By Eugenia V. Gray
In a city like Memphis, where the entrepreneurial spirit runs deep and the drive to succeed is palpable, the Black Business Association (BBA) of Memphis has taken a bold step to empower the city's Black-owned tech businesses. Through the launch of the innovative Build2Scale (B2S) program, the BBA, in collaboration with the University of Memphis and Community Lift, is poised to transform the landscape of Black entrepreneurship in the technology, IT, and engineering sectors.
Addressing the Wealth Gap
The impetus behind the Build2Scale program is rooted in the persistent wealth gap that has long plagued the Black community in Memphis and across the nation. Despite the city's vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, Black-owned businesses have historically faced significant barriers to growth and sustainability, often struggling to access the capital, resources, and support needed to thrive.
A Collaborative Approach to Transformation
The Build2Scale program is a collaborative effort that brings together the expertise and resources of the University of Memphis, Community Lift, and the Black Business Association of Memphis. By leveraging the strengths of these three institutions, the program aims to provide a comprehensive suite of support services to Black-owned tech businesses, helping them to overcome the challenges that have traditionally hindered their growth.
Empowering Microbusinesses to Become Small Businesses
At the heart of the Build2Scale program is a focus on transforming microbusinesses into small businesses within the technology, IT, and engineering sectors. By providing a "lean framework" of entrepreneurship and leadership training, coaching, and consulting, the program aims to equip Black-owned tech businesses with the skills, resources, and support they need to scale their operations and access critical funding from capital lenders.
