Happy Black Business Month!

Black Business Month is celebrated annually in the United States to honor the contributions of black-owned businesses to the economy. This year, the monthlong celebration runs from August 1st to September 30th. During Black Business Month, businesses and consumers are encouraged to support black-owned businesses through increased spending and investment. This is a vital time for black-owned businesses, as they are often undervalued and underserved by the mainstream business community. 

In the United States, black-owned businesses make up less than 5% of all businesses. However, these businesses generate nearly $300 billion in annual revenue and employ over 2 million people. While black business owners have made significant strides, there is still room for improvement. In particular, black-owned businesses tend to be smaller and have fewer employees than their white counterparts. Additionally, they often struggle to access capital and face barriers to growth. Nevertheless, Black Business Month is a time to celebrate the successes of black entrepreneurs and look forward to a bright future.  By patronizing black-owned businesses during this month, we can help to close the wealth gap and create more opportunities for black entrepreneurs. So, let's celebrate Black Business Month by supporting the businesses that are powering our economy!

Take the time to put in the search window "local black businesses" in your city, state.  Visit the business and interview the people who work there to see if it is in fact a black-owned business.  Unfortunately, we did find several businesses online and one offline was not a black-owned business even though all businesses did sell merchandise that appealed to African American shoppers.  Be mindful of the deception out there.  

Happy shopping! 

Why Black-Owned Businesses Don’t Survive

Ousted - When Dedicated African Americans to the Establishment Get Talked or Kicked Out

Omarosa.  Those of you who have been following the media know that Trump's dedicated follower who no one claims to know what exactly was her purpose is gone out the White House.  The former director of communications had that look on her face while walking out like, "I messed up for the last time."  Look, if you know anything about a prideful sistah's body language that has been brought down low, she exemplified it.  Her head wasn't held up high like it was in the past on the television show, The Apprentice and her smile wasn't that bright as she looked at cameras.  Now what really happened to her?  I'm sure her story will be cleverly manufactured to initiate support from the black community.  My observation brings me to this point, when you are one of the few in the establishment, in the beast system to be somewhat specific, it won't be long before they look to find fault with your work performance or they simply sit and watch you hang yourself.  If one is of higher intelligence, the organization/system, hidden in plain sight, will systematically put great burdens on you knowing that you can't keep up with their demands and therefore, watch you fail.

Ousted, it happened to the best of us without notice.  Some of you remember.  One day you were on top of the world thinking you were untouchable and "in" with those non-blacks or your own people.  You thought all were down with you, and then BAM!  Just like that, you were no longer a favorite and replaceable.  What happened to the love?  They told you how good you were, smart, and "going somewhere just keep doing what you are doing."  Yet, you later hear or read, "We regret to inform you that we are no longer in need of your service."  With family, it sounds like, "Don't come back over here.  Don't call or write.  You aren't welcome.  You don't have time for us, we don't have time for you!"  Say what? 

Say goodbye to the establishment and all they gave you.  "What about the house I just bought," you think.  "My dream ride, my kid's future, the things I promised to buy Pookie and 'em!  DAMN!"  Yes, damn is right.  You were damned from the start.  No God, no personal faith, no angels at work, none of that.  You chose your own path.  You wanted what you wanted when you wanted.  No sense in being mad at God.  He wasn't in the plan.  Besides, the establishment stripped you of your belief system.  You went along with whatever, to fit in.  "God...what god?"  You trusted in flawed men and women.

Scorned black folk wayward in the faith or no faith at all just don't learn from defeat.  They dust themselves off and go back at it again carrying their same old funky a$$ attitude.  Back to searching for a job or "opportunity" again, maybe a bit humble for a season until one smells power, fame, and fortune all over again and believes the hype that non-blacks put upon them.  They get in with people that look like them or any non-black group that can "help" while wishing upon a star for the favor again, "Awww life just got good again."  One is back on top, at least so he or she thinks until the establishment grows weary of one's Uncle Tom act.

