Innovation Works Baltimore的动态

Wow! The BOW Collective has had a truly transformative few months! We’ve made incredible strides and achieved so much together, all while advancing our mission of empowering Black women-owned businesses and creating lasting change in our communities. In June, we hosted our Capital Conference in Charlotte, where we were joined by notable figures like Mayor Vi Lyles. The event included our vibrant marketplace and provided invaluable networking opportunities for members. It was a time of connection, collaboration, and growth. July marked a monumental moment as BOW made history at the White House! On July 22nd, our collective met with top officials to advocate for Black women-owned businesses. Representing over 200 CEOs and $1.4 BILLION in business, we took a powerful step forward in pushing for equity and inclusion in federal contracting. For the first time, SBA data unveiled the racial disparities in government spending, and we stood together to demand more investment to create more jobs. Advocacy equals access, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of this movement. We also partnered with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for an unprecedented event focused on 4th quarter opportunities, providing over 100 attendees with dynamic discussions, matchmaking, and networking. Our partnership with HHS is yet another way we’re opening doors and creating pathways for growth. On top of that, we had the honor of being featured on "Community Connections" with Janine Davis on V 101.9 WBAV, where we shared how BOW is reshaping entrepreneurship. In September, we hosted our 2nd Annual Advocacy Day, focused on “Democratizing Access through Economic Opportunities.” This event united voices from across the country, helping to shape the future for Black women entrepreneurs. Now, as we celebrate Women-Owned Small Business Month, we must remember how vital it is to support women-owned businesses, especially Black women-owned enterprises. These businesses are not just the backbone of our communities—they are the driving force of innovation and progress. When we invest in women, we’re investing in a brighter, more equitable future for everyone. And guess what? We’re just getting started. Together, we rise. ?????? #BOWCollective #WomensSmallBusinessMonth #SupportBlackWomenBusinesses #EconomicEquity #AdvocacyDay

Despite the attack on Diversity and Inclusion, it is crucial to champion diversity in the business sector, as it fosters innovation and economic resilience. Providing varied perspectives and solutions is essential for navigating a complex system. The South has something to say. ~Andre 3000 I want to express my gratitude to my colleague Jarryd Bethea, MPP for writing this insightful opinion piece. Atlanta Wealth Building Initiative #Atlanta #Businesses #Justeconomy #AWBI #AJC #AtlantaJournalConstitution #Ownership #Equity https://lnkd.in/eMGqhgDp

As the reality of the election results settle in and I come to terms with the fact that last week was not just a fleeting fever dream (nightmare), I’ve been reflecting deeply on what it means for ???? as a community.? ? There is nothing I love more in this world than Black women and queer folk. I am Black. I am a woman. I am queer. When I facilitate workshops with founders and leaders, I often begin with a grounding exercise called the 'Looking Glass Self'. ????’?? ?? ???????????? ?????? ???? ???? ?????? ???????? ?????? ???????????? ‘?? ???? ___', inviting participants to explore who they are at their core and, more subtly, to consider who/what the world says they are. This practice serves as a powerful reminder of our agency in defining ourselves. For me, these identities—Black, woman, queer—are my compass, my strength, and the heart of every decision I make in my business. Everything I do with The Well Work serves these communities, and that will never change. ? While I don’t yet know what the next four years hold or how new policies might impact Black-, women-, and queer-centered businesses and funding, I will continue to stand in your corner, even as legislative attacks on our communities may continue or even intensify. ? ???? #?? ?????????? ?????? ???????????? ???????? ???? ???????? ?????? ????????????, ?????? ????????????, ?????? ?????? ?????? ???????? ?????????????? ???? ??????????. So, no matter what the future brings, I’m committed to pushing forward with courage rooted in our collective power. ?????? ???????? ?????????? ?????????? ???? ??????????????????. ?????? ???????? ?????? ???? ??????????????, ?????? ?????? ???????????? ???? ???????? ???????? ???? ??????, ?????? ???????? ???????? ?????????? ?? ???????????? ???????? ??????????'?? ???????? '??????????????' ???? ?????? ???? ?????????????? ???? ????. -- The Well Work - is on a mission to teach Black Founders how to get funding. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/emFQU-N ?? Get 1:1 Founder and Business Coaching: https://lnkd.in/gzFAdKNM ?????? Access Grants Unlocked: Navigating The Free Money Marketplace - A Guide to Successful Non-Dilutive Funding for Black Founders: https://lnkd.in/gBuV5nXH ?? Join our mailing list: https://lnkd.in/g_S9Qe_B ???? Follow The Well Work for more grants and funding resources @thewellworkco on IG

