We believe the most impactful way to drive economic growth in cities with significant racial wealth gaps is to provide residents with proven pathways to build sustainable businesses that address neighborhood needs. In 2016, Frank Knott approached Miller Center for Global Impact to explore adapting its global social entrepreneurship model for Baltimore, one of the U.S. cities with the highest racial wealth gaps. Following a due diligence process, Frank founded Innovation Works to pilot the model in Baltimore and hired Jay Nwachu as CEO. Together with Pamela Roussos of Miller Center, they adapted the model to focus on building wealth and sustainable neighborhood economies in Baltimore’s disinvested communities.

Following the success of the Baltimore model, WeavingImpact was founded to bring this methodology to cities across the U.S. In 2022, Anne Lufkin-Riaño joined the team, bringing experience in replicating financial inclusion programs. Today, WeavingImpact serves as a strategic partner, helping existing organizations strengthen and expand their support for local entrepreneurs. The organization aims to grow its reach to 20 cities by 2033, expanding the proven approach developed through Innovation Works in Baltimore.