Reflect, Reunite, Renew

Dear ICIC Community,

As winter’s chill embraces us, I extend a warm invitation to all of you to join us in a season of reflection, reunion, and renewal. These three words capture the essence of our journey, our shared history, and our vision for the future at the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City (ICIC).

Reflect—This coming year marks a significant milestone as ICIC celebrates 30 years of tireless commitment to driving economic inclusion and innovation. Looking back, we are reminded of our roots, which reach deep into the soil of community empowerment. The seeds sown in the aftermath of the 1992 civil disturbances in Los Angeles have grown into a robust tree of hope and opportunity. We’ve faced adversity, witnessed societal changes, emerged from a global pandemic, and adapted to new challenges. Yet, our mission to create jobs, income, and wealth for residents in underserved communities has not wavered. 

Our mission to create jobs, income, and wealth for residents in underserved communities has not wavered.

Reunite—It is also a time to reunite, to come together as a community of change-makers, mentors, and dreamers. We raise our glasses to commemorate 25 years of the Inner City 100 Awards, where we have celebrated the outstanding achievements of businesses that have not only thrived but have also been beacons of hope in their neighborhoods. It’s a moment to cherish the bonds formed, to welcome new members into our family, and to celebrate the collective impact we’ve had over the years.

Renew—As we celebrate our past, we are equally focused on renewing our commitment to the mission, vision, and values that have guided us for nearly three decades. Our mission has helped more than 8,000 small businesses in 56 states and territories not just survive but thrive since 1994. Our vision for a future where every community is empowered, every entrepreneur has access to opportunities, and every dream has the chance to flourish is as vivid as ever. Our values of resilience, innovation, and inclusivity continue to be our guiding stars.

Looking forward together
In the coming year, we will continue to innovate, adapt, and expand our efforts. We will forge new partnerships and initiatives that will empower even more entrepreneurs and communities. Together, we will leverage the challenges we face as opportunities for growth, resilience, and positive transformation.

I want to express my deep gratitude to our Board of Directors, our tireless supporters, and our dedicated staff. Your unwavering commitment is the driving force behind our success.

As we gather around the warmth of community this winter, let’s reflect on how far we’ve come, reunite to celebrate our achievements, and renew our commitment to the betterment of our communities. Together, we will ensure that the next 30 years of ICIC are marked by even greater impact and progress.

With warmth and determination,
Ronald A. Homer
Chairman, ICIC Board of Directors