The Blue Umbrella, Inc. was founded in Indianapolis in 2015 with a simple but powerful mission: to uplift individuals from all walks of life by equipping them with the tools to build stable, self-sufficient futures. Our organization was born out of both compassion and legacy. Cofounder David Taylor was deeply inspired by his grandmother, a woman whose life was defined by service to others in need. Her example of quiet generosity and unwavering commitment to community became the foundation upon which The Blue Umbrella was built. Alongside Chris Matthews, they transformed that inspiration into action, creating an organization dedicated to meeting people where they are and helping them move forward.
From the beginning, we recognized that many individuals in vulnerable populations (whether due to economic hardship, educational gaps, or systemic barriers) face limited access to opportunities that foster long-term stability. Through our work in High School Equivalency (HSE) classes, English Language Learning (ELL) programs, and entrepreneurial training, we have seen first-hand a strong desire not just for education, but for empowerment. Our participants are not only seeking jobs, they are seeking ownership, independence, and the ability to create generational change.
This insight led us to develop a comprehensive, custom-designed entrepreneurship program tailored specifically to the needs of our community. Beyond simply teaching how to start a business, our curriculum provides a strong foundation in financial literacy, investing, resource acquisition, business etiquette, and effective pitching. We believe that true success requires more than an idea. It requires preparation, confidence, and access to practical tools.
To support this mission, we created our own textbooks and instructional materials, which have achieved a 96% pass rate for the CTECS U.S. Entrepreneurship Certification exam. Our outcomes reflect both the effectiveness of our approach and the determination of those we serve. In the past year alone, our participants have incorporated 12 businesses across Indiana, completed 33 fully developed and bound business plans, and produced 10 marketing plans for existing businesses. These are not just numbers; they represent lives changed, families supported, and communities strengthened.
As Indianapolis continues to grow, so does the demand for accessible, high-quality programming that meets people at the intersection of education and economic opportunity. The Blue Umbrella is uniquely positioned to meet this need, but our capacity is limited by available resources. With additional funding, we will expand our reach, enhance our programming, and serve more individuals who are ready to take the next step toward self-sufficiency.
Our story is one of legacy, resilience, and impact, and with the right support, it is a story that will continue to grow.