Black entrepreneurs demand courage to thrive in a harsh economy
- A gathering of Black business owners in Oakland highlighted the need for courage and creativity in challenging economic conditions.
- Entrepreneurs like Della Edwards are adapting their businesses, with Edwards showcasing an innovative product by dressing apple cider bottles.
- The event underlined that overcoming economic challenges requires not just business skills but an entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in adversity.
In Oakland, California, a gathering of Black business owners took place on a Sunday to discuss the challenges they face in today's economy. The event emphasized the importance of courage and creativity for small businesses, particularly as many retailers struggle to stay afloat amid the pandemic and the increasing popularity of online shopping. Della Edwards shared her inspiring journey of turning an inventive idea into a successful venture by dressing apple cider bottles. After purchasing a hundred bottles, she began marketing them directly to consumers in grocery store parking lots, exemplifying the entrepreneurial spirit that is essential for survival in difficult economic times. Another entrepreneur, who has been selling creole potato salad kits for about 25 years, highlighted how adaptability has been crucial to his business's longevity. As the economic landscape shifts, many smaller businesses that lack commercial retail space are feeling the pressure, leading to a decline in confidence among potential entrepreneurs in the Black community. This atmosphere of doubt has been exacerbated by societal messages that prioritize obtaining college degrees and traditional employment over pursuing entrepreneurial ventures. Despite these obstacles, tales like those of Edwards and other Black business owners illustrate that entrepreneurial spirit remains vibrant in the community. Many entrepreneurs recognized that innovation and a willingness to pivot can provide pathways to financial survival, especially during economic downturns. Promoting local businesses not only fosters individual success stories but also strengthens community resilience against economic challenges. The event in Oakland not only served as a platform for these business owners to share their stories but also aimed to inspire others by showing that entrepreneurship can arise in the face of adversity and societal pressure. The innovative approaches taken by these individuals demonstrate that, with courage and imagination, Black entrepreneurs can thrive even when the odds are stacked against them, affirming that new entrepreneurs are continuously emerging from within the community.