Branches, a Miami-based nonprofit dedicated to building brighter futures for families, recently announced $500,000 in funding from JPMorganChase to expand its Micro-Business Program, supporting 300 micro and small businesses across Miami-Dade County over two years.
The grant is part of JPMorganChase’s support for Momentum Miami and will fund a cohort-based initiative designed to help local entrepreneurs adapt and thrive in an increasingly digital economy. Through structured training, access to technology, and ongoing mentorship, participating businesses will strengthen their operations, improve efficiency, and build long-term sustainability.
“This investment from JPMorganChase is a powerful vote of confidence for Miami’s small business community,” said Brent McLaughlin, president and CEO of Branches. “By combining technology access, practical training, and hands-on mentorship, we’re helping entrepreneurs build the digital capacity they need to compete, adapt, and thrive.”
Program participants will receive:
• Access to technology, including laptops and app subscriptions;
• Technology-focused microgrants to offset costs for software and internet access;
• Structured, hands-on digital literacy training tailored to adult learners and small business needs;
• Step-by-step guidance through the technology adoption process, and
• Ongoing mentorship, peer learning, and progress check-ins to build digital confidence and accountability.
Grant funds will primarily support program staff, participant subgrants, and technology resources, ensuring businesses receive both the tools and the guidance needed to implement meaningful, lasting change.
“Modern problems require modern solutions, which makes helping Miami’s small businesses adapt to an increasingly digital world so essential,” said Maria Escorcia, Southeast Region head of Global Philanthropy at JPMorganChase. “This funding will help ensure these businesses have the updated tools and resources they need to contribute to their communities’ future prosperity. We are excited to support Branches as they expand this initiative.”
Miami-Dade County is home to thousands of micro-businesses that serve as critical drivers of the local economy. Many operate with limited resources and face barriers to adopting new technologies. This initiative directly addresses those gaps, equipping entrepreneurs with practical skills and support to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.
For more details, contact Isabelle Pike by telephone at 305-206-5689, email at ipike@branchesfl.org or visit branchesfl.org.
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