Black Innovation Alliance’s Post

Why do Black women become entrepreneurs? For many of us, it's about creating our own lanes and claiming our power. Black women have always been innovators, leaders, and change-makers—so stepping into entrepreneurship is a natural evolution. We start businesses to build generational wealth, to uplift our communities, and to create spaces where our voices are heard. 💪🏾💼 The journey isn’t always easy, but we turn our struggles into strength. We’re forging paths that honor our culture, our passions, and our purpose. Here's to Black women who continue to rise and redefine success on our own terms. 👑✨ #BlackWomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #BossMoves #BlackExcellence #WomenWhoLead

Last week, I had the opportunity to attend the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce's inaugural Growing Together Women in Business Breakfast. It was a great experience and I got the chance to speak with other female leaders in the #nashville business community. The real treat was the keynote - Gina Schaefer. She shared her incredible story of #smallbusiness success, starting with owning one Ace Hardware location in the early 2000s in Logan Circle (Washington D.C.) and building her hardware empire to 13 stores and an 8-figure revenue operation with ~300 employees. She witnessed the transformation of a neighborhood and the power that community and small business played in that transformation. She also beat the odds by being a very successful female entrepreneur in the hardware store industry (shockingly, a male-dominated space.). There was so much to take away from her talk (I may have to write a full Empower LLC newsletter post about it), but three lessons she shared really stuck in mind: 💡 Know what your strengths are in your business and where you're best positioned to focus your efforts. For the things that don't fit those categories, bring in trusted experts who can augment and support you. 💡 Know when to change and understand that what people want from you and your business will evolve. 💡 The more you focus on the people side of your business (i.e., your team), the more successful you will be. Employees are integral to the customer experience, so hire people who embody your core values, and don't underestimate the importance of the fundamentals. I launched Empower this year because of my dedication to helping more emerging businesses and early-stage startups succeed. I hope to drive the type of impact that will empower our partners to reach similar heights to Gina's enterprise. Here's to building long-term success together! If you were at the breakfast and we didn't get to meet, say 👋 to connect. 🗨 If you have #businesslessons to share, add them to the comments!

Black women are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to entrepreneurship. We are starting businesses at an unprecedented rate and making a significant impact on the economy. Here are some eye-opening stats that showcase the power of black women in business: - According to the 2019 State of Women-Owned Businesses report, there are 2.4 million black women-owned businesses in the United States, representing the fastest-growing segment of entrepreneurs. - Black women-owned businesses generate $187 billion in revenue annually, with an average revenue growth rate of 164% from 2017 to 2018. - Black women are the only racial or ethnic group with more business ownership than their male counterparts, with 6.4% of black women being business owners compared to 5.9% of black men. - Black women-owned businesses are more likely to hire other black women and provide them with leadership opportunities, creating a ripple effect of economic empowerment within their communities. - The number of black women-owned businesses grew by 164% between 2007 and 2018, compared to just a 58% increase in women-owned businesses overall. It's clear that black women entrepreneurs are making a significant impact on the economy and breaking down barriers in the business world. So if you're a black woman with an entrepreneurial spirit, know that you have the power to make a difference and create a thriving business. Keep pushing forward and inspiring others to do the same! We see you. We support you. #blackwomeninbusiness #womenentrepreneurs #entrepreneurmindset #womeninbusiness #blackgirlmagic #girlboss #smallbusinessowner #womenempowerment #TheWELL #ShesWELLnetworked

What a wonderful few days! Celebrating milestones with my client partners and now with my own team at Talk to Jess, LLC. Thrilled to be in such stellar company with this class of founders for Inc. Magazine. 📣 To anyone out there wondering if following their passion is worth the hard work + perseverance it takes to keep showing up EVERY day, I send you all the encouragement to JUMP! The world needs you!⁠ #FemaleFounders #WorkInAction #Entrepreneurship #Marketing #Representation #Leadership #Advertising #Inclusion ⁠

