At the Russell Center, we believe in the power of women’s leadership to drive change, dismantle barriers, and expand opportunities for Black entrepreneurs.
As we continue our Women’s History Month celebration, we proudly recognize the trailblazing women leading our in-house partner organizations that were intentionally curated to be inside of the center helping to create the conditions needed for Black entrepreneurs to thrive —nonprofits dedicated to expanding access to capital, fostering economic mobility, and empowering historically underserved entrepreneurs. These dynamic leaders not only head powerful organizations but have also dedicated their careers to creating a more equitable and thriving business landscape for Black-owned businesses in Atlanta and beyond.
Let’s meet the women who mean business working right here inside of RICE’s walls —visionaries shaping the future of Black entrepreneurship.
Elizabeth Wilson – Co-Founder & Executive Director, Georgia Micro Enterprise Network (GMEN)
A seasoned advocate, strategist, and entrepreneur, Elizabeth Wilson has spent decades championing economic justice for microbusinesses—the backbone of local economies. As Co-Founder and Executive Director of GMEN, she has worked to bridge the gap between policymakers, financial institutions, and small business owners, ensuring that micro-enterprises receive the funding and technical support they need to flourish.
Under her leadership, GMEN has grown into a vital resource for Georgia’s micro-businesses, supporting thousands of entrepreneurs—particularly those from underrepresented communities.
GMEN’s Impact & Programs:
GMEN is committed to strengthening small business success through:
- Capital Readiness & Loan Programs: Connecting entrepreneurs with micro-loans and funding opportunities.
- Technical Assistance & Training: Providing essential business education, from financial literacy to marketing.
- Advocacy & Policy Leadership: Working with policymakers to create fairer economic conditions for small business owners.
Elizabeth’s passion for economic inclusion has made her a transformational force in Georgia’s small business ecosystem—fighting for micro-businesses and ensuring that Black entrepreneurs receive the resources they need to thrive. Read more about her legacy and impact here.
Martina Edwards – President & CEO, Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE)
A trailblazer in finance and economic equity, Martina Edwards made history as the first Black female member on the trading floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Her extensive background in investment banking, philanthropy, and capital access has positioned her as a champion for small business owners, particularly those historically excluded from traditional lending institutions.
Now, as President & CEO of Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE), Martina leads one of the largest nonprofit lenders in Georgia, ensuring that women- and minority-owned businesses have the financial resources and strategic guidance to grow and succeed.
ACE’s Impact & Programs:
ACE is a mission-driven Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) providing:
- Small Business Loans & Funding: Offering microloans, growth capital, and lines of credit to entrepreneurs.
- Business Coaching & Financial Education: Helping business owners navigate financial challenges and create sustainable growth strategies.
- Specialized Programs for Women & Minority Entrepreneurs: Focused on addressing systemic barriers to accessing capital.
Through her leadership, Martina is reshaping how small business owners access financial resources—ensuring Black entrepreneurs are not just funded, but fully supported in their journeys to long-term success.
Joli Cooper – Executive Director, Greenlight Fund Atlanta
A visionary leader in community investment and economic mobility, Joli Cooper is dedicated to identifying and funding solutions that break cycles of generational poverty. As Executive Director of Greenlight Fund Atlanta, she is responsible for bringing proven, innovative programs to Atlanta that address the most pressing needs of local entrepreneurs and small business owners.
With a background in philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, and impact investing, Joli ensures that resources flow into the communities that need them most—helping businesses and individuals overcome systemic challenges to financial success.
Greenlight Fund Atlanta’s Impact & Programs:
- Investing in Proven Solutions: Identifying and funding high-impact initiatives from across the country to bring to Atlanta.
- Community Engagement & Collaboration: Partnering with local businesses, leaders, and organizations to ensure that solutions meet the real needs of the community.
- Building Pathways to Economic Success: Implementing programs designed to address racial disparities in business ownership and generational wealth-building.
Through her leadership, Joli is redefining how capital and opportunities flow into Atlanta’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, ensuring that Black business owners have access to the tools they need to create lasting change.
Janelle Williams, PhD – Executive Director, Kindred Futures (Formerly AWBI)
A renowned economist and advocate for economic mobility, Dr. Janelle Williams has dedicated her career to researching and addressing the systemic challenges that limit wealth-building opportunities for Black communities.
Now, as Executive Director of Kindred Futures (formerly the Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative – AWBI), she is leading efforts to design and implement bold strategies that empower Black entrepreneurs and business owners. With a deep understanding of economic policy, racial wealth disparities, and systemic barriers to success, Dr. Williams is committed to reshaping the financial future of Black communities.
Kindred Futures’ Impact & Programs:
- Wealth Equity Research & Policy Advocacy: Driving data-backed policy changes that support Black wealth-building.
- Entrepreneurial Support & Coaching: Providing technical assistance, mentorship, and direct business support.
- Strategic Partnerships for Black-Owned Businesses: Collaborating with financial institutions, investors, and community organizations to reduce financial disparities and promote wealth equity.
With Dr. Williams’ expertise in economic policy and systemic change, Kindred Futures is not just supporting Black entrepreneurs—it’s working to transform the systems that have historically disadvantaged them.
Women Leading the Way in the RICE Ecosystem
At RICE, we are proud to work alongside these dynamic women as they continue to reshape Atlanta’s business landscape and create a future where Black-owned businesses can thrive at every level.
This Women’s History Month, we celebrate Martina, Elizabeth, Joli, Janelle, and all the women that make up this powerful ecosystem —not just for the work they do, but for the barriers they break, the doors they open, and the legacies they are building for future generations.
Let’s continue to celebrate, support, and uplift the women who mean business—today and every day.
