While ordering a grande Americano with room at Starbucks the other day, I noticed a counter display. It had a stack of cards with the title “Let’s Create Jobs for USA” across the top and then below it a red, white, and blue wristband. It’s elastic and not the usual plastic you see in these things, and, it has a coupler made of metal with the word “invincible” engraved on it. They requested a $5 donation.  I read the cards and bought one on the spot.

I’m proud to wear it. The answer to my question of whether a wristband can create USA jobs is an emphatic Yes. There are already innovation success stories. I’m a wristband-come-lately — this has been going on since last November.

Hats off to Starbucks for linking with the Opportunity Finance Network (see: createjobsforUSA.org) to raise awareness for job creation — and actually help fund entrepreneurs. Starbucks donated 5 Mil to kick start the effort. The idea behind the wristband is awareness AND, it’s also about funding underserved businesses (aren’t banks supposed to do this?). I see this as a very creative way to create jobs. It’s a donation you’re making, but I like the idea that it funds growth and jobs directly.

Small businesses create jobs, it’s a fact. And, it’s also a fact that many small businesses with good ideas, solid business models, and hard working people can’t get the money they need to grow. Once upon a time, banks did this work, but in many places banks have become disconnected from the communities they purport to serve. This effort by Opportunity Finance Network seeks to create a national network of more community friendly lenders to fill the gap, and, grow USA jobs.

Google Offers, Banana Republic, Take Part, Blast Radius, and NASDAQ OMS are also supporting the effort.

So, head over to your local Starbucks USA readers, and buy an overpriced coffee, and, a wristband. The unemployed American you’re helping thanks you in advance.