The IRC in Atlanta’s Microenterprise Development (MED) program provides financial coaching, lending services and training and technical assistance to refugees—both aspiring entrepreneurs and existing business owners—prioritizing individuals who have been in the United States for less than five years.  

Small Business Mentors help to strengthen and expand small businesses, further developing a robust local economy. If you are an experienced small-business owner or have experience in any of the professions listed below, please consider virtually mentoring a refugee-owned business with the IRC in Atlanta. 

 

Responsibilities: 

  • Work one-on-one with refugee business owners 
  • Assist with technological support, e.g., setting up and navigating Zoom or other platforms, digital literacy skill building, and troubleshooting as needed. 

Preferred Experience: 

Experience in one of the following fields is preferred: 

  • Local food businesses (catering, food trucks, bakery, prepared food vending, restaurants, etc.)  
  • Skilled trade (construction, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.)   
  • Transportation (inter-state freight trucking, independent contractors)  
  • Import/export  
  • Auto-body and auto-repair  
  • Retail (grocery, clothing, etc.)  
  • Graphic design for marketing

Requirements:

  • Background check required 
  • Must submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination 
  • Must track and log hours volunteered monthly via our online volunteer dashboard 

Minimum Commitment: 

  • Small Business Mentors will work with their assigned refugee-owned business owner to determine a schedule for support and assistance as needed 

 

To learn more or sign up, please contact [email protected]