The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) was founded in 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia, as a business incubator dedicated to supporting Black entrepreneurs. Inspired by the legacy of H.J. Russell, a prominent Black businessman and philanthropist, RICE aims to empower entrepreneurs and foster economic growth within the Black community. The center provides a range of resources, including mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to capital, to help entrepreneurs launch and scale their businesses.
Dr. Malcolm Muhammad is a prominent thought leader in entrepreneurship and innovation, dedicated to advancing business readiness and fostering economic growth through data-driven strategies. With a Doctor of Philosophy in Entrepreneurship from the University of Louisville, Dr. Muhammad currently serves as the Vice President of Data and Impact at the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), where he leads the development of the proprietary Readiness Scores. This innovative framework assesses and enhances the growth potential of businesses, focusing particularly on empowering Black entrepreneurs.
Dr. Muhammad’s expertise extends to his role as a Clinical Assistant Professor at the Entrepreneurship and Innovation Institute of Georgia State University’s Robinson College of Business. Here, he integrates cutting-edge academic research with practical application, preparing the next generation of entrepreneurs to thrive in diverse markets.
Throughout his career, Dr. Muhammad has been instrumental in designing impactful entrepreneurship and workforce development programs for universities, nonprofits, and government agencies. His work emphasizes the use of comprehensive data analytics to design and implement programs that effectively address the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs. His contributions to academic research include publications on internal corporate ventures and entrepreneurial ecosystems, further showcasing his commitment to leveraging knowledge for practical impact.
A frequent speaker and panelist, Dr. Muhammad is known for his engaging discussions on topics ranging from business growth strategies to the intersection of technology and entrepreneurship. His insights are sought after at major conferences and seminars, where he advocates for strategic, evidence-based approaches to nurturing business ecosystems.
Dr. Muhammad’s leadership at RICE and beyond reflects his deep commitment to
community transformation through entrepreneurship, making him a key figure in driving
sustainable economic development and innovation.