneurs secure the resources they need to grow

During the conversation, Johnson challenged the idea that access to capital is simply a meritocracy, emphasizing that “capital access is a relationship problem.” She discussed persistent disparities in venture capital, the role of personal wealth and networks in determining who can access funding, and how systemic barriers can make it more difficult for underrepresented entrepreneurs to secure traditional financing.

Johnson also shared IFEL's approach to addressing these challenges through what she describes as “community as capital.” The organization's work focuses on building small-business capacity, creating relationship-capital connections through skills-based volunteerism, and expanding investor inclusion.
Among IFEL's initiatives are Making of Black Angels, Making of Latin Angels, Pipeline Angels, and Capital Circles, which encourages everyday community members to invest smaller amounts in local businesses—not just high-growth technology companies.

Johnson illustrated the potential of community-based capital through the story of Lagniappe Bakehouse, a New Orleans bakery that needed $13,000 for production equipment. With IFEL's support, the business launched a campaign through Kiva, ultimately raising $13,500 from 182 individual lenders, with an average contribution of approximately $100.
The example underscored a central theme of the discussion: community activation can be just as powerful as large checks when entrepreneurs have the relationships, tools, and networks to mobilize support.

“Entrepreneurs don't always need one large investor to move their businesses forward,” said Ferlanda Fox Nixon, President & CEO of NRBP. “Today's conversation highlighted how relationships, community networks, and greater investor inclusion can help create more equitable pathways to capital and economic opportunity.”

The Engage & Exchange also provided members an opportunity to share updates and connect with one another. Member discussion included opportunities related to mobile EV charging, commercial real estate financing, and growing a wine business, reinforcing the value of NRBP's member-to-member exchange.
NRBP also shared several organizational updates, including its current membership drive, newly monetized newsletter sponsorship opportunities, the completion of recording Engage & Exchange Podcast Season Two, upcoming programming, and the continued growth of initiatives supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs.

The NRBP Engage & Exchange is a monthly members-only virtual gathering designed to connect members with thought leaders, timely business insights, and one another. Through conversations like Thursday's discussion, NRBP continues to create opportunities for its members to exchange ideas, build relationships, and strengthen the Greater Newark business community.
​
###

About the Newark Regional Business Partnership
As the premier chamber of commerce serving the Greater Newark region, the Newark Regional Business Partnership (NRBP) creates opportunities for businesses of all sizes, nonprofits, and community leaders to connect, expand their networks, strengthen their organizations, and contribute to a vibrant and competitive Greater Newark economic ecosystem. Through convenings, programs, and strategic partnerships, NRBP works to support business growth and advance Newark’s economic vitality. For more information about NRBP, visit www.newarkrbp.org.