2024 Alumni Survey Results

Dear CIC Alumni,

Thank you to everyone who completed our most recent Alumni Survey. Your feedback helps us stay focused on what matters most—building stronger support systems for entrepreneurs like you across Virginia.

You’re building something big.

Your responses revealed a community of dedicated business builders striving toward their goals.

56% of you have transformed your entrepreneurial vision into your primary source of income. Congrats! On average, CIC alumni businesses are generating nearly $20,000 in monthly sales, creating jobs and contributing directly to Virginia’s local economy.

Your responses also reflect the diversity that makes our community strong. Reaching our target demographic serves as a powerful reminder of why CIC exists—to serve and uplift historically underserved entrepreneurs.

You’re making the most of CIC’s support.

The most-utilized programs among alumni include:

• Networking events (36%)
• Financial management support (30%)
• Mentoring (28%)
• Advising with the Small Business Development Center (28%)
• Accessing capital to fuel business growth (17%)

Your participation shows us that CIC is offering practical tools that are helpful to sustained growth.

You showed us what’s next.

One common theme in your feedback was the need for clearer access to strategic planning and financing programs. We’re working on improving how we communicate those opportunities and streamlining the application process.

You also highlighted the importance of expanding outreach to Hispanic entrepreneurs. In response, we’re building partnerships and communication strategies to reach more entrepreneurs in those communities.

We’re moving forward—together.

Your input is already shaping our next steps. We’re excited to announce the relaunch of our Entrepreneur Advisory Board to bring your voice directly into CIC’s planning and programming. If you expressed interest, you’ll receive word of next steps soon. We’re also refining our services based on the opportunities you identified.

Thank you again for your honesty, your insight, and your continued commitment to growth. CIC exists because of entrepreneurs like you, and we can’t wait to keep building with you.

Gratefully,

The CIC Team