Our predecessors warned us of losing our vision, forsaking wisdom, and thinking one to be his or her own god.  Reminded us never get too comfortable or prideful.  They told us to watch as well as pray.  They said, "You are never too old to get your a$$ whipped."  Yep, men and women of the establishment whipping behinds in more ways than one.  Show out on the field, and the black athlete will be made an example of in front of the rest of the slaves.  Act like a fool on the court and they will break that pompous jerk.  Talk too much and your own people can show you better than they can tell you.  Some prideful folks would say, "You giving the establishment too much credit."  No, I'm only stating what has been proven time and time again.  Black organizations and countless entertainers are still in a supportive role not in a leadership one.  From the individuals and groups you know about to the ones you don't, dedicated African Americans who are very loyal to their masters also have finances that are equally as loyal.  Therefore, they remain powerless.  When the master or establishment turns on them, they walk away with just enough.  Their finances were and still are wrapped up in everything that doesn't do anything more than temporarily assist Uncle Tom and Aunt Tammy and possibly their kin.  But sincere groups that empower like grassroots organizations, civic groups, black-owned companies on the rise, etc.--no way!  They know we would do the kind of things that would put us in direct competition with their old bosses, expose them and due to fear and other factors they have, the self-hating loyalists despite all that has happened to them, will protect their masters, don't be deceived by them when they come to your meetings, homes, churches and elsewhere confessing and repenting. 

You see, some of our people hold on to the notion, "You never know what might master do for me...I mean I know he's mad and besides, I don't want to burn a bridge.  Some secrets I will have to go to my grave with."  But what if what you know will save thousands even millions?  What if you are given the power to make a difference in many lives?  "Nope, I can't say...I can't do." Uncle Tom and Aunt Tammy say.

A smart woman like Omarosa has a lot of head knowledge, so much in fact that she could be a valuable asset to the African American community, but as we all know anything she does going forward will be limited and if she strays out of those boundaries that will be her definite end. 

We need people in the community that not only have power but a spine willing to go all out and die for the cause or many causes.  Folks who aren't easily misled, mind-controlled, hooked on substances, and void of the Holy Spirit to help us, help others.

Nicholl McGuire

Business and all the Meaningless Media Distractions, Must-Have Products & Entertainment Mayhem

Your dollar is important.  They look to take it to finance their government, communities, wars, education, businesses, and more.  Don't say you want to start a business, because if you do, they will look for ways to keep you out of the mainstream media.  Don't say that you will no longer buy their products, because they will figure out a way to get those around you to show their support and forget about you.  And most of all, don't start speaking the kind of truth that exposes their favorites, breaks their bank accounts or holds them accountable, because suddenly you are deemed the trouble-maker, untrustworthy, or whatever picture they choose to paint you to be.  Your enemy or enemies come in different shades nowadays and come from a wide variety of backgrounds.  What is common about all foes is they are not children of light.  Where there is light, there is truth, fairness, love, kindness, patience, prosperity, etc.  Do you really think a wicked being wants all that for you and I?

The picture that the greedy, ungodly and prideful paint in media is one that appeals to your five senses because they believe you to be mentally weak, spiritually spent, financially dependent, and physically tired.  So what better way then to get you to compromise--go along with whatever programming they conjure up, get you to like, comment, subscribe, buy whatever they create, mentally, spiritually and physically bind you with whatever you love the most--food, sex, new relationship, opportunity, places, and so on.  Meanwhile, you don't think twice about uplifting those around you or within your family in business who could be competition for them.  Take for instance, the independent filmmaker who is seeking to take Hollywood by storm with movies that make a difference, why would you bother to get to know his or her work when your mind is being overwhelmed by what the rich who are already rich is marketing?  What about the aspiring entrepreneur who simply asks you to buy this product or that one and you scoff at the price and head on down to the local Walmart?

Once again another holiday season is fast approaching and you have already been programmed since July to start holiday shopping.  In October, you were already told subtly to start using layaway.  And when you don't listen to the advertisers, your media programming via music, movies, books, children's shows, products, and more tells you not only what is trendy, but how might you obtain it.  Can we say credit?  Celebrity XYZ has this card and that one, and why not you?  Celebrity ABC is wearing...and her daughter or son is dressed up in...and you buy it.  But if it isn't you, no worries, they have your show-boating family members who try to keep up with the Jones'.

Now if shopping isn't your thing, no big deal, right?  So they prep your mind to be the one who volunteers time and service or accept a miserly pay for far too much work.  And if you are the lazy type, don't like to work real hard on too much of anything, they provide you with ways to amuse yourself while throwing a few pennies your way via online games, surveys, searches, watching video, and more.  As for those who aren't afraid of hard work, Uncle Sam is always in search of you and your children.  Programmed from the time you and they were born to go after a government job from being an office assistant to a military officer.  What movie might get you and your offspring excited about your future?  For instance, when they want you to attend college or join the military, they make sure there is a movie that you will enjoy--might even quote a catchy line or two from, a celebrity endorsement, and of course, what better way to strike the nail in the coffin is to give you some kind of benefit for spreading the word.  Same is done when using tools like books, mega ministers, strategically placed bulletin boards in your communities, and more to persuade you into buying whatever they want you to purchase.

