Written by Kristina Gómez, Business & Technology Library Services Manager, Milwaukee Public Library
Photos by Dr. Shakkiah Curtis
What happens when a library invites an expert to move in with big ideas and community passion? Connections, fresh perspectives and shared learning! Public libraries help break down barriers to economic equity while often serving as the entry point to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Services we provide to entrepreneurs include free access to technology, premium market research databases, workshops, books, magazines, and more. One area library staff don’t necessarily have expertise is the lived experience of starting a business and the challenges and rewards that come with that journey. How to bridge that gap and leverage library resources to maximize impact? With the WiLS Ideas to Action Fund, Milwaukee Public Library leveled-up support to entrepreneurs by welcoming Dr. Shakkiah Curtis as the Library Entrepreneur-in-Residence. Dr. Curtis operates multiple successful businesses in Southeastern Wisconsin and brings a wealth of experience in tech, finance, wellness, and leadership. Our goals are clear: reach and uplift aspiring entrepreneurs in Milwaukee and develop accessible pathways to success for all.
Milwaukee Public Library’s Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) reaches early stage entrepreneurs and individuals with big ideas but limited access to traditional support systems. We’re doing this through free weekly Entrepreneurship Lab workshops and personalized coaching sessions. Weekly Entrepreneurship Labs are led by the Library EIR and feature experts across industries and experiences. Weekly workshop topics include: Building a Sustainable Business Model, Financial Literacy and Funding Strategies, Marketing and Branding Essentials, Tech Integration for Small Businesses, Leadership Development and Networking Skills, and Navigating Growth and Scaling Strategies. By partnering with local experts through Dr. Curtis’ vast network, we ensure each workshop is rooted in real-world expertise and tailored to the needs of our city’s diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem.
One of our most exciting early wins has been the strong turnout and engagement at our Entrepreneurship Lab workshops and coaching sessions. Registration has been at capacity with waitlists. Best of all, attendees are actively networking, collaborating, and applying what they learn to their business ideas. They’re making connections outside of class, attending other library events and using our meeting spaces. It’s clear we’re not only sharing information but building momentum and community, which is exactly what we set out to do.
A few words from participants:
- “This session was very engaging and I absorbed so much information. Thank you!”
- “The coaching session was excellent and I feel better prepared on my journey.”
- “This workshop brought many focused ideas for me to move forward in my venture.”
We’re currently wrapping up the residency and are excited to stay connected to these talented entrepreneurs and the many collaborators who made the series a success. The feedback and suggestions collected will inform future initiatives and services offered by Milwaukee Public Library’s business team and we’re working to create a toolkit for other public libraries interested in implementing a similar model. Thank you to WiLS for supporting this project and helping us create a space where ideas take root and Milwaukee’s next generation of entrepreneurs can truly grow.
