Project M.O.S.T. – Empowering San Diego’s Minority-Owned Businesses with Real Results

Over the last two years, Black Tech Link, in partnership with The Prep Institute, has been at the heart of one of the most transformational support programs for minority-owned businesses and nonprofits in San Diego County: Project M.O.S.T.—the Minority Owned Support and Technical Assistance Initiative.

Backed by the County of San Diego and Live Well San Diego, Project M.O.S.T. was born from direct community feedback. Minority-led organizations voiced their need for support, resources, and training—and this initiative answered the call. Black Tech Link, under the leadership of Executive Director Elizabeth Cotton, stepped in as a key facilitator, shaping a grassroots-powered program that directly addressed those challenges.

Listening First, Acting Second

At the core of Project M.O.S.T. was a simple yet revolutionary idea: listen to what the community needs—and build from there. Rather than assuming what would be helpful, Black Tech Link and The Prep Institute surveyed small businesses and nonprofits across the region. They asked what kind of training was needed. What barriers existed. What dreams were waiting for the right push.

What came next was a program unlike anything else in the region.

From Information to Implementation: A New Way of Teaching

One of the most impactful pieces of Project M.O.S.T. was the Open Entry, Open Exit (OEOE) workshop series, led by Black Tech Link. These weren’t typical webinars. They were participatory, action-driven sessions that allowed attendees to:

  • Learn about business-critical tools like fund development, government procurement, bookkeeping, and AI

  • Practice using these tools live during sessions

  • Share real challenges and network through a segment called TalkBack, which created safe spaces for reflection, support, and community building

Through a network of over 7,000 professionals, many of whom are BIPOC entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders themselves, Black Tech Link created an environment where trust and relatability amplified learning outcomes.

“People didn’t just sit and listen,” Elizabeth says. “They implemented. They practiced. They built new systems right there in the room.”

Demystifying Government Contracting

One major component of the initiative was preparing organizations to enter the world of government contracting. Through OEOE workshops and direct collaboration with San Diego County procurement officers, participants learned how to:

  • Prepare bids and proposals

  • Understand compliance requirements

  • Navigate platforms like Cal eProcure, Binet, and others

  • Calculate true costs and create sustainable financial models

A 30-day financial management training offered through the program gave participants access to advanced strategies, from indirect cost rate development to scenario planning and digital bookkeeping systems.

This helped break down one of the most misunderstood and intimidating growth avenues for small organizations: government funding.

Technology Access and the Digital Divide

While many programs discuss the digital divide, Project M.O.S.T. directly addressed it.

Instead of simply introducing tools like AI, digital bookkeeping, or marketing platforms, Black Tech Link provided:

  • Live tutorials and demonstrations

  • Guided walkthroughs

  • On-demand resources (coming soon!)

This hands-on approach helped many entrepreneurs overcome fears, adopt tools, and modernize operations—regardless of prior tech comfort.

What Makes Project M.O.S.T. Different?

The secret isn’t just in the curriculum. It’s in the intention.

“We don’t see growth as hiring or funding alone,” said Natashe Muschette. “We define it as increasing your organization’s ability to solve social problems.”

This philosophy underpinned every workshop, incubator, and coaching session. And through every phase, there was a consistent thread: representation matters. The facilitators reflected the communities they served, helping build the trust that’s essential for transformation.

What’s Next: Black Tech Link’s Vision

Although the current phase of Project M.O.S.T. is concluding, the work continues.

Black Tech Link is expanding its Small Business Mastery Program—offering continued workshops, 1-on-1 technical assistance, and expert matchmaking. Even more exciting, they’re developing an on-demand resource hub, where past and future sessions can be accessed anytime.

Elizabeth Cotton and her team are also scaling their reach through partnerships with the City of San Diego, State of California, and community institutions—all while staying rooted in the mission of elevating BIPOC-led businesses and nonprofits with sustainable, real-world solutions.

Want to Join the Movement?

If you’re a small business or nonprofit looking to grow, modernize, and get connected to real opportunity—Black Tech Link is here for you.

➡️ Visit blacktechlink.org
📌 Click on the Small Business Mastery Program
🗓️ Book a free session by hitting Talk With an Expert

Your mission deserves to thrive. Let’s make that happen—together.