Black Innovation Alliance’s Post

Why It Matters

📈 Catalysts of Economic Growth: Black-Owned Businesses! The U.S. Joint Economic Committee highlights the significant contributions of over 3 million Black-owned businesses, injecting $200 billion annually into the U.S. economy and providing jobs for 1.2 million Americans. A recent U.S. Chamber of Commerce event delved into the history and challenges of Black entrepreneurship, stressing the need for a more equitable playing field. Nicholas Perkins, CEO of Perkins Management Services Company, underlines the importance of addressing gaps in access to capital and opportunities. Let's foster an environment where Black entrepreneurs thrive! 💼🌐 Read more about this on the link below: https://lnkd.in/eZzUhsHS #BusinessEquality#EconomicImpact#SupportBlackBusinesses #InclusiveOpportunities

Kauffman Foundation Explores “How to Rebuild Black Wall Street For Us All” at South by Southwest - [vc_video link="https://lnkd.in/gdPWceDk"] More than a century has passed since the devastating Tulsa Race Massacre, an event that marked the destruction of the affluent Greenwood District, famously known as "Black Wall Street," by white mobs in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Following this dark chapter, Black business districts across the nation faced disruption and decline, grappling with systemic barriers that hindered Black entrepreneurs from accessing essential resources such as capital, knowledge, and networks needed for success. Recognizing the importance of addressing this issue and ensuring inclusivity in entrepreneurship, we engaged a panel of experts in a discussion at the renowned South by Southwest conference in Austin, Texas, in March 2022. Led by Philip Gaskin, the Vice President of Entrepreneurship at the Kauffman Foundation, the panel delved into critical questions about the historical prosperity of Black business districts, the factors hindering their resurgence, and actionable steps to support a revitalization that benefits entrepreneurs of color and strengthens entire economies. The panel explored the historical context, acknowledging the thriving Black business districts during times of segregation and Jim Crow. The discussion highlighted the need for systemic change, emphasizing not only access to capital but also access to knowledge and a broader understanding of the significance of business in generating wealth. Insights from panelists such as Karen Freeman-Wilson, Melissa Harris-Perry, and Neo Frank emphasized the impossibility of replicating Black Wall Street in today's fully integrated society. Instead, they emphasized the importance of reimagining what success looks like for Black business owners in the 21st century. Melissa Harris-Perry underscored the distinction between wealth and income, noting that addressing the wealth gap requires more than individual efforts. Neo Frank called for a paradigm shift that recognizes Black brilliance, creativity, and ingenuity, advocating for policies that level the playing field by increasing access to opportunity, funding, knowledge, and support. In conclusion, the panel emphasized the urgent need for a collaborative approach involving policymakers, private industry, and philanthropy to dismantle barriers and create opportunities for Black entrepreneurs. The goal is to foster a more inclusive future that celebrates Black excellence and contributes to the overall economic empowerment of communities across the nation. Original Source (Ewing Marion Kaufman Foundation)   https://lnkd.in/gWCW2QKR

Kauffman Foundation Explores “How to Rebuild Black Wall Street For Us All” at South by Southwest - [vc_video link="https://lnkd.in/gdPWceDk"] More than a century has passed since the devastating Tulsa Race Massacre, an event that marked the destruction of the affluent Greenwood District, famously known as "Black Wall Street," by white mobs in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Following this dark chapter, Black business districts across the nation faced disruption and decline, grappling with systemic barriers that hindered Black entrepreneurs from accessing essential resources such as capital, knowledge, and networks needed for success. Recognizing the importance of addressing this issue and ensuring inclusivity in entrepreneurship, we engaged a panel of experts in a discussion at the renowned South by Southwest conference in Austin, Texas, in March 2022. Led by Philip Gaskin, the Vice President of Entrepreneurship at the Kauffman Foundation, the panel delved into critical questions about the historical prosperity of Black business districts, the factors hindering their resurgence, and actionable steps to support a revitalization that benefits entrepreneurs of color and strengthens entire economies. The panel explored the historical context, acknowledging the thriving Black business districts during times of segregation and Jim Crow. The discussion highlighted the need for systemic change, emphasizing not only access to capital but also access to knowledge and a broader understanding of the significance of business in generating wealth. Insights from panelists such as Karen Freeman-Wilson, Melissa Harris-Perry, and Neo Frank emphasized the impossibility of replicating Black Wall Street in today's fully integrated society. Instead, they emphasized the importance of reimagining what success looks like for Black business owners in the 21st century. Melissa Harris-Perry underscored the distinction between wealth and income, noting that addressing the wealth gap requires more than individual efforts. Neo Frank called for a paradigm shift that recognizes Black brilliance, creativity, and ingenuity, advocating for policies that level the playing field by increasing access to opportunity, funding, knowledge, and support. In conclusion, the panel emphasized the urgent need for a collaborative approach involving policymakers, private industry, and philanthropy to dismantle barriers and create opportunities for Black entrepreneurs. The goal is to foster a more inclusive future that celebrates Black excellence and contributes to the overall economic empowerment of communities across the nation. Original Source (Ewing Marion Kaufman Foundation)   https://lnkd.in/gWCW2QKR

