About BEAM

The story of Pittsburgh-based BEAM Collaborative is not simply about starting an organization; it’s about catalyzing economic transformation and building stronger communities.

Born from a shared commitment to address the systemic barriers hindering local businesses, BEAM is driving the creation of a robust ecosystem.

Since its inception, BEAM has assessed the detailed spend of some of the Pittsburgh region’s largest and most sophisticated anchors including corporates, universities, and utilities – an analysis of $27 billion.

We are an economic development organization that convenes anchor institutions and local businesses to create procurement strategies that increase investment in the local economy.

BEAM Collaborative Model

The BEAM Multiplier Effect:

A new economic paradigm, our model revolves around the impactful cycle of investment return in the local economy. For instance, every dollar invested in Pittsburgh generates a return of $1.96.

Changing Beliefs Through Action:

At BEAM, we recognize that true change begins with action, leading to shifts in belief. Our supply side strategy encompasses four core areas—Build, Expand, Attract, and Merge—to promote growth and sustainability among small businesses.

Understanding Demand:

Our partnership with U3 Advisors pinpoints the evolving needs of the corporate community, ensuring our strategies are both reactive and proactive.

Our Story

Following the global protests sparked by the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis in 2020, there came a reckoning over everything from public monuments to the names of sports teams.

In Pittsburgh, there was a confluence of individuals who understood the dramatic consequences disparities have had on the economic vitality of our region.

A shared conviction emerged from discussions among Will Allen of Magarac Venture Partners; Joel Burstein, Founder and CEO of Keep It Simple Training and Development; Tricia Warrick, CEO, Coach, and Chair of Vistage Worldwide, LLC; and Joe Massaro III, CEO of Massaro Construction Company – addressing the region’s persistent racial wealth gap is intrinsically connected to the prosperity of small, locally-owned businesses. By fostering the growth of these enterprises, the overall quality of life of the region will be significantly enhanced.

We launched BEAM to materially transform the way wealth is created and maintained in our communities, seeking to add and sustain wealth in western Pennsylvania. We’re doing something different where everybody wins.