There are 28 million sole proprietors in America. They have no HR department, no benefits office, no union. The Scaffold Initiative is a workforce development organization dedicated to closing that gap — especially in Black, Hispanic, and underserved communities where sole proprietorship is highest and support is lowest.
Hands-on training and AI business operations literacy for one-person businesses — delivered through trade schools, community colleges, SBDCs, and workforce centers.
State-by-state legislative work to establish portable benefits, sole proprietor protections, and legal frameworks that recognize AI agents in business structures.
Original research on the micro-business gap in underserved communities — who sole proprietors are, what they need, and what policies actually work.
The Scaffold Foundation is our 501(c)(3) sister organization, currently in formation. Where the Initiative advocates and organizes, the Foundation funds the work — education, research, and direct training programs for sole proprietors in underserved communities.
Founding board currently being assembled. If you're interested in board service or want to learn more, reach out.
outreach@thescaffoldinitiative.orgWhether you're an educator, workforce board member, funder, or community leader — there's a role for you.
Questions? Reach us at outreach@thescaffoldinitiative.org