We're proud to announce that our founder Nikki Porcher has been selected as a Center For Black Entrepreneurship research fellow. Nikki, alongside co-investigator Nantale Muwonge, are participating in the CBE Research Program and leading an investigation titled "Study of The Impact of The Defunding of DEI Initiatives & The Social Justice Uprising on Black Women-Owned Businesses."
Why this study matters
The purpose of the study is to understand the challenges faced by Black Women Entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 pandemic, the social justice uprising and as a result of funding cuts to DEI programs. By examining the intersecting factors of race, gender and socio-economic status, this study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the experiences, barriers and resilience strategies employed by Black Women Founders.
The research will be shared with policymakers and service providers who provide to Black businesses so they can identify gaps in their programming and create initiatives that foster a more inclusive and equitable entrepreneurship ecosystem.
The importance of the research
Beyond improvements that this research could bring to the business landscape, it's worth noting that it's being conducted by Black Women for Black Women. So there will be built-in sensitives about how to gather data in a way that isn't exploitative. And the research will be viewed through a humanistic lens that recognizes the fact that the data isn't just the numbers, it's also the dreams, the goals, the wishes, the lessons and the struggles of Black Women who were bold enough to bet on themselves.
We also believe that it's important for Black Women to tell Black Women's stories because this ensures authenticity, accuracy and respect are upheld, which ultimately leads to more impactful and meaningful insights that can drive real change.
Join us in supporting Black Women Business Owners
We invite you to participate in the study by taking the research survey, and allies are encouraged to participate by amplifying the study. And we've created resources you can use to share the study with your network (just scroll down to the bottom of this page) to make it easier for you.
Your support and participation are crucial in helping us drive meaningful change for Black Women Business Owners. Together, we can amplify their voices and create a more inclusive and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem.