Summary:
Federal aid cuts have left minority-owned startups in Oregon struggling to secure funding and property
Organizations like Northwest Native Chamber and Business Impact Northwest have lost crucial MBDA grants
President Donald Trump's elimination of diversity initiatives has removed vital support for minority entrepreneurs
Entrepreneurs are forced to seek alternative resources, often with less understanding and support
Proposed $191 million cut to the CDFI program could further devastate small business support
The Struggle for Minority-Owned Startups in Oregon
Melissa Bird's journey with Mermaid’s Garden, an aquaculture farm retreat, highlights the challenges faced by minority-owned businesses in Oregon. Despite her vision to connect clients back to quality food and land, securing property and funding has been a five-year struggle. The recent loss of federal aid through the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) has further complicated her efforts.
The Impact of Lost Funding
The Northwest Native Chamber and Business Impact Northwest, two pivotal organizations supporting minority-owned businesses, have seen their MBDA grants vanish. This funding was crucial for providing technical assistance, business coaching, and strategic planning. Joe Sky-Tucker, CEO of Business Impact Northwest, warns that these cuts will severely limit access to essential services for underserved communities.
A Broader Threat to Small Business Support
President Donald Trump's elimination of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives has left many minority-owned businesses without vital support. The proposed $191 million cut to the federal CDFI program could exacerbate the situation, threatening the survival of small business support programs nationwide.
Entrepreneurs Forced to Adapt
Entrepreneurs like Adam Becenti and Adrienne Fainman are now seeking alternative resources to launch and grow their businesses. The unique understanding and support provided by Native-run organizations like the Northwest Native Chamber are irreplaceable, leaving many to navigate the business landscape alone.
Looking Ahead
Despite these challenges, business owners like Melissa Bird are scaling back their visions and taking incremental steps to prove their business models. The resilience of these entrepreneurs underscores the importance of federal support in fostering economic growth and self-sufficiency in minority communities.
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