The Power Of Programs: 3 Reflections From the undivided We Rise Summit
Entrepreneurship doesn’t come with a book of rules. Fortunately, a life of entrepreneurship entails curiosity, exploration, discipline, obedience, and planning. As consumers and observers, we stan women of color in entrepreneurship who are achieving their dreams and being a source of service and support to others at the same time.s a consumer myself, I appreciate behind-the-scenes conversations that unpack and tell the stories of what it truly means to be a founder and CEO.
During the Power Of Programs discussion panel led by digitalundivided’s very own, Kate McCrery, Andrea Perdomo of Techstars, Kezia Williams of The Black upStart, and Bee Law of Quirktastic sat down for a conversation about how entrepreneurial programs can help you become a successful founder and CEO. Here’s what they had to say about the journey to becoming an entrepreneur and how accelerators, incubators and more can help:
- An accelerator program is not needed or required to be an entrepreneur.
Entrepreneurship entails observing a need, figuring out how to meet the need, or amplifying a vision to meet that need. According to some, entrepreneurship can be taught in higher level institutions. However, I would argue, however, that becoming an entrepreneur requires people to learn mostly by doing. During the Power Of Programs discussion, the panelists talked about the benefits of an accelerator program while starting a new business venture with one of the main questions being whether or not accelerator programs are required to be successful in this space.
As discussed by the panelists, an accelerated program is not a requirement in entrepreneurship. However, there are benefits that come with participating in a program that teaches you about business ownership. The possibilities of establishing a close and connected community and social support system is one of them. Having people who you can bet on for assistance and help is one of the beauties of entrepreneurship. A solid foundation of support can assist in leveraging a business and its mission.
- Curiosity breeds great results.
The panelists suggest leaning into curiosity and support in order to become educated, confident and well-knowledgeable about your journey through entrepreneurship. Instead of suppressing what you don’t know, try bringing the unknown to the surface and allow what you don’t know to guide you to business and entrepreneurial competencies. Andrea Perdomo encouraged viewers to not allowt “not knowing something stop you from being curious.” In order to sharpen and grow your skill set, you have to be willing to be a student and learn as much as possible. The goal in business is to become an expert to further scale and sell your expertise. This should be the driving force of your business expansion.
- Be highly energetic and motivated!
One thing we noticed during the Power Of Programs panel discussion is how enthusiastic and energetic spirit of Kezia Williams. Her words were able to stick because she appeared excited and driven to answer questions and talk about her business. This is the same level of energy you should have while talking about your business or selling a product or service. People are more willing to support and become curious about you when your energy is unmatched. Entrepreneurship entails promoting, branding, marketing, and networking. This is typically done by oneself so energy matters! Remember, you are the face of your platform until you appoint someone else to the role and position.
For more key tips and reflections on how to be a successful founder/CEO or to support our org’s mission of empowering Black & Latinx communities through women entrepreneurs, head to www.digitalundivided.com.
