A leader, driving innovation, fostering community growth and shaping industries, is Edward DeJesus, founder of Social Capital Builders and an Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) at the Maryland Innovation Center (MIC). His work is redefining social capital in workforce development, helping businesses and individuals create sustainable economic opportunities.
Since becoming a MIC member in June 2021, Social Capital Builders has leveraged MIC’s resources to expand its reach. Starting on April 1, DeJesus will lead Social Capital for Entrepreneurial Success Academy, an engaging program designed to help entrepreneurs understand and leverage social capital to drive business success. His expertise, combined with MIC’s entrepreneurial support, provides invaluable guidance for startups and scaling businesses.
What is Social Capital and Why Does It Matter?
Social capital is the foundation of opportunity. It’s the network of relationships, trust and shared values that help individuals and businesses succeed. Traditional workforce development programs focus on skills and education, but DeJesus and his team recognize that who you know is just as important as what you know when building a career or business.
At Social Capital Builders, the focus is on integrating social capital strategies into workforce and entrepreneurship training. Their programs help individuals and businesses expand professional networks, build trust within industries and communities, and leverage connections for career and business growth.
For underrepresented communities, lack of access to strong networks can be a significant barrier to success. Social Capital Builders helps break down those barriers by providing training, digital platforms and partnerships that empower professionals to grow their networks and unlock new opportunities. By understanding and leveraging social capital, entrepreneurs can access new opportunities, gain referrals and build meaningful partnerships. Whether it’s securing funding, attracting new clients or forming collaborations, having a strong network is a game-changer for any business.
The Power of MIC Membership and Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs)
Since joining MIC in June 2021, Social Capital Builders has tapped into an ecosystem of support designed to help businesses scale. MIC provides mentorship, business coaching, connections to industry leaders and investors, workshops focused on real-world success and a collaborative environment that fosters innovation.
Entrepreneurs in Residence like DeJesus play a key role in guiding startups and scaling businesses. Through mentorship, coaching and hands-on expertise, they help founders navigate challenges, refine strategies and access the right resources at the right time. EIRs bring a wealth of experience and insight to the MIC community. They work directly with entrepreneurs to provide guidance on business strategy, leadership and growth opportunities. Having access to seasoned business leaders like DeJesus offers emerging business owners a competitive advantage in today’s marketplace.
The Social Capital for Entrepreneurial Success Academy at MIC is an opportunity for entrepreneurs to learn how to leverage social capital for long-term business success. Participants will gain actionable insights on building their professional networks, establishing credibility and accessing opportunities that might otherwise remain out of reach.
Why Social Capital is the Key to Business Success
One of the most valuable lessons for any entrepreneur is understanding the importance of relationships in business. Social capital is what turns introductions into opportunities, meetings into partnerships and ideas into thriving businesses.
At Social Capital Builders, the mission is clear—helping individuals and businesses understand how to build, nurture and leverage their networks to achieve success. This approach goes beyond traditional business development strategies by emphasizing relationship-driven success, access to new opportunities and sustainable business development.
Business growth often depends on referrals, partnerships and trusted connections. A strong professional network opens doors to funding, mentorship and strategic collaborations. Entrepreneurs with solid relationships are more likely to weather economic downturns and seize emerging opportunities. By integrating social capital strategies into workforce development, DeJesus and his team are helping individuals and businesses create long-term, sustainable growth.
Building a More Connected and Inclusive Future Through Social Capital
The work of Edward DeJesus and Social Capital Builders highlights the power of social capital in business and workforce development. Through MIC’s support, the EIR program and other MIC initiatives, entrepreneurs in Howard County have access to the tools they need to succeed.
Howard County’s business ecosystem thrives when entrepreneurs have access to connections, mentorship and strategic opportunities. MIC, through its programs and resources, ensures that every entrepreneur has the support they need to grow.
