By attending this workshop, you'll unlock a pathway to overcoming the pervasive challenges encountered by small business owners, especially those from under-represented backgrounds.
Forbes' research underscores the harsh reality: minority business owners, notably Black entrepreneurs, grapple with hurdles in accessing capital, constraining their capacity to thrive and expand. Access to capital stands as a formidable barrier, stunting growth and perpetuating inequalities within the entrepreneurial landscape.
This session will dissect the intricate dynamics surrounding funding issues, unveiling their profound impact on entrepreneurship.
TRBOT members receive free access to the workshops, whereas non-members can attend for a small fee. Get in touch with us to know more about our memberships.
Key Takeways:
- Understanding Systemic Barriers: Gain invaluable insights into the systemic hurdles impeding under-represented groups' access to capital.
- Exploring Economic Impact: Explore the significant missed opportunities for small businesses and the wider Canadian economy due to limited capital access.
- Rethinking Lending Practices: Embrace the imperative for lenders to transcend traditional credit practices, fostering inclusivity and amplifying capital access for all deserving groups.
- Meridian's Initiative: Dive into Meridian Credit Union's pioneering small business lending program, forged in collaboration with the Business Development Bank (BDC), aimed at bridging the gap and providing growth capital for under-represented groups.
This workshop offers a unique opportunity for business owners grappling with similar challenges to engage directly with experts from Meridian, find out more about their innovative lending program and unearth solutions to funding obstacles.
Join us and contribute to a transformative dialogue that's reshaping the landscape into a more inclusive and supportive environment for small businesses.
Meridian is Ontario’s largest credit union, and second largest in Canada, with over $30.8 billion in assets under management (June 30, 2023). Guided by their purpose, “helping you achieve your best life,” Meridian delivers personal, business and wealth financial solutions to over 370,000 Members. This bold Meridian for Good strategy is aimed at helping people get access to the money and advice they need; plan for a better future that is clean, resilient, and diverse; and be financially confident.