Trep House is a business with a network orientation — that is, it generates its value through connecting disparate people and groups who would not easily find each other otherwise, and by activating and capitalizing on this network to create additional value for participants. This orientation is most commonly found among member-based organizations, ranging from business associations to social media networks. These business are primarily focused on
(1) creating value for the participants, which may come from the organization itself or from other members, and
(2) building and leveraging relationships, group identity and other network effects.
Because Trep House connects several different market segments, it has slightly differing value propositions for each segment.
Members: Trep House provides community, identity reinforcement, growth in practical and “soft” skills, and trusted connections to resources, ranging from advising to fundraising.
Sponsors: Trep House enables sponsors to demonstrate support for Black and minority entrepreneurship, increase their pipeline of Black and minority suppliers and intrapreneurs, meet sustainability/social justice and similar corporate goals, and generate positive public relations and media placement opportunities.
Partner organizations, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities, entrepreneurship programs, economic development organizations and similar others: Trep House allows them to provide tangible and practical support for Black and minority entrepreneurs, increase their capacity to serve these populations without substantial investment, meet sustainability/social justice and similar corporate goals, and generate positive public relations and media placement opportunities.
Investors: Trep House provides access to a vetted body of Black and minority entrepreneurs that they would not be able to find otherwise, permits them to evaluate investment opportunities comprehensively, and allows them to place funds as desired with professionally-managed investment vehicles specialized in Black and minority businesses.
If one of these fits you, you belong in Trep House. Learn more about membership.
