The Lab (She Can Work)
Engagement Levels
Level 2 – Exploration & Expression
Pathway: Supporting Small Business & Economic Equity
Sub-Pathway: Business Exploration & Capacity Building
Website: https://www.shecanwork.org/thelab
Organization: She Can Work Foundation – supporting women of color entrepreneurs
Overview
The Lab is a 12-week hybrid program (in-person + virtual) based in Houston, TX. It supports aspiring and new women-of-color entrepreneurs in the ideation stage, enabling them to test and validate their business ideas using the proven Woodforest Foundry methodology, free of charge.
Why It Matters
Access to capital and professional guidance is crucial but often limited for women of color. The Lab fills this gap by providing structured support, mentorship, and community—helping founders build confidence and early-stage traction for their ventures.
Alignment with The Change Lab
This program is core to our Basic Needs & Economic Security domain, while also supporting Culturally Responsive Capacity Building. It aligns with Change Lab goals by empowering individuals economically through community-based entrepreneurship and equity-driven design. The Lab reflects systems thinking by addressing structural access gaps in startup ecosystems.
Key Program Features & Links
Program Homepage (Apply Now)
https://www.shecanwork.org/thelab — 12-week incubator for idea validation bwfund.org+4SHE CAN WORK+4SHE CAN WORK+4Woodforest Foundry Curriculum — Framework for testing business viability SHE CAN WORK
Mentorship & Networking — Access to Houston-area business leaders SHE CAN WORK+2SHE CAN WORK+2SHE CAN WORK+2
Hybrid Delivery — Combines virtual sessions with in-person hubs in Houston She Can+4SHE CAN WORK+4hrfuture.net+4
No Cost Admission — Fully funded by She Can Work; no fee to participate
Role in the Ecosystem
The Lab acts as a pipeline builder and prototype incubator, bridging the gap between early-stage ideas and actionable planning. It supports a community of BIPOC women entrepreneurs, fostering a more diverse and resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Personal Agency & Civic Responsibility
Rights & Responsibilities — Founders have the right to equitable resources and the responsibility to steward community benefit.
Personal Agency — Participants leave with the tools and autonomy to launch businesses, create jobs, and uplift their communities economically and culturally.
