About Us

Did You Know?
There are over 24 million "mom-and-pop" businesses in the U.S., often home-based, that are responsible for almost 18% of all employment.

Rising Tide Capital is a 501-c-3 non-profit organziation founded in 2004 by two Harvard graduates, Alfa Demmellash and Alex Forrester to provide significantly under-resourced entrepreneurs in distressed urban areas with the skills, tools and information they need to start and grow successful businesses.

Inspired by the work of Dr. Muhammad Yunus on microfinance, the organization first begun with the goal of providing access to capital. However, it soon became clear to the founders that financial capital is only part of the solution. So, Rising Tide Capital widened its definition of "Capital" to include:

1. Knowledge Capital
2. Social Capital
3. Access to Financial Capital

Starting a business can be overwhelming, isolating and financially risky - especially for those with limited means.

At Rising Tide Capital, individuals committed to the dream of starting or growing a business receive premier business management training in an easily accessible program called the Community Business Academy. Year-round Business Acceleration Services provide individualized coaching support, advanced seminars, networking events, marketing opportunities and help accessing capital.

Funding for Rising Tide Capital is provided by government, corporate, foundation and individual philantropists who believe the mission of the organization is a core strategy to long-term poverty alleviation and economic revitalization.

By investing in high-potential entrepreneurs with limited resources, Rising Tide Capital aims to promote the growth of financially independent individuals participating in the creation of strong local economies.

If you are interested in our programs or in supporting our work, please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. today.