At United Way of Southeast Louisiana's Thriving African-American Small Business Initiative (TAASB) Pitch It 2024, ten talented entrepreneurs took impressive steps to realize their business dreams. The packed room was abuzz with inspiration as each business owner shared their vision and strategic plan.
Building a Strong Foundation for Success
Entrepreneurs completed seven months of comprehensive training, mentorship and financial capability instruction designed to help them fine-tune their budgeting skills and improve their profits and viability. The program offers a 5:1 matched savings account paired with a business accelerator model to equip graduates with the tools they need to thrive in the competitive business landscape. The program’s holistic approach was on full display as they presented to an expert panel of judges representing Shell, Verizon, St. Tammany Corporation, and the Institute of Mental Hygiene of the City of New Orleans.
“By providing hands-on training, mentorship and substantial capital investment, we’re creating a pipeline of empowered entrepreneurs equipped to drive economic change in their communities,” said Michael Williamson, UWSELA president and CEO and the evening’s emcee. “This initiative exemplifies how partnerships and targeted support can help bridge the racial wealth gap, create more opportunity, and build a stronger economy for all.”
Investing in our Community's Future
The TAASB Initiative is about more than just individual success stories. It's about investing in the future of Southeast Louisiana. By empowering Black entrepreneurs, we're building a more inclusive economy where everyone has the chance to succeed. In its second cohort, the program's unique matched savings program generated $120,000 in immediate business capital.
Backing our Graduates
The best way to congratulate the 2024 TAASB participants is to support their small, growing businesses. Consider shopping locally and connecting with these dedicated entrepreneurs when purchasing gifts for loved ones this holiday season. Thank you to our sponsors, including BET, The Bernard Group/Jolie Bernard LLC, MacKenzie Scott, St. Bernard Economic Development Foundation, and St. Tammany Corporation.
2024 Participating Businesses:
Gravel Road Builders and Construction Services LLC
Travis C. Banks
504-233-8139
Orleans Parish
So Craftee LLC
Tanyaka B. Cline
985-288-0818
facebook.com/thecrafteestore
St. Tammany Parish
Thrive NOLA Spa
Ronald Davis
504-342-4586
thenolaspa.com
Orleans Parish
Blossoming Minds
Ebony Evans
504-233-2288
blossomingminds.org
Jefferson Parish
Peace of Serenity Massage & Wellness
Frances Love Harris
504-858-4848
posmassage.com
Jefferson Parish
NextGen PR Group
Rashaun Harris
504-236-2127
Orleans Parish
The Miller Group Consulting LLC.
Shantell Miller
504-920-5806
shay@themillergroupconsulting.com
themillergroupconsulting.com
Jefferson Parish
Savvy Tax Solutions, LLC
Taryn Spikes-Webb
985-516-1760
facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089194745754
Washington Parish
Baroness on Baronne
Camille Whitworth & Sidney Webb
504-522-8664
baronessnola.com
Orleans Parish
Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
Feeling inspired? Want to learn more about how you can support UWSELA's broader mission to address systemic inequities and foster community resilience? Head to UnitedWaySELA.org/TAASB to learn more and join us in building a stronger, more equitable future for Southeast Louisiana!