Inclusive Triumphs: Unveiling the Blueprint for Building Minority Businesses in Underserved Markets

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of the It’s Your Time Conference podcast, we dive into the strategies and insights from the 2024 It's Your Time Conference Master Class, "Inclusive Triumphs: Unveiling the Blueprint for Building Minority Businesses in Underserved Markets." Led by Ernest Strickland, President and CEO of the Black Business Association of Memphis, this session addresses the unique challenges and essential frameworks for empowering minority-owned businesses in underserved areas. Strickland brings a wealth of experience and actionable steps to guide entrepreneurs and business leaders to maximize their potential while navigating obstacles in these markets. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on setting up sustainable businesses, amplifying impact, and embracing innovation within communities that need it the most.

About the Speaker: 

Ernest Strickland

Ernest Strickland is the President and CEO of the Black Business Association of Memphis, an organization dedicated to the growth and advancement of Black-owned businesses in the Memphis area. With a proven track record of advocating for economic equity and creating pathways for success in minority entrepreneurship, Strickland is a passionate leader committed to empowering communities and bridging the gap for businesses in underserved markets.

Key Points from this Episode: 

• The mechanics behind building a real, scalable business

• About the Black Business Association of Memphis

• Making the shift from artist to entity

• About LLCs and S-Corps

• Understanding the underserved market landscape

• Overcoming barriers and challenges to building businesses in underserved markets

• Defining your niche

• Creating a blueprint for sustainable growth

• Maximizing community impact

• Innovative approaches for minority businesses

• Q&A session with the live audience

Links Mentioned in this Episode: 

• Connect with It’s Your Time Conference on Instagram

• Join It’s Your Time Conference Email List

• Connect with Ernest Strickland on Instagram

• Black Business Association of Memphis

• US Black Chambers, Inc.

• Charlotte Area Chamber of Commerce

• The Parent's Playbook: How To Help Your Child Succeed In The Music Industry by Ernest Strickland

• LivePlan