What should be the focus other than being the buyer, the volunteer or the low paid worker in your own lifetime movie?  Your spiritual calling, condition, concern, commitment, and anything else that goes beyond consumerism and pleasuring one's self.  Why must one's loyalty be placed on the people, places, and things that sincerely add no benefit to our lives?  Upon closer inspection you will find that you have been successfully programmed to believe that everything that is unrighteous, untrue, unhealthy, and unbeneficial is right for you while everything that is righteous, true, healthy, and beneficial is not good.  The brainwashing spreads and before long an unsuspecting generation believes the foolishness that mothers and fathers believed and their kinfolk and so on.

In recent years, we have witnessed the demise of much.  Once respectable celebrity role models were brought down low.  R&B music along with vocalists took a strategic backseat.  Spiritual attacks on all people and things related to God were in full force and continue to happen.  Patriotism is a thing of the past being picked away at for any and every reason.  In addition, seemingly quiet communities continue to be turned upside down with gun violence, abuse and drugs.  While people walk around like zombies so grateful for the next designer drug or alcohol to touch their lips while water and food supply in undesirable towns, boroughs, districts, and other places is continuing to be polluted.

Mother nature is disrupted by manufactured events while select companies get rich off the mayhem.  Media hype influences your mind to believe its all natural, but the discerning know better. Elitist groups use ignorant people to tell you your vote counts while they keep track of you and your wallet for every time you show up at a voting booth near you. The scripted news keeps telling you only what they think you want to hear while you miss the real news that real people need for you to pay attention to.

What you need now is what is in the best interest of you and your family, forget about the rest.  Trust in your Creator these days, because unfortunately things are headed for the worse.  Mentally ill-equipped men and women think their grandiose ideas, charm, and big bank accounts might save them in the next season, but they are sadly mistaken. Watch their downfall.  As for business, another 7.0, 8.0...1, 2, 3,...flawed invention will be out next year with all the accessories and technicians to enhance or fix it while the stock market takes another dive.  Safeguard your assets and don't believe any hype that targets minorities.

Distinguish the truth from the lie by being proactive, engaged, and alert.

Nicholl McGuire is the host of YouTube NM Enterprise 7 a faith based channel.

Consumer Scams - ripoffs, bad business, theft

You Think They Don't Know You...But They Do - Unemployed and Ignorant

He loses a job.  He looks for another.  He becomes disgruntled because he doesn't find what he wants.  He takes a long break, gets back into the fight, and looks again.  He is impatient, irritable, and mean.  He isn't happy with his life, his partner, or much else. 

The poor man starts drinking, sleeps with different women, and finds out he is expecting a baby.  He isn't happy about that either.  His anger festers while his treasured items are taken away from him (house, car, household goods...), because he doesn't have enough money to keep paying for them.  Eventually, he worries himself sick.  Lying on his back, deeply saddened, the defeated, once prideful and unbelieving, man calls on an unseen force, he calls, "God."  He cries out, "If you're listening, please help!"

Meanwhile, non-blacks see that broke, busted and disgusted black man and knows his story all too well.  They have little compassion, but they see a whole lot of opportunities to make money from all his troubles that he may or may not have caused. 

The black woman looks on and she too is heartbroken, frustrated, and often complaining about her haves and have-nots.  The family is in trouble and temptation is on every side closing on them like two elevator doors with no safety device. 

Non-blacks come up with yet another thing that they think we need to help us or straighten our stubborn @$$*$ up (government aid, programs, psychology, correctional facilities, police beating or shooting).  It isn't typically our fellow sisters and brothers who come to our rescue in great numbers or with any life-changing monies, programs, opportunities, etc.  They are too busy fighting too.  They are protecting what little they have and don't want you coming over and potentially messing them up either!  "I got enough issues my d@mn self!  Don't come over here with your drama.  You knew that trouble was coming, why didn't you do what you were supposed to do in the first place!  Ain't no sense in crying now!" says your family.

Non-blacks have spent decades studying the black family.  They know you better than you think.  Oftentimes pride within the black community aids in stupidity and ignorance.  That's right a small word like pride creates big trouble!  You think you know something and along comes someone or something that proves you know nothing!  There are many homeless people on the street, men and women in courts across our land, and others in jail for most of their lives due to PRIDE!  "Pride comes before a fall..." the Holy Bible says it!

