Was Live Friday, Jun 14, 2023 | 11 am PT
Guest Speakers:
- Sen. Mark Warner, D-Virginia, Co-Chair of the Community Development Finance Caucus
- Shernaz Daver, CMO, Khosla Ventures
- Charles Phillips, Co-Founder of the Black Economic Alliance. Mr. Phillips served on President Barack Obama’s Economic Recovery Advisory Board.
- Sierra Georgia, Founder of Gelat’OH!
Event Overview
America was built on the dreams of small business owners. The Small Business Administration notes there are over 32.2 small businesses in the US, making up 99.9% of all businesses. Small businesses employ almost half of the US workforce and add 44% to its GDP.
Immigrants have started up more than 18% of small businesses in the US. During the Covid-19 pandemic, more than 1/3 of US businesses closed down – many permanently – while others struggled to survive. The pandemic unexpectedly proved a boon for others, as lockdowns allowed small entrepreneurs to turn their passions into full-fledged companies.
This week’s briefing will explore the challenges of accessing funding to start up and expand a small business. Such challenges are especially acute for women and marginalized communities. Sen. Mark Warner, D-Virginia, will present his plan for expanding America’s small businesses.
