No Digital Footprint
In-person-only retailers are invisible online. As shoppers move to search, social, and marketplaces, walk-in traffic isn't enough to keep the lights on.
A Southern Lion + ITDP Initiative
Leading the A.I. & Digital Revolution for Charlotte Metro Entrepreneurs.
Southern Lion is raising $3M annually to bring thousands of Charlotte metro entrepreneurs into the A.I. and digital age — equipping local retailers with the artificial intelligence, e-commerce, and social-media tools they need to scale, grow earnings, and expand their economic footprint.
In partnership with ITDP — a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
The Challenge
Local retailers need digital tools to scale.
As commerce moves online, brick-and-mortar entrepreneurs face growing pressure to adapt. Most don't have the technology or training to expand their reach alone.
No Business Infrastructure
Without modern POS, payments, fulfillment, or data, small operators can't scale. Thinning margins and limited digital infrastructure restrict their growth potential.
No Growth Pathway
There's no clear ladder from microbusiness to scaled enterprise — no training, no capital, no hands-on coaching to bridge the digital gap.
Our Solution
Three Ways We Help You Grow
Practical programs designed for busy entrepreneurs — from your first online sale to your next customer.
Launch Online
E-Commerce
Many of our businesses want to sell online but don't know where to start. We build your online store with you — products, payments, and shipping — so you go from in-person only to selling everywhere.
Build Your Presence
Social Media
Most of our businesses have no social media at all. We set up your accounts, create your content, and teach you a simple posting routine so customers can find and follow you.
Learn AI for Your Business
AI
Our entrepreneurs are eager to learn AI. We teach practical AI tools that write your product descriptions, create your marketing, and save you hours every week — no tech background needed.
Already in the marketplace? You're already in the program. Training and support happen right here, where you work.
[X]
businesses under one roof
[Y]
going online
[Z]
learning AI
How It Works
A clear path from application to graduation.
01
Apply
Vendors apply through a simple intake form.
02
Onboard & Train
Hands-on training in operations, e-commerce, and marketing.
03
Launch Online
Storefront goes live with payments, shipping, and fulfillment.
04
Grow & Graduate
Coaching and data drive scale — from microbusiness to enterprise.
The Partnership
Southern Lion × ITDP
Southern Lion brings the retail space, the entrepreneurs, and the operating expertise. ITDP — the International Technology Development Program — brings 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, mission-aligned governance, and access to philanthropic capital. Together, we're raising $3M annually to bring thousands of Charlotte metro entrepreneurs into the digital age through technological empowerment.
ITDP EIN: [EIN PLACEHOLDER]
501(c)(3) Benefits
- Tax-deductible contributions for donors and foundations
- Access to foundation and grant capital
- Mission-aligned governance and oversight
- Accountable, transparent fund management
Contributions to ITDP may be tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. Consult your tax advisor.
Impact
Measurable economic development.
Southern Lion is helping local retailers in our retail space advance their scalability, economic footprint, and earnings potential.
"When a local entrepreneur stays open, a whole block stays alive."
Get Involved
Two ways to power the initiative.
Whether you're a vendor ready to grow or a funder ready to invest in community economic development — there's a place for you.
For Vendors
Apply to the program
Tell us about your business. We'll review your application and reach out about onboarding, training, and storefront launch.
For Funders & Donors
Back the $3M initiative
The Entrepreneur Empowerment Initiative is a $3M annual program delivering technology, training, and storefronts to local retailers. Contributions made through ITDP, our 501(c)(3) partner, may be tax-deductible.
Sponsor a cohort, fund a storefront, or underwrite training — every dollar moves a business online.