Within the intricate tapestry of business, amidst the flurry of strategies and bottom lines, lies a profound truth: the heart of any successful venture beats within its people. Zig Ziglar's wisdom reminds us that businesses aren't mere structures of steel and glass; they are vibrant communities of individuals, each with unique talents, dreams, and aspirations. By prioritizing the growth, well-being, and empowerment of our teams, we sow the seeds of enduring success. For it is through nurturing our people, fostering their potential, and igniting their passion that we cultivate a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration. In this journey, we realize that the true measure of prosperity isn't just in the numbers on a balance sheet, but in the lives we touch, the dreams we inspire, and the legacies we build together. So let us embark on this noble endeavor with zeal, for when we invest in our people, we lay the foundation upon which greatness is built. #dreamarchitect #parallelograminstitute #daphneyphillip #blackeducators #blackwomen #blackownedbusiness

I’m on my Michael Jackson energy…🕺🏾 “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough.” That’s the exact vibes I’m taking into the 4th quarter and diving into some exciting initiatives: 🏆Goldman Sachs’ One Million Black Women Cohort 6 👩🏾💻Launching a brand and website for a fantastic client 🤓Continuing to support my amazing clients ⭐️Restarting GrowUp Mastermind, our 6-week business intensive with my sister, Simone Little Before all that though, I had my first experience seeing MJ: The Musical, and it really hit home. Michael Jackson faced so many challenges—doubts, people trying to derail his dreams, and endless ‘no’s.’ But he kept moving forward, and that resilience reminded me of the work I do with my clients. As a brand strategist and coach, I help women entrepreneurs push past those obstacles to build brands that reflect their purpose and power, even when the road gets tough. This night out also reminded me why I do what I do—not just to work behind a screen, but to live a joyful and free life while helping others do the same. What’s one challenge you’re ready to move past this year? #womensupportingwomen #womenbusinessowners #entrepreneurs #csuite

𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐍𝐞𝐰𝐬! 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐅𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐇𝐮𝐛 (𝐁𝐅𝐅𝐇) 𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐄𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡! We are thrilled to announce the relaunch of the 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐅𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐇𝐮𝐛 (𝐁𝐅𝐅𝐇) set to take place at the end of this month! 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐅𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐇𝐮𝐛 (𝐁𝐅𝐅𝐇) was born from a powerful desire to change the narrative. Recognizing the lack of representation and resources for Black women in entrepreneurship, we transformed a small idea into a vibrant community. 𝐁𝐅𝐅𝐇 is more than just a community; it is a thriving ecosystem overflowing with resources, mentorship, and opportunities tailored to the unique challenges and aspirations of Black women entrepreneurs. Why We're Here: At 𝐁𝐅𝐅𝐇, we are committed to empowering Black Female Founders by providing a comprehensive ecosystem that supports their entrepreneurial journey from ideation to scale. Whether you're just starting out or ready to take your business to the next level, 𝐁𝐅𝐅𝐇 is your one-stop shop for encouragement, collaboration and success. Our Vision: We aim to become the leading hub for Black Female entrepreneurs globally, transforming the landscape of innovation and entrepreneurship. Our vision is a world where Black Female Founders are universally recognized as pivotal drivers of sectorial advancement and economic growth. Through 𝐁𝐅𝐅𝐇, we envision creating a nurturing, safe, and conducive environment that fosters the development of groundbreaking enterprises and ensures these founders become influential leaders shaping the future of global industries. Join us as we relaunch 𝐁𝐅𝐅𝐇 and continue to provide the tools, connections, and support needed to turn dreams into reality. Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to embark on a journey of empowerment and success! #BFFH #BlackFemaleFounders #Entrepreneurship #Empowerment #Innovation #Relaunch #Community #Support #Mentorship #Opportunity

