Fostering Belonging:
Ecosystem Mapping & Inclusive Entrepreneurship

2026 Mapping Inclusive Ecosystems: The NACCE Belonging Initiative

Discovering regional assets and driving high-tech, high-touch entrepreneurial opportunities nationwide.

Explore the EcoMap Project Now

Overview: The Belonging Initiative & EcoMap Project

Our Mission: Space, Place, and Purpose

What is The Belonging Initiative? Building ecosystem connections to empower non-traditional entrepreneurs and foster community resilience

What is the EcoMap Tool? The EcoMap technologies platform creates a structured data visualization of local resources. It allows student innovators, community builders, and local leaders to navigate their local business support networks smoothly.

The Pilot Program: National & Regional Assets

Scaling Local Impact with support from The Philip E. & Carole R. Ratcliffe Foundation, which funds hands-on training and economic opportunity in non-traditional
business sectors. 

Explore Ecosystem Resource Cards
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The Belonging Studio

Join Us at the 2026 NACCE Annual Conference

Location: Boston Park Plaza, Boston, MA

Dates: November 1-4, 2026

Studio Highlights (High-Tech & High-Touch)

Art & Expression: Immersive, creative spaces leveraging advanced makerspace technologies alongside tactile, artistic human interaction.

Prizes with Purpose: Every studio prize is purchased from diverse entrepreneurs who possess visible or invisible differences, directly funding and uplifting inclusive community business models.

Resource Hub & Engagement

Get Involved with the Movement

1. For Community Colleges: Learn how to adapt asset mapping to your local campus
2. For Entrepreneurs: Learn how to list your small business inside regional maps