The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) moved one step closer to completing its ambitious $44 million building expansion campaign with a recent generous $2 million donation from the Truist Foundation. 

The presentation of the check was presented at the RICE Atlanta headquarters, followed by a Truist panel discussion on access to capital for entrepreneurs. 

“RICE is honored to receive this investment from Truist Foundation and the Truist Trusteed Foundations, which will significantly bolster our mission to support  Black entrepreneurs in unprecedented ways,” said Jay Bailey, president, and CEO of RICE. “Through this collaboration, we are poised to drive economic impact and growth.” 

The partnership with Truist is one of several partnerships with large financial institutions that will help expand RICE programs beyond metro Atlanta to entrepreneurs of color nationwide. RICE is currently the only entrepreneur center of its type in the country that assists entrepreneurs from ideas to reality. 

Its mission is to continue the legacy of Herman J. Russell, who started the largest black construction company in the U.S., RICE, which is located in the old headquarters of the company in the Castleberry District. The company is currently operated by Russell’s children, who served on the board of RICE. 

“We are honored to celebrate the success of RICE and invest in a more inclusive business ecosystem in Atlanta,” said Lynette Bell, president of Truist Foundation. “RICE is known for driving entrepreneurs and small business owners to innovate, grow, create jobs, and build wealth, making them an integral partner to achieving Truist Foundation’s goal of increasing economic mobility for all.” 

The…