True elevation happens when we come together and nothing embodies this more than members like Jamie Beale Howe, MBA, CCIM®, CPM®, RPA® and Katelyn N. Brewer. Jamie and KB gathered for an intentional strategy session, digging deep into ways to optimize their consulting businesses. Jamie shares that the power of having a genuine, like-minded community like Level gives her the space to not only thrive in her business but to feel supported on a personal level too. This is the beauty of Level—it's not just about business or networking; it's about creating a safe space for Black women and non-Black allies to elevate together, exchange resources, and propel each other forward. The relationships built here aren’t transactional—they’re built on trust, shared goals, and a mutual commitment to seeing each other win! 🎯✨ If you’re ready to take your life and business to the next level, you’ll find your people right here. Join us! https://lnkd.in/eNURgDf4 #LevelUp #CommunityMatters #WomenSupportingWomen #BusinessStrategy #LevelSisterhood #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #Community #Growth

Quotes I love from entrepreneurial women, for Women's History Month. Which ones resonate with you most right now? 1. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all. – Helen Keller 2. Build your business success around something that you love — something that is inherently and endlessly interesting to you. — Martha Stewart 3. I have never worked a day in my life without selling. If I believe in something, I sell it and I sell it hard. — Estee Lauder 4. A strong woman believes that she is strong enough to face her journey, and a woman of faith believes that it is in this journey that she will become strong. — Millie Leung 5. Nobody talks about entrepreneurship as a survival, but that's exactly what it is and what nurtures creative thinking. Running that first shop taught me business is not financial science; it's about trading: buying and selling. — Anita Roddick 6. Learn to embrace your own unique beauty, celebrate your unique gifts with confidence. Your imperfections are actually a gift. - Kerry Washington 7. What I learn from talking to so many women around the world: If you can empower them with the right things, the right tools. They can lift their family. And that ultimately lifts their community and their society. — Melinda Gates 8. Don't be intimidated by what you don't know. That can be your greatest strength and ensure that you do things differently from everyone else. — Sara Blakely 9. Your job as a leader is to stay as close in touch as possible with those closest to the action. — Kat Cole 10. Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, ‘I will try again tomorrow. — Mary Anne 11. Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. – Margaret Mead 12. Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim. - Nora Ephron 13. If your actions create a legacy that inspires others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, then, you are an excellent leader. - Dolly Parton 14. Stop giving upgrades to people you couldn't trust with small things, and start elevating those you can. — Kimberly R L Do you have a favorite that's not included, please share, I love a good quote 😊 #womeninbusiness #quotes #entrepreneurs

This morning marks a pivotal moment for me, stepping into the White House not just to glam A-list clients but to use my voice for a cause that’s close to my heart: championing #BIPOCBeautyBrands and pushing for greater inclusion in the beauty industry. Thanks to the incredible support of sisters like @swalkerwil, who advocate for us in spaces we’ve yet to enter love you sis. I’ve been given the chance to join a vital panel discussion on diversity and inclusion. Spearheaded by VP Kamala Harris’s team, this opportunity allows me to represent the struggles and triumphs of Black women founders in the beauty sector, particularly the challenges we face in securing the financial backing needed to scale our brands. As a second-time brand founder with over 25 years in the beauty and entertainment industries, I’m here to share our collective story. We’re not just seeking financial gains; we’re building legacies, creating jobs, and developing brands that will endure. Despite the creativity and hard work, less than 1% of Black women receive the necessary funding to elevate their brands, a stark contrast to the well-backed launches we often see. Our journey as Black owned brand founders—many of whom are industry vets with real-world experience—is about more than just entrepreneurship. It’s about turning hours of dedication and skill into innovative products that meet the needs of a diverse world. Today, I’m proud to lend my voice and experience to advocate for more support, more resources, and a broader platform for Black women entrepreneurs to thrive. Recent reports, like the Economic Advancement Report from Braintrust, highlight the significant contributions Black women make to the U.S. economy, including job creation and retail growth, driven by a demand for diverse and sustainable products. Yet, the landscape for securing venture capital remains bleak, with a mere 1% of all venture funding going to Black-founded companies. This lack of financial support hampers not only the individuals behind these ventures but also the broader society and economy. #DiversityInBeauty #InclusiveBeauty #BlackWomenEntrepreneurs #FinancialInclusion #BeautyInnovation #EmpoweringBlackFounders #ChangingTheNarrative