What plan did the black man or woman come up with to go from unemployment to employment in record speed?  Well, if he or she doesn't have a doable action plan then he or she will most likely pay someone.  You just might get a limited education about your issue for free before you are persuaded into buying something that might help you, but maybe not depending on how stubborn you are.  One might also "beg" or network for an opportunity only to find that once again he or she is on a path of self-destruction again!  The prideful black man or woman never learns.

Why do we fall for the hype, the promise, or the hope that someone claims just because they appear nice or we did something for them?  You know you are aren't the non-black's favorite person especially if you are the outspoken type and at times brash with all your opinions/suggestions/concerns.  When will we learn the angry type of black is one of the most hated?  So why keep scowling, talking like you are the baddest you know what out here or acting as if you are so much better because you have money, assets or have some kind of leadership role somewhere?  Really!?  Then when it is all taken away, you talk as if you never lost anything--lol.

They know you black man/woman.  You can claim all you want, "They don't know me!" Yes they do.  You who dress so well with made up face, manicured nails and a beautiful wardrobe covering up the weaknesses within while accentuating your every curve, you are watched by anyone who wants to sleep with you and then on to the next one. 

Non-blacks have also read about you angry black man who claims justice for all, but yet you self-hate and run after all things that don't look like you, they got your number and your bank account. 

Let us not forget about the black entertainers here, there and everywhere.  Non-blacks know that when you are out of the limelight you are weak and miserable.  So you will come back, willing to do almost anything, for the fans who don't think much about you.  You are here for the moment and then you are gone replaced by someone more interesting.

We know how the story goes, our ancestors left behind many stories, you might be a well-fed, talented, and noble person, but you are still a slave...a black slave to those who observe you like you are some sort of zoo animal.  "How much do I need to come up with to get close enough to touch it?" the observant non-black says as he or she watches you in media bound by the mental and physical cages that you either volunteered to walk in, paid to get in or forced in.  That kind of bondage can't be shaken without a Savior, more money, and a functional support system. 

Many non-blacks' businesses are thriving and where's yours and how is it doing...well, it's just a deferred dream now isn't it?

Go back to your personal plan with notepad and pen in hand.  List what you most want to do with your life and just do it!  What you don't know you research and research until you can fully comprehend it.  You surround yourself around positive, successful people.  You pursue goals/dreams and use your haters to motivate you toward your life's purpose. While you learn and grow, you also study them like they study you.

Nicholl McGuire

11-3-14 The #ZoWhat? Morning Show - The African American Economics Summit

Looking to Start Your Own Business - Do You Have a Plan for Your Hustle?

Planning the Hustle is Far More Challenging than Playing the Game

Whatever your hustle professional or not, planning how you are going to get money is one of the most challenging things you will have to do in order to survive in this world.  Everyone expects to get paid from the grocery store owner to the relative you borrowed money from and with that said, if you don't plan your hustle right from the start, it will fail!

Now what you choose to do to make money and keep it coming for awhile is all up to you.  If you permit too many people in your ear about what it is you want to do, you will find yourself not doing too much of anything.  Your hustle must be kept private before telling any trusted advisers.  Ask yourself the following:

1.  What is it that I am willing to do to make money?
2.  Is what I am about to do legal?
3.  Am I willing to file the necessary paperwork to make it legit? 
4.  Am I qualified to do what I plan to do?  Do I have a license, certificate, degree, etc. for it?
5.  Who would be willing to help me?
6.  What tools will I need and how much will everything cost me?
7.  How much money will I need to make to keep my "hustle" or business afloat?

If you were interested in selling goods like cosmetics, clothing, home décor, etc. then you know that you will need suppliers.  You will also need to be sure that you have access to the people who might be interested in what you are selling.  What does the supply look like compared to the demand?  You know you will need a marketing plan and will have to invest much money and time to make your business a success.  If you barely have free time now, then how do you expect to give it your all to a business?

If you can answer simple questions about your business in detail, then you are on your way to building a solid business plan.  Use the Internet to find out how to build your organization.  Find business plan templates related to what you want to do and use them to help formulate your business structure.  Research competitors.  Talk with people in a similar industry.  Ask questions related to the pros and cons of running your operation.  Also, find out how you can get others to invest in your business.  But never go to people and ask them to help out when you have no paperwork, no bank account, and no verifiable information that shows you are indeed a legitimate business.  Honest people want to do business with honest folks!

To your success!

Nicholl McGuire is the author of When Mothers Cry, Know Your Enemy: The Christian's Critic and other books.  She has inspirational audios/videos on spiritual issues at YouTube channel: nmenterprise7. 