As a thought leader, Afro Latina, direct descendent of US immigrants, and mother of two kind humans being shaped in today's society, I have a responsibility to welcome and engage in crucial discussions that impact diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. ?? ?? ?? What I want to take away: How I can further support meaningful change, lasting impact for the generations to come. ?? I love that this conference is approaching this from both a global and local perspective. Too often we limit our understanding to just what we have learned within our familiar scope versus embracing the differences in our communities. ?? #WebsterDEI #DEIB #blackhistorymonth2024 #immigrantrights #educationalequity #democracymatters #globaldiversity

Economic Inequality and Exclusion at the 2024 Expo The 2024 Expo incident involving Wrightcoll Enterprise Inc. highlights a critical intersection between racial economic inequality and access to opportunity. While America grapples with persistent racial disparities in wealth, income, and business ownership, recent events raise concerns about exclusion even in supposedly public events. Diversified Communications, the organizers of the Expo, have a responsibility to ensure inclusivity. Systemic issues like job discrimination and lack of access to affordable housing contribute to these disparities. When events like the Expo exclude minority-owned businesses like Wrightcoll Enterprise Inc., it further marginalizes them and perpetuates economic inequality. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need to address both the root causes of racial economic inequality and ensure fair access to opportunities. Diversified Communications should be held accountable for their actions and implement measures to promote diversity and inclusion at future events. "The discriminatory practices perpetuated by institutions like the Greater Boston Food Bank (GBFB) and Food For Free have systematically marginalized and disadvantaged Black-led organizations. By offering preferential treatment and resources to white-led groups, they effectively push out Black groups and undermine their efforts. This disparity in treatment not only reinforces existing power imbalances but also perpetuates systemic racism within the philanthropic sector. Despite the tireless efforts of Black nonprofits to address the needs of their communities, they are consistently met with obstacles and inadequate support from institutions that should be allies in the fight against inequality. It is imperative that we acknowledge and address these inequities to create a fair and inclusive landscape where all organizations, regardless of race, have equal opportunities to thrive and serve their communities."

“A more equitable America is long overdue” and our CEO, Samantha Tweedy,? is leading the way. In “Unfinished Business” by The Atlantic, Samantha addresses the unfinished business of dismantling the root causes of inequities and the need for leaders with expertise across sectors. Read how BEA is bringing the private, public, and social sectors together to advance work, wages, and wealth for Black Americans - and grow the entire economy. https://lnkd.in/gVzUh2Nw

Systemic barriers in capital access are stifling the potential of impactful Black entrepreneurs—especially Black women—who are driving transformational projects in their communities. These are prolific leaders with the vision, experience, and drive to lead large-scale redevelopment efforts, yet they face persistent doubt and bias when seeking capital. At RCI Community Funds, we’re committed to changing this narrative by fostering equitable capital flow and empowering Black entrepreneurs to access the resources they deserve. Investing in these leaders is not just about funding a project; it’s about dismantling systemic barriers and building stronger, more inclusive communities for the future. Let's move beyond bias and create pathways for real change. #CommunityCapital #EquityInFunding #InclusiveEconomy #BlackEntrepreneurs #InvestInDiversity #EconomicJustice #RCICommunityFunds

