Abilene Refugee Business Accelerator (ARBA)
Empowering small entrepreneurs.
Strengthening Abilene’s economy.
The Abilene Refugee Business Accelerator is a flagship entrepreneurship and small-business development program of Refugee Integration through Strategic Empowerment. The program equips refugees, immigrants, and underserved aspiring entrepreneurs in Abilene, Texas, with practical entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and small-business development support to start and grow sustainable small businesses.
By supporting emerging entrepreneurs, ARBA promotes economic empowerment, community integration, and inclusive local development.
The Challenge
Many refugees and immigrants possess valuable skills, creativity, and strong entrepreneurial potential. However, starting a business in a new country often presents challenges, including limited access to training, mentorship, and professional networks.
The Solution
ARBA addresses these challenges by providing a structured entrepreneurship accelerator program that helps participants transform business ideas into viable enterprises. Through applied training and community partnerships, ARBA creates pathways to economic opportunity, financial independence, and long-term stability.
Benefits to Participants
Participants in the ARBA accelerator receive:
- practical entrepreneurship training
- mentorship from experienced professionals
- business planning and enterprise development support
- financial literacy and marketing guidance
- networking opportunities within the local business community
Expected Impact
We aim to strengthen economic opportunity in Abilene by supporting:
- new small businesses launched
- entrepreneurs trained and mentored
- increased financial independence for participants
- stronger community economic participation
- local job creation
- personal development growth