Don't Shame Yourself! Five Key Steps for Organizing Your Business Event

WorkersonBoard.com Founder

An African American author, blogger, and stay-at-home mom, Alicia Washington compiled a monster list of work at home opportunities on her website, check it out! http://www.workersonboard.com  This website is easy to navigate, very helpful and keeps you coming back for more.  Washington also has another home based business site: http://www.homebasedmommie.com

About Me

A Look Back on Black History Event Organizing & Money Woes

For a decade I sat in cultural diversity and minority groups, attended classes, and participated in events for Black History Month.  I recall the excitement I experienced in the past while preparing to add my two cents worth of service during a time of learning and growing when it comes to African American pride and achievement.  However, there were those moments where my celebrating was short-lived.  Back in the day, money was short so some Black History related events would either be delayed or cancelled.  Other times a few black organizers just couldn't get it together so an event could run smoothly.  People would show up late, have less than appealing attire, or tried to make-do with whatever for whenever.  I was reminded the other day when I saw a friend's profile of the marches and the town hall meetings demonstrating social injustice, and the more things change, the more things stay the same!  There are still the big photos of black men badly beaten by officers, angry eyes with signage that protest the system, the man, or whatever the latest issue maybe, and our people yelling a chant or marching where the upsetting circumstance took place.  

So here we are in 2012, I have a birdseye view of the African American events in my old hometown and other places I have lived.  The purpose of Black History month will always be about educating the public first and then any organizer who stands to gain a little "sumethin, sumethin" will have an agenda of some sort as a close second.  The last event I attended, I saw many small black businesses tempting me with things like African art, costume jewelry, clothing, DVDs, CDs, and literature.  The first time in history, I walked away without buying something this time.  I just wanted to observe for once.  There was plenty of music, of course.  Theatrical plays were also ongoing.  I also got an opportunity to network with black women as well without being interrupted by people bumping one another and acting loud and obnoxious (you know there are always a few.)  I had a good time.

I think one of the problems about Black History Month events, besides the lack of money for some, is the lack of planning.  Some organizers feel they can just throw something together and as long as the people come, "We got something."  Now if you want a cheap looking, unorganized, subpar event, then sure throw it together.  But, if you want something that will make a lasting memory, then plan that thing at least a year in advance.  I remember attending one event that had all the following and I walked away with some nice things too--I mean nice things not some dollar store looking stuff either!

Here's what I noticed about one successful Black History Event:

1.  It was held at a venue that was near a major mall and close to highway entrances.
2.  It was well-advertised for many weeks on radio, billboards, newspaper ads, and even commercials!
3.  The news media reported about it via press releases that were sent to the major news stations in the area.
4.  The Internet was also used to help spread news about the event.
5.  Donations to help fund the event came from everywhere!  Any individual or group who wanted to be seen didn' mind paying top dollar for a booth.
6.  People had to pay a small fee to get in.
7.  Local personalities were in attendance. 
8.  There were also a couple of A-List actors expected to come. (However, they were no shows.  You found out once you were already at the event.  I had to wonder if they ever really planned on coming to begin with, hmm.  But their names did draw people!)
9.  Church support was in abundance, because they too got an opportunity to pass out information about their churches.
10.  Local schools, colleges and military besides black businesses were also in attendance.  A big draw of young people with extra money attended.
11.  Musical performances and speaking engagements were held throughout the day which kept people coming.
12.  Activities for the children were plentiful. 

Being a black person attending a black event, there is so much pressure to support your own especially when you know that there are so many small black groups and businesses that just don't have enough money.  You honestly want to help everyone, that is if you are the caring and generous type, but seriously your money is most likely already stretched.  From children's school events that require a donation just about every month to churches that often remind you about giving your tithes and offerings, it isn't any wonder that there is any money left over to "bling" as they say on the street.

Nicholl McGuire

Why Blacks are not as Wealthy as Whites?

In Capitalist America, owning a business is the main ingredient in the recipe for creating wealth. Although the number of self-employed Black Americans doubled from 1984 to 2003, the Black American self-employment rate is less than half the national average and still lags behind Latino, Asian and White Americans.

According to the Small Business Administration, only 4.5 percent of blacks own their own business, compared with 7 percent of Latinos and 11 percent of white and Asian Americans. Black-owned businesses generate dramatically lower annual sales than firms owned by white and Asian Americans, and they are more likely to fail.