???Happy Juneteenth!??? Yesterday , we commemorated the end of slavery in the United States and celebrate the freedom, resilience, and contributions of Black communities. Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality and justice. This Juneteenth, let's move beyond words and take meaningful action. Support Black-owned businesses by purchasing their products and services. Your support helps to uplift communities, foster economic empowerment, and create lasting change. Here are a few ways you can make a difference today: ??Shop Local:?Find and support Black-owned businesses in your community. ??Spread the Word:?Share your favorite Black-owned businesses on social media. ??Invest in Black Entrepreneurs:?Consider supporting crowdfunding campaigns or investing in Black startups. Every purchase you make is a step towards a more equitable and inclusive future. Let’s celebrate Juneteenth by making a tangible impact. Digital Storytellers Ink - Reality By Design #Juneteenth #SupportBlackBusiness #EconomicEmpowerment #Equality #ShopBlack #BuyBlack #BlackExcellence #CommunitySupport #CelebrateFreedom #Tech #AI #Video

I am beyond grateful for our amazing partnership with the Kapor Center, which has been instrumental in the success of?BIA on the Hill 2024. Working closely with Lili Gangas and the entire Kapor Center team has been a truly inspiring experience. Their unwavering passion for creating equitable innovations, developing supportive policies, and building tools that empower diverse entrepreneurs is nothing short of remarkable. From day one, I’ve been drawn to the Kapor Center’s dedication to ensuring that Black, Indigenous, and Latinx entrepreneurs receive the visibility and support they deserve in the broader innovation economy. Together, we’ve not only fostered meaningful discussions at the?CBCF Annual Legislative Conference?but also implemented initiatives that drive real change and open up new opportunities for underrepresented communities. A special shoutout to?Nathan Jones?for his insightful contribution to our second panel,?"Scaling for Success: Technologies, Strategies & Policies to Elevate Black Entrepreneurship."?Nathan’s expertise and dedication were pivotal in shaping the conversation and providing valuable strategies to elevate Black-owned businesses. The impact of our collaboration is evident in the strides we’ve made toward a more inclusive tech ecosystem. By amplifying the voices of those who are often unseen, we are paving the way for a future where diversity and innovation go hand in hand. A heartfelt thank you to Lili Gangas, Nathan Jones, Allison Scott, Ph.D., Patrick Armstrong, and the entire Kapor Center team for your continued dedication and for being such incredible partners in this journey. Your commitment to equity and empowerment truly makes a difference, and I am excited to see what we will achieve together moving forward. Together, we are building a tech landscape that celebrates and supports the diverse voices of tomorrow. #Gratitude #Partnership #Equity #Innovation #BlackEntrepreneurs #BIAOnTheHill #KaporCenter #DiversityInTech #TechPolicy #InclusiveFuture #Empowerment #ScalingForSuccess #DecadeofBlackInnovation

Meet three Black women who are building a more equitable society for all. A more equitable America is long overdue.?The country faces a widespread crisis of inequity across many fronts, from healthcare and wealth to education, impacting citizens of all backgrounds. While these broader socioeconomic challenges impact all underserved communities, Black Americans bear the worst of these issues:?As of 2022, the typical Black family held $16 for every $100 possessed by their white counterpart; this wealth disparity is reinforced by the fact that Black workers face higher?unemployment rates?and?lower wages?than other Americans. To address the root causes of inequities, we need leaders with expertise and influence across a variety of sectors and communities to drive change. Enter three nonprofit leaders: New Profit CEO?Tulaine Montgomery, Leading on Opportunity Director?Sherri Chisolm, and the Black Economic Alliance Foundation CEO?Samantha Tweedy. These Black women are helping lay the groundwork for a more equitable country by listening to, and learning from, those who are most proximate to the issues they’re addressing, whether it’s maternal health equity; economic mobility in Charlotte, North Carolina; or wealth-building pathways for Black Americans. https://lnkd.in/gZqDhgzU