In 2022, we partnered with The DEC Network to address the capital access gap among Black and Latinx entrepreneurs in Dallas County. With generous support from JPMorgan Chase & Co., The DEC Network and Economic Impact Catalyst (EIC) undertook an in-depth assessment to develop recommendations and effective interventions.

Recent research suggests that equitable and non-predatory startup investment and small business capital is difficult to access for marginalized entrepreneurs in Dallas. Join us for a discussion with local leaders as we discuss how to better support communities of color and provide equitable access to funding through economic development initiatives.

Panelists include:

• Tarsha Hearns, Senior Director of The DEC Network
• Kay West, CNP, Vice President of TruFund Financial Services
• Holly Burrow, CEO and Founder of eqALL Business Solutions

You can learn more about the Entrepreneur of Color Fund design discussed in this episode here.

About the Speaker Organizations

The DEC Network

The DEC Network is a 501c3 non-profit organization driving innovation and economic impact by helping entrepreneurs start, build and grow their businesses. With a number of innovation hubs across DFW, we provide expert education, access to knowledgeable mentors and a vibrant community of like-minded entrepreneurs. Learn more at https://thedec.co/.

TruFund Financial Services

TruFund Financial Services, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) headquartered in New York City with field offices in Alabama, Louisiana, and Texas. TruFund tailors its financial and technical assistance to the unique needs of each site—from contract mobilization lending in New York and Louisiana to rural Black Belt initiatives in Alabama. Learn more at https://www.trufund.org/.

eqALL Business Solutions

EqALL is a social enterprise and entrepreneur support organization dedicated to changing the founder experience by creating eqall access to resources, support and capital readiness. We support startups and the spaces that grow them by helping organizations build capacity to serve small business founders through customized solutions designed to meet founders where they are. Learn more at https://eqall.co/.