For years, University of California Santa Cruz (UC Santa Cruz) Economist Robert Fairlie, has analyzed data to understand these disparities and along with Alicia Robb of the Foundation for Sustainable Development, has uncovered the main factors that account for the lack of black owned businesses compared to other races:

• Insufficient amounts of startup capital

• Lack of self-employed work experience

• Lack of educational attainment

"Half of all Asian Americans in the labor market have a college education or higher," said Fairlie, emphasizing the importance of education.

"Business ownership is an alternative to unemployment and discrimination in the labor market, and political influence comes with success in small business," he said. "Historically in this country, we've seen rapid growth of business ownership among immigrants, including Chinese, Japanese, Jews, Italians, Greeks, and, most recently, Koreans."

Yet business ownership rates have been stagnant among Black Americans, said Fairlie, who presented his research during a conference titled "Race, Families, and Business Success: A Comparison of African American-, Asian- and White-Owned Businesses." His presentation was sponsored by the UCSC Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Office as part of its diversity lecture series.

In his analysis, Black-owned businesses average annual sales of about $60,000, compared with $167,000 for Latino-owned businesses, $219,000 for white-owned businesses, and $245,000 for Asian-owned businesses.

Only 14 percent of black-owned businesses generated annual profits of $10,000 or more, compared with 30 percent of white-owned businesses. Business failure rates during the first four years are 27 percent for black-owned businesses compared with 22.5 percent for white-owned businesses.

Sufficient startup capital, prior work experience in a family-owned business, and education emerged as the biggest differences in the success and survival of black, white and Asian-owned businesses. Having sufficient start-up capital accounted for 43 percent, self-employed work experience - 11 percent, and educational level about 6 percent of the difference in business ownership success.

Businesses launched with $100,000 or more of startup capital were twice as likely to prosper, but only 1.7 percent of black-owned businesses start out with more than $100,000, compared with 4.9 percent of white-owned firms, said Fairlie. Furthermore, only 6.5 percent of black-owned businesses start a business with more than $25,000 in capital, compared with 11.1 percent of white-owned firms and 12 percent of business owned by Asian Americans.

Why the large differences in start-up capital? Not surprisingly: Wealth! The net worth of blacks and whites accounts for the disparity in startup capital, said Fairlie. Defined as total assets, including home equity, automobiles, and savings, net worth for average Black Americans is about $6,000; Latino net worth averages $7,000; and White and Asian Americans net worth is about $70,000.

"Wealth inequality leads to these low levels of capital, which is a huge factor in determining the outcome of a business," said Fairlie, adding that, "Economists tend to focus on wage and income inequality, but there really needs to be more attention paid to wealth inequality in this country."

The alternative source for start-up capital are Bank and Government (SBA) loans. Not surprisingly, Asian Americans have been the leaders in snagging SBA business loans. Over the past ten years, Asians obtained 12.2% of the $85 billion in loans guaranteed by the SBA, while Latinos received 5.6% and Blacks 2.8%.

The USA Today also reported earlier this year how self-employed Asian Americans assist each other in business with alternative financing:

"Many Asian immigrants finance start-ups through informal loan associations. How they work: Twelve established Asian U.S. business owners will contribute $1,000 each to a fund. That $12,000 is loaned to a new immigrant entrepreneur. Loans are often interest-free, and agreements are sealed with a handshake," says Greg Fairchild, a professor at the University of Virginia. "It's a new version of what people have negatively called the good old boys' network," he says."

These types of business associations are dated back to the early 20th century in the United States when Asians were the primary foreign immigrant group. Unfortunately, there are no direct equivalents in other minority communities. Harry Alford, president of the National Black Chamber of Commerce, hopes one day there will be. Asians don't form loan pools "because they love each other," he says. "They see it as a necessity for business growth. We African-Americans have a natural dependency on waiting for the government to do something."

After reflecting on their discoveries, Fairlie and Robb point out several issues for government review, including improving bank lending laws to further protect Black Americans from financial discrimination, addressing wealth inequality, and developing internships that would help narrow the gap for the lack of work experience in family-owned businesses available to Black Americans.

Create Wealth, Enjoy Life!


Written by James Bird Guess

President & Founder The Black Economy.com

James "Bird" Guess graduated college with dreams of climbing the corporate ladder and becoming a prominent financial executive. But after only working a year in "Corporate America", James grew bitter of the politics and bureaucracy associated and decided to venture out on his own to become a full-time entrepreneur.

