We help talented Bronx entrepreneurs who often get overlooked. Our program offers funding, mentorship, and resources to help community-focused businesses grow and succeed. Together, we're building a stronger Bronx where businesses support each other.
Community Enterprise Accelerator Inc. (CEA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the small business ecosystem. By bridging the gap between entrepreneurs, capital, and technical assistance, we create the infrastructure needed for local businesses and their communities to thrive together.
To transform the Bronx business ecosystem through innovation and collaboration, empowering entrepreneurs to build sustainable, community-focused enterprises.
A Bronx where businesses of all sizes work together to create opportunities, mentor the next generation, and strengthen our community's economic foundation.
By investing in local entrepreneurs and building connections between small businesses, we're creating the foundation for sustainable, community-rooted growth.
Based at the Bronx Business Tech Incubator (BBTI) at CUNY on the Concourse, the CEA is funded by Level Up Ventures (a Hearst subsidiary) and Elevate Digital.
Our 9-month Fellowship backs ambitious, under-recognized Bronx entrepreneurs. Fellows receive $15,000 in grant capital, one-on-one coaching, and connections to the advisors, partners, and peers who help a business grow.
Meet our current CEA Fellows: High-potential, community-focused leaders selected for their ability to drive measurable impact, including revenue growth and job creation, and their commitment to strengthening The Bronx.
Lifelong Bronx native co-founded From The Bronx to dramatically improve the image of the Bronx and share its rich culture and history globally through original positive Bronx-themed merchandise.
Born and raised in the Bronx, inspired by her personal weight loss journey to produce gluten-free, sugar-free, keto-friendly cookies that combine indulgence with wellness.
Built LR2 Photo Studio to provide Black creatives access to professional space, resources, and mentorship with affordable studio rentals and free educational programs.
Immigrated from Jamaica to the Bronx at age seven, founded a contemporary womenswear brand focused on authenticity, confidence, and representation with bold, sustainable attire.
Founded pinStripe IT to offer managed IT services to small businesses and non-profits, providing unlimited, full-service support with a high-touch, boutique IT experience.
CEA thrives on collaboration. We partner with a diverse network of corporations, educational institutions, and community organizations, all committed to nurturing entrepreneurial talent and fostering a thriving, equitable Bronx ecosystem. Together, we build bridges and share collective intelligence. Key founding partners include Level Up Ventures (a Hearst subsidiary) and Elevate Digital, with program partners and volunteer support from M&T Bank, NYPACE, and others.
Updates from CEA and our Bronx Brilliance event series—celebrating and elevating the Bronx entrepreneurial ecosystem through inspiring stories and strategic discussions.
On December 12, the Community Enterprise Accelerator gathered at DREAM Charter High School to celebrate the launch of CEA Cohort 3, marking an important milestone in CEA's evolution.
Read More →
Inside our selection process: How current fellows, staff, and partners evaluate 16 finalists to choose the 5 entrepreneurs joining CEA Cohort 3.
Read More →
The Community Enterprise Accelerator's Bronx Brilliance event at UMSV honored Cohort 2, key partners, and unveiled 16 Cohort 3 finalists.
Read More →Strategic Planning in Action: A Day with CEA Cohort 2 at Hearst
We're looking for entrepreneurs running a for-profit business based in the Bronx for at least a year, with more than $75,000 in total sales. Cohort 4 applications are closed. If you're ready to grow, sharpen your strategy, and connect with people who can help, join our mailing list to hear first when applications for Cohort 5 open. See full eligibility criteria.
Get Notified