We support refugees and new Americans in building financial stability and long‑term opportunity through small business development and financial capability programs.
Entrepreneurship & Economic Empowerment at IRC in Utah
Entrepreneurship & Economic Empowerment means having basic needs met and access to sustainable income, financial tools, and assets that allow individuals and families to prosper.
For refugees and new Americans rebuilding their lives in the United States, financial systems can be complex and unfamiliar. The IRC in Utah’s Entrepreneurship & Economic Empowerment team supports clients as they strengthen their financial wellbeing, build assets, and grow small businesses so they can achieve long‑term stability and opportunity.
Our programs help clients navigate the U.S. financial system, make informed financial decisions, and access the tools and support needed to build income, credit, and financial security over time.
Small Business & Entrepreneurship
We support refugee and new American entrepreneurs at various stages—from early ideas to established businesses
Services We Provide:
Small business setup assistance
One‑on‑one business counseling and technical support
Business and financial education
Market access opportunities, including pop‑up shops and community events
A specialized Childcare Business Program
Business Models We Support:
Artisan & craft
Beauty services & alterations
Childcare
Farming
Food businesses
Heating & cooling
Ride share
Trucking
Financial Coaching, Asset Building, & Tax Support
Strong financial skills and access to fair financial products are essential to long‑term stability. The IRC offers financial capability services that help clients build confidence, credit, and assets.
These services include:
Financial literacy education and one‑on‑one financial coaching
Credit‑building loans and guidance to improve credit scores
Financial assistance, including loans and grants
Individual Development Accounts (IDA) that support matched savings for goals such as education, homeownership, or small business investment
Free tax preparation services (VITA)
To strengthen access to affordable financial products, the IRC operates the Center for Economic Opportunity (CEO), a U.S. Treasury‑certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that offers credit‑building, auto, and small business loans to low‑income borrowers.
Events & Opportunities in Support of Clients
We offer ongoing opportunities for clients to access services, gain exposure for their businesses, and participate in community‑based events.
2026 Free Tax Preparation (VITA) — Now Open
The VITA program offers free tax preparation to individuals and families earning $75,000 or less.
Interested in volunteering as a tax preparer or tax screener? Learn more here »
New American Dream Lab (NADL)
The New American Dream Lab is an annual business pitch competition supporting refugee and minority‑owned small businesses.
The 2026 pitch competition will take place in the summer.
Pop-Up Shops
We periodically partner with local businesses and community organizations to host pop‑up shops for refugee and new American entrepreneurs. Stay tuned for upcoming opportunities.
The Work of the IRC
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) helps people affected by humanitarian crises—including the climate crisis—to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. Founded in 1933, the IRC works in over 40 crisis‑affected countries and in communities across the United States, supporting health, education, and economic self‑reliance while addressing inequalities facing women and girls.