With a repossession and other unpaid debts on his credit, James had a negative net worth. Starting with only $1,000 saved from college, he single-handedly built a quarter million dollar apparel business from the trunk of his car. Shortly thereafter, his business model would transition from retailer to wholesaler of apparel, which generated $750,000 dollars in revenue.

James could now take one step closer toward financial freedom. As an entrepreneur, he has bought and sold over $1.5 million of apparel. He now uses his financial acumen to help individuals, entrepreneurs, businesses and investors create wealth in their lives! James is now the President & Founder of BlacBird Investments LLC. http://www.BlacBirds.com & http://www.theblackeconomy.com, Create Wealth! & Enjoy Life!

African American Entrepreneurs Why Some of Us Won't Do Business With Us

Over the past 15 years I have given both my money and service on and off to both african american men and women entrepreneurs and the results are in...I understand why a black woman I once knew said, "I'm sorry but I don't do business with our people." When she told me this, I had to catch myself from acting ghetto, "What?! You are a black person you know the struggle. Why would you even put your mouth to say that! Its because of people like you...do you know you wouldn't even be walking down the street with a white man if it wasn't for black people demanding equality! That's what's wrong with our people we don't support one another!" That was then, but this is now, I understand my sister why you said what you did.

Disappointment after disappointment, some NOT All of our people just don't have it together. I wanted to believe in these black entrepreneurs I dealt with in the past, honestly that's why I went to them in the first place. But there is always some fine print somewhere when dealing with some of these black entrepreneurs that lasks professionalism. Here's one example, "I can't pay any of my employees until next month." It was bad enough we were already getting paid once a month. Another black entrepreneur I worked for, "You m*therf*ckers better get it together or I am going to get rid of all of you," this was said to two men who the boss made his friends rather than his co-workers and he wondered why they slacked off. A childhood friend connection, "I'm sorry I forgot to send you what you asked for oh by the way don't do this...oh and don't do that..." If I would have known all the don't dos and the absentmindness before I spent far too much money, I would have never bought the product from this person in the first place! But when I dealt with the white business people they spelled everything out in advance and their prices were actually more affordable. A person who I didn't personally know makes an announcement one day on a social networking site, "I am planning a reunion event and I need everyone to send money," Uh, who are you? Do I know you? Who, what, when, where, why...that's what I was thinking when I dealt with this organizer. Then when I asked her questions she jumped out of her professional suit and became the angry black woman, "I am going to do this event and you are just jealous and blah, blah, blah!" Jealousy has nothing to do with asking you who you are, where is my money going and do I get a receipt! Here's one more situation involving an old mentor of mine, "I have been waiting for hours for you, when are you going to get my project done...I can't look bad, I am a professional." The sad part to this example I was the guilty one some years ago because I learned from the best laid back, "I don't care, take all day to do anything" type of black folks. Luckily, I matured and got mentors who dare I say it wasn't black and learned under them for a number of years only to come back to our people to get what I described previously. Needless to say, if I detect my brother or sister doesn't have their "stuff" together, I am taking my business elsewhere.

African Americans, Unemployment, And the US Economy

I had initially planned to write about my recent accomplishments with a landscaping project in our backyard however I ran across an article featured in the AFRO newspaper that caught my attention. I couldn't help but bring attention to the June Labor statistic regarding African Americans. Alan King, Staff Writer for the AFRO mentions in his article "African Americans lead in unemployment-June Labor Stats Show Little Change In Unemployment." The overall unemployment statistical picture showed the number of unemployed persons in the U.S. at 14 .7 million. " African Americans led the list at 14.7 percent, Hispanics followed at 12.2 and Caucasians at 8.7. Believe me, statistics and scarcity has away of bringing you to your knees.

They say you have to tread lightly when reading and deciphering statistics because they can paint a skewed picture. However, the present economic photograph has many flaws. America in all its grandeur and color is faced with dramatic present and future uncertainty. I am proud to shed light upon a culture and economic class (African Americans) who leads the number of workers unemployed here in the U.S. African Americans have wavered the storm in past histories and will do so again. However, they like all other Americans will have to implement ways in which to improvise. Quite frankly, creating a niche for yourself has much to do about your longevity in the economic marketplace whether it's getting a new job or starting your own business enterprise.

Just recently, I experienced firsthand how difficult it was to get a job. I applied for numerous jobs in which I know I was over qualified and jobs with less pay. I received pleasant, polite, and politically correct responses "stating how rigorous it was to find the most qualified applicant.". I failed to take a look at all the different reasons why I wasn't hired. I think you do have to consider the overall unemployment picture while building on your personal and professional skill set!

