Entrepreneurs of color are building wealth in their communities through local storefronts, high-growth startups, and innovation in industry and manufacturing. Business ownership in communities is considered a crucial marker by researchers studying the U.S.’s systemic wealth gap, and the ongoing success of minority-owned businesses is considered an effective tool in equalizing the wealth gap. How do we help these entrepreneurs continue to rise? Watch our conversation exploring available resources, structural challenges and the personal experiences of our creative and passionate founders in Iowa. 

PANELISTS:

Nancy Mwirotsi – Tech entrepreneur and nonprofit founder, Pi515

Lori Hackney – Economic development specialist/administrative officer, Iowa District, U.S. Small Business Administration

John Martin – Owner of TeamStrong Inc.

Pernell Cezar Jr. – Cofounder, BLK & Bold

MODERATORS: 

Dwana Bradley – Editor-in-chief, The Urban Experience Magazine

Kate Hayden – Staff writer, Business Record