How Women Entrepreneurs Capitalize Big Ideas from Covid
LinkedIn
Published June 13, 2021
Weld Royal, Head of US Content Operations at DailyFX - Market News & Analysis
{…I listened to business owners present ideas for growth, as part of the Women’s Center for Entrepreneurship - NJ GrowthVenture program, a 12-week initiative for business owners including those in startup mode to figure out everything from launch and marketing strategies to financing to hiring. (In full transparency, I serve on the board of the Women’s Center for Entrepreneurship.)
The Big Ideas: The program took place as Covid raged, and as small businesses struggled more than ever. As these entrepreneurs met to discuss ways to start, grow or save their companies, bad news came out from the Federal Reserve. It released a study showing that the pandemic resulted in the permanent closure of roughly 200,000 U.S. establishments above historical levels during year one of the pandemic. In other words, those closures are in addition to the 600,000 businesses that typically close in a normal year.
Companies providing personal services—these include everything from beauty salons, barber shops and solopreneur law firms to wedding planners, veterinarians and even small yoga studios—were hardest hit, according to the Fed study.
Moving forward: Despite the dire numbers, the Women’s Center for Entrepreneurship participants digitally convened to discuss ideas to move their businesses into the future. MommyEvolve founder @Cecile D Edwards M.Ed talked about “self-care and mindfulness.”
GeeksCupcakes founder and baker Anise Ward spoke about he importance of “investing in your community.”
Artist Angela Huggins, who started Angel Hugs 4 All, highlighted the importance of healing through crafting.
Garden of Healing Yoga Studio owner Carla Haynes (above) highlighted "Honing in on what you do well and focusing on it."
Sharing ideas: Listening to these women and other business owners deliver their final GrowthVenture presentations, I realized what they learned and shared during Covid had broad application in a post-pandemic world….}