2024:
Completed the research project “Towards Equity – The Struggles and Successes of BIPOC- and Immigrant-Owned Small Businesses,” funded by CURA, focusing on systemic barriers and solutions for marginalized business owners in the northwest suburbs of the Twin Cities.
Provided assistance to underserved businesses through Underserved Business Month, including targeted initiatives and awareness campaigns.
Hosted a successful UBM Kickoff event on April 25th to support underserved businesses.
Engaged in capacity development initiatives for LM Legacy Wellness and Mending Hearts Life Coaching under the Incubation and Acceleration Program for Nonprofits (IAPN).
2023:
Transitioned from Minnesota African Coalition (MAC) to Equitable Development Action (EDA) in May, expanding the mission to foster equity and economic inclusion through capacity development.
Hosted a pre-launch kickoff event to unify supporters and stakeholders, setting the stage for collaborative efforts in equitable economic development.
Developed programs such as Economic Development and Services Program and BIPOC Startup Week Program to support economic growth and entrepreneurship in marginalized communities.
2019 - 2022:
Collaborated with over 30 organizations that led to the state appropriation of $20 million for the Small and Micro Business Disaster Relief Fund, supporting minority-owned businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic
Advocated for legislative bills addressing disparities exacerbated by COVID-19 and George Floyd’s death in Minnesota.
Conducted Dakota County Engagement, providing COVID-19 education and support to over 1400 residents, streamlining community-based funding processes.
Engaged in community outreach for the Brooklyn Center Opportunity Site Pilot Project for 83 acres redevelopment by the City
Established the Minnesota African Coalition COVID-19 Taskforce (MACC-T) to mitigate pandemic impacts on communities of color, supporting small business stability through financial mobilization.
Launched the Brooklyn Center Opportunity Site Pilot Project to engage African communities in shaping urban development, reaching over 70,000 impressions on social media.
Advocated for legislative measures and funding to address disparities exacerbated by COVID-19 and racial injustices in Minnesota.
These achievements highlight EDA’s ongoing commitment to promoting equity, economic inclusion, and generational wealth-building across underserved communities in Minnesota.