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Who We Are

About BEA

Our Purpose

Mission & Vision

Mission: To advance racial and economic equity in San Diego by empowering BIPOC entrepreneurs with the capital, networks, and skills to build thriving businesses.

Vision: A San Diego where every entrepreneur — regardless of race, zip code, or economic background — has a fair opportunity to build wealth and shape their community.

Our Core Values

  • Equity over equality — meeting people where they are with what they need.
  • Community-led — decisions and programs are shaped by those we serve.
  • Radical transparency — honest about challenges and accountable for results.
  • Collaboration — systemic change requires collective action.

Our Journey

How BEA Began

2018
A coalition of San Diego community leaders, frustrated by persistent wealth gaps, founded BEA to directly address barriers facing BIPOC entrepreneurs.
2020
Received 501(c)(3) status and launched our inaugural mentorship cohort of 25 founders during the height of the pandemic.
2022
Partnered with the City of San Diego's Office of Equity to deliver small business technical assistance across 6 underserved communities.
2024
Surpassed 500 entrepreneurs served and $2.4M in capital facilitated. Expanded programming to National City, Chula Vista, and Barrio Logan.

The People

Leadership Team

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Executive Director

Name TBD

Founder & community organizer with 15 years in economic development.

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Director of Programs

Name TBD

Former SBDC advisor specializing in access to capital for minority businesses.

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Director of Partnerships

Name TBD

Builds and stewards relationships with corporate, civic, and philanthropic partners.