Question 1

What is Black Dolla Connect?

Accepted Answer

Black Dolla Connect is a non-profit organization focused on strengthening the economic health of underrepresented communities. Our primary goal is to ensure consumers’ immediate needs are being met while also supporting the growth and development of small Black-owned businesses. We connect consumers to these businesses, making it easier to support them, and we provide businesses with access to resources that help them thrive. Additionally, we offer foundational courses tailored to aspiring entrepreneurs, side hustlers, and established businesses looking to revisit the basics. Our focus is on fostering relationships, creating opportunities, and equipping individuals and businesses with the tools they need to succeed both personally and professionally.

Question 2

How Black Dolla Indy and Black Dolla Connect are different?

Accepted Answer

While both Black Dolla Indy and Black Dolla Connect are focused on empowering the Black community, they have different roles. Black Dolla Indy, the for-profit side, focuses on marketing strategies to help Black-owned businesses strengthen their visibility and reach their target markets. Black Dolla Connect, the non-profit side, includes a digital social platform that connects consumers with Black-owned businesses. It also offers the Prep & Access course for aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses, and provides referrals to resources and more advanced programs after participants complete the course. Together, they create a comprehensive support system for Black businesses and consumers.

Question 3

What services does BD Connect Offer?

Accepted Answer

Black Dolla Connect offers a variety of services aimed at empowering underrepresented communities and supporting Black-owned businesses:

• Ideation Courses: Foundational courses designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, side hustlers, and established businesses looking to revisit the basics.
 • Real-Time Referrals: Connecting businesses with valuable resources and complex programs to help them grow and succeed.
 • Events and Collaborations: Organizing events that foster connections between consumers, Black-owned businesses, and community organizations, promoting financial stability and personal growth.

Question 4

What makes Black Dolla Connect different from other business support programs?

Accepted Answer

Black Dolla Connect focuses on fundamentals, catering specifically to individuals who need help getting started, side hustlers formalizing their work, and businesses looking to rebuild their foundation. We emphasize collaboration over competition, partnering with organizations like Verizon Digital Ready by way of LISC Indy, ISBDC and Edna Martin Christian Center to connect participants with resources for growth and sustainability after completing our program.

Question 5

What is the cost to participate in Black Dolla Connect’s programs?

Accepted Answer

The cost for the Prep & Access Cohort includes a range of business-building tools and resources, such as a working business plan, marketing materials, and access to essential services. The price is designed to be affordable, with sponsorships or scholarships available for those who qualify.

Question 6

How can investors or organizations support Black Dolla Connect?

Accepted Answer

Financial Contributions: Provide donations or grants to fund programs like the Prep & Access course, which equips aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with essential tools and resources.

• Sponsorships: Sponsor events, workshops, or initiatives to help bring together Black-owned businesses and consumers, increasing visibility and community impact.
 • Resource Partnerships: Offer in-kind support such as event spaces, technology, or professional services to enhance Black Dolla Connect’s programs and operations.
 • Contracting the Prep & Access Course: Work with Black Dolla Connect to incorporate the Prep & Access course into your existing programs. This foundational course can act as a prerequisite, preparing participants for more complex workshops and initiatives your organization offers.
 • Expertise and Mentorship: Provide subject matter expertise, mentorship, or guest speaking opportunities to support participants in their entrepreneurial journeys.
 • Promoting Awareness: Share Black Dolla Connect’s mission and initiatives within your network to attract more supporters and increase community engagement.

By contributing in these ways, investors and organizations can directly impact the economic growth of underrepresented communities and empower Black-owned businesses.

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