So, let us all consider how we will make the necessary changes to stay afloat. What belt tightening will you have to implement. Consider tackling two birds with one stone i.e. finding gardening space to grow your own vegetable garden giving back to the environment while improving your overall physical health. As an African American, I can give testimony to the synergistic energy behind storytelling which I have recently found beneficial. I must share with you that initially my objective were to bring attention to the misery and uncertainty in the African American community whom have been affected by job loss and unemployment way before the recession of 2007.

Unemployment is debilitating , individually painful, and has a way of tearing down all families and communities both locally and globally. It's a natural component of the U.S. economic system and will never completely go away. Do not for a moment conjure in your mind that I'm downing America . Our country (America) continues to possess abundancy, human potential , and opportunities unlike many of our global partners. Now's the time to secure more knowledge, seek your passion, and set realistic goals!

I hope this article will personally help each of us to take action reflecting on our strengths and innate gifts as we meet the growing economic uncertainty facing our nation.

Curt Canada MSW provides Personal Development Coaching and Advisement at Finding Your Zenith in Washington D.C. He holds a Masters in Social Work from The University of Iowa and a Masters in Teacher Education from the American University. Postgraduate Certification from The Institute for Motivational Living and The Institute for Life Coach Training.

Many African Americans Have their Priorities in the Wrong Places

Moving back to my childhood neighborhood has been an eye-opening experience. I see plenty of African Americans renting homes that use to be owned by Caucasians. Many of these homes that were freshly painted and surrounded with green manicured lawns are now overrun with weeds and the houses are literally ready to crumble! The awnings that are suspended to the front of the homes that once kept the owners dry from the wind, rain, and falling snow are tattered and ready to drop to the ground. Safety railings are rusted and almost uprooted out of the dirt. Rock walls are collapsing. Windows are either broken, boarded up, posted with newspaper, or have unsightly looking fabric or dirty, bent blinds. Wooden fences are rotting, and sidewalks and driveways are badly worn.

What happened? “African Americans can’t take care of nothing,” some older blacks have said of their own race. “It’s so sad to think that this was a place that used to be so nice!” It seems not only did my childhood neighborhood go downhill since our people took over, but those in my family said the same thing about their childhood surroundings. “We use to have all sorts of businesses, clubs, and bars in our neighborhood – it was nice!” But not anymore, the pain of racism, drugs, violence, war, and other calamities have came into these communities by those “who never had nothing nice” as my grandmother once told me, “…and don’t want you to have anything nice either!”

So why do so many African Americans move into communities then sit back and allow them to fall apart? No one really knows how to answer this question without blaming someone. A problem solver, optimistic type will visit an African American community dropping off yet another program to get the unruly children, drug dealers, drunks, beggars, prostitutes, and pimps off the street and the neighborhood beautified. This creative thinker recruits a team of like-minded wishful thinkers and tells them to ask others in the neighborhood to help. Mind you, this help comes after many years of negative experiences occurring in the neighborhood. Unfortunately, the program doesn’t last for long before there’s a scandal, someone is assaulted or robbed. Then the enthusiasm in the community diminishes and finances are depleted. Meanwhile, the community is listening to the sounds of bass and gun fire at various times of the day and night. With decorations here and there of nice churches, expensive cars; name-brand jackets, overly priced shoes, purses, jewelry, and long rainbow colored hair while homes, yards, and streets are in disarray!

It’s evident that many African Americans are more concerned about the cars they drive, the attire they wear, and the unhealthy food they eat, but rarely take notice of more significant matters such as: the piping in their home that needs to be replaced, the roaches that hide between the crevices in their walls, the paint that seems to be peeling everywhere you look, the windows that need to be replaced from the 1950s, the wiring that is waiting to catch a fire, and various appliances that need attention. From the looks of things, many African Americans simply have their priorities in the wrong places!

Now if we are looking to blame someone or something, blame the slavery mentality that is very much with us! Slaves were more concerned about their master's buildings then their own and their master's fields and roadways. They were proactive when it came to telling master who stole the last piece of chicken or who was caught with master’s wife, and they at times would be willing to die for their masters. However, today’s slave, he or she is still working hard for master in an air-conditioned environment, but when he or she comes home, they may not have a cooling system, let alone enough money to keep the electric bill current. So the next time you go into a black community, that you may have moved out of, keep in mind how it got that way, support your neighborhood’s businesses when you can, and thank God you are favored where you now live!

Written by Nicholl McGuire
http://nichollmcguire.blogspot.com