Elevate District 5
The COVID-19 pandemic brought to light systemic issues that have existed for decades in the Miami-Dade small business community. From technology barriers to inaccessibility to emergency grants and loans, our small business community was left in the dark many times about the tools they had available to survive this public health crisis. That's why Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins launched the Elevate District 5 Program.
Elevate District 5 is Commissioner Eileen Higgins’ comprehensive program to strengthen and grow small businesses by using data and community feedback to create, improve, and expand resources and tools that address real needs in District 5. The program is funded by the American Rescue Plan (ARPA), President Biden's plan to provide direct relief to Americans and rescue the economy.
Program Goals
Program Goals
Foster a lasting supportive environment for District 5 small businesses
Fill technology gaps at all levels
Spur growth through skills and capital
Build understanding of further small business needs
About Commissioner Eileen Higgins
Eileen Higgins has served as the County Commissioner for District 5 since 2018, representing portions of the cities of Miami and Miami Beach. Serving a diverse district with stark inequality, Commissioner Higgins is a leading voice for closing existing equity gaps by bringing transportation to underserved neighborhoods, championing increased affordable housing, creating an economic ecosystem to support small minority-owned businesses, defending low-wage workers, seniors, and LGBTQ allies, and protecting the waters that surround Miami-Dade.
An engineer by trade, with an MBA from Cornell University, she is a problem solver with a proven record of helping businesses and local organizations address complex issues facing our community. Her work as a Country Director in the Peace Corps and as a diplomat in the U.S. State Department gives her the ability to look at local challenges with a unique perspective and in a compassionate manner.
Hear from Elevate District 5 Graduates
“These courses have given me tangible tools to keep my business afloat in what may be the most challenging chapter of its nearly 25-year-long presence in District 5.
I am proof positive that Elevate District 5 is making meaningful change in our community! Honestly, I could have never made these strides in my business without the benefit of having participated in two courses back-to-back. I still have much to learn, but I am well on my way."
Yllien Verdes, Apple Family Dental