Baltimore, January 14, 2026
The Housing Authority of Baltimore City and Innovation Works have launched a new business incubator at Gilmor Homes to support local entrepreneurs. This 18-month program provides mentorship, training, and office space to six small business owners, all residents of public housing or the surrounding area. The initiative aims to foster economic growth and empower residents to establish successful businesses, addressing systemic issues within the community.
Baltimore, Maryland
New Business Incubator Launches at Gilmor Homes to Empower Local Entrepreneurs
Baltimore’s Gilmor Homes has introduced a new business incubator program aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth within the community. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) and Innovation Works, a nonprofit organization dedicated to closing the racial wealth gap in Baltimore. The program offers mentorship, training, and office space to six local entrepreneurs, all residents of public housing or the surrounding West Baltimore area. The goal is to provide these individuals with the tools and resources necessary to establish and sustain successful businesses, thereby promoting self-sufficiency and economic development in the region.
Program Details and Participant Profiles
The 18-month incubator program is designed to support small business owners by offering comprehensive services, including business training, mentorship, and access to essential resources. Participants in the inaugural cohort include:
- Klutch Beauty Bar: A health and wellness mobile med spa offering services directly to community members’ homes.
- The Flowers Whiting Initiative
- Coach G Step is Life
- Inspirational Textiles
- LuvLotss High Fashion Brand
- Young Queens in Training Inc.
Shakia Brown, owner of Klutch Beauty Bar, emphasizes the program’s impact on her business and personal aspirations. She aims to transition out of public housing, achieve homeownership, and provide health and wellness services to her community. The program is free of charge and has already attracted a waiting list, with plans to offer additional one-day sessions open to the public. Officials are also seeking business owners to serve as mentors and sponsors to further support the initiative.
Background and Community Impact
Gilmor Homes, located in West Baltimore, has historically faced economic challenges. The introduction of this business incubator represents a significant step toward revitalizing the area by empowering residents to become self-sufficient through entrepreneurship. By providing essential resources and support, the program aims to break cycles of poverty and build sustainable futures for local residents. The partnership between HABC and Innovation Works reflects a commitment to fostering economic development and addressing systemic issues within the community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the new business incubator at Gilmor Homes?
The business incubator aims to foster entrepreneurship and economic growth within the Gilmor Homes community by providing mentorship, training, and office space to local entrepreneurs.
Who are the participants in the inaugural cohort?
The inaugural cohort includes six small business owners: Klutch Beauty Bar, The Flowers Whiting Initiative, Coach G Step is Life, Inspirational Textiles, LuvLotss High Fashion Brand, and Young Queens in Training Inc.
Is the program open to the public?
While the 18-month incubator program is free and currently has a waiting list, officials plan to offer additional one-day sessions open to the public.
How can business owners get involved as mentors or sponsors?
Business owners interested in serving as mentors or sponsors can contact the Housing Authority of Baltimore City at 410-396-6197 for more information.
What is the significance of this initiative for the Gilmor Homes community?
The initiative represents a significant step toward revitalizing Gilmor Homes by empowering residents to become self-sufficient through entrepreneurship, aiming to break cycles of poverty and build sustainable futures.
Key Features of the Business Incubator Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Program Duration | 18 months |
| Target Participants | Residents of public housing and surrounding West Baltimore area |
| Services Offered | Mentorship, training, office space, and access to resources |
| Program Cost | Free of charge |
| Current Status | Free program with a waiting list; additional one-day sessions planned |
| Contact Information | Housing Authority of Baltimore City at 410-396-6197 |
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