Our Story
Founded 2019
Rebranded 2023
Health Equity
Nonprofit Growth
EDACT Academy
Founded 2019
Rebranded 2023
Health Equity
Nonprofit Growth
EDACT Academy
Founded 2019
Rebranded 2023
Health Equity
Nonprofit Growth
EDACT Academy
Founded 2019
Rebranded 2023
Health Equity
Nonprofit Growth
EDACT Academy
From One Community To A Movement
Seven moments that took EDACT from a single coalition to a capacity-building partner for underserved communities across Minnesota.
Founded As The Minnesota African Coalition
EDACT began in 2019 as the Minnesota African Coalition (MAC), formed during the COVID-19 pandemic to advocate for African immigrant and minority-owned businesses that were hit hardest by economic shutdowns and left out of relief efforts. MAC mobilized more than 30 community organizations and helped secure $20 million for minority-owned businesses through the Minnesota Small and Micro Business Disaster Relief Fund.
Rebranding To Equitable Development Action
That work revealed a deeper truth: unequal access to capital, information, and institutional systems was not an isolated problem, it was systemic. In June 2023 we rebranded as Equitable Development Action (EDACT), broadening our commitment from African immigrant and minority-owned businesses to underserved communities across Minnesota, especially the small businesses, nonprofits, and community care providers who need the tools, training, and support to grow, comply, secure funding, and sustain impact. The rebrand marked our shift from reactive advocacy to intentional, structured capacity development.
A Foundational Year
We introduced our new identity at a pre-launch kickoff, "Equitable Economic Development: Empowering Underserved Communities in the Post-George Floyd Era," and spent the rest of 2023 building programs, forging partnerships, and setting our mission in motion.
Health Equity & Compliance
Partnering with Black Business Enterprises, we launched the Chapter 245D Compliance Program through our Health Equity Program (HEP), helping health-sector organizations meet compliance requirements — and helped secure over half a million dollars in state appropriations for two organizations.
IAPN Expands To 8 Nonprofits
Our Incubation and Acceleration Program for Nonprofits (IAPN) grew to support 8 nonprofits, and we secured funding for technical assistance grants and the Mentor-Protégé Program (MPP) to further strengthen nonprofit and small business capacity.
Underserved Business Month Launches
We introduced Underserved Business Month (UBM) — our Kickoff Event drew over 100 attendees, and we supported more than 30 minority-owned businesses with growth and technical assistance.
EDACT Training Academy Opens
We launched the EDACT Training Academy, an online learning hub for underserved businesses and nonprofits, while deepening community partnerships and growing our staff and strategic reach.
A Future Built On Equity & Opportunity
As we continue to grow, we remain steadfast in our mission to advance equity, economic inclusion, and generational wealth building through capacity development. With a strong foundation, a clear vision, and a passionate team, EDACT is dedicated to creating a future where prosperity and opportunity are accessible to all.