Did you know that within the Black entrepreneurial community, there are approximately 124,551 businesses owned by Blacks or African Americans? Interestingly, about 28.5% of these businesses, which amounts to 35,547, are in the Health Care and Social Assistance sector, marking the highest presence among minority groups. Learn more about the diverse contributions of Black entrepreneurs at Black Wall Street AVL. 🌐 Learn more: [https://lnkd.in/dErgbsq] 🤝 Partner with us: [https://lnkd.in/gkXvBi8K] #BlackEntrepreneurs #DiversityInBusiness #EconomicEmpowerment

Black History Month 2024 provides a poignant opportunity to delve into the compelling narrative of Black entrepreneurship, a vital aspect of Black heritage that continues to shape economies and communities. In this exploration, we will illuminate the significance of Black entrepreneurship, examine the challenges Black entrepreneurs face, and underscore the critical importance of supporting and promoting Black-owned businesses. #blackhistorymonth2024 #supportblackownedbusinesses #blackentrepreneurship

February is Black History Month! For more than 40 years, the Oregon SBDC Network has supported small businesses and entrepreneurs as they’ve launched, grown, and thrived in their small businesses. Join us in recognizing the important contributions of Black-owned businesses this Black History Month. Learn more about how we’re building Oregon’s best businesses at https://buff.ly/3NvzA75. #BlackHistoryMonth #BlackBusinessOwners #BlackEntrepreneurs

August marks National Black Business Month! Over the years, Black Business Month has evolved to encompass celebration, advocacy, and action. It encourages consumers to support Black-owned businesses, promotes investment in Black entrepreneurship, and calls for policy changes that promote equity and inclusivity in the business world. At Mpact PR, we acknowledge and celebrate Black-owned businesses today and everyday. And we’ll be highlighting different Black business owners, stopping by brick-and-mortar storefronts, sharing resources, and ways you can truly support Black businesses. Below, are four concrete ways to get started:  1) Shop at Black-owned businesses: Patronize Black-owned stores, restaurants, and service providers. 2)  Invest in Black entrepreneurs: Support through investment, crowdfunding, or purchasing shares. 3) Advocate for policy changes: Support policies that address systemic barriers, such as improved access to capital. 4)  Raise awareness: Use your platform to highlight Black-owned businesses and their contributions. How do you support Black-owned businesses? #nationalBlackBusinessMonth #equity #support #entrepreneurship #realinvestment #blackbusinessmonth #accesstocapital #wealthgap

"Embracing the past, envisioning the future. Countless dreams and business ideas were once hindered by adversity, but today we stand strong. Black entrepreneurs have left an indelible mark on history, yet there are still countless untapped aspirations waiting to shine. Let's raise our voices and amplify the dreams of Black families. Supporting Black-owned businesses creates a platform for their cultural gifts to bless us, enriching our lives in ways we can't afford to miss. Together, we uplift and empower Black entrepreneurs, celebrating their resilience and contributions to society. Join us in fostering an environment that nurtures dreams, embraces diversity, and paves the way for a brighter future. #SupportBlackBusinesses #BlackEntrepreneurs #EconomicEmpowerment #BuyBlack #ShopBlack #InvestInBlackSuccess"

In the face of adversity and challenges, Black entrepreneurship continues to thrive in the digital realm. As many attempt to limit DEI efforts, the resilience and tenacity of Black innovators remains strong. Sherrell Dorsey, the CEO of Plexus said it perfectly. "You can't pour kerosene on a digital business." Learn more about the results of our Black Liberation and the Digital Economy survey and view the report here! --> https://lnkd.in/gN2VkkmP The Black Innovation Alliance stands strong in championing equity and progress for our members and Black entrepreneurs as a whole. Learn more about why we launched our Clapback campaign, our response to racial aggression and disinformation! --> https://lnkd.in/gN2VkkmP #BIAClapBack #blackentrepreneurs #digitaleconomy #ecommerce #BlackEconomicPower #BlackInnovators #BlackInnovationAlliance #FearlessFund #HelloAlice #BLADECon