Across the world and throughout history, black women have founded businesses, revolutionized industries, and created jobs — often with no recognition.
Now, Black female-owned businesses are one of the fastest-growing economic forces in the US. Women of color are 4.5x more likely to start a business than other demographics, and the number of Black women-owned businesses grew by more than 67% in recent years. African American women own more than 2 million businesses, making them the leading female people of color business owners.
This rapid growth of Black women entrepreneurs is incredible. Why? It’s widely noted that Black women face additional hurdles as business owners and entrepreneurs. This is on top of the already daunting task of getting a business off the ground. Less access to startup capital, fewer resources and loans, and racial and gender discrimination are additional hurdles these women face.
As part of our mission at Invoice2go to create a global and inclusive culture, we want to celebrate the contributions black women make to the world of small business. This month, our The Female Founders Network is highlighting Black voices and, as always, recognizing inspirational women.
Starting and growing your business takes grit. To motivate you as you work towards your business goals, check out this advice from some of the most inspirational black leaders that serve as lightning rods for all women:
Gathering the courage to follow your dreams
Chasing your dreams opens a kaleidoscope of emotions – from excitement and joy to frustration and loneliness. If you feel your confidence faltering, remember the power of your mindset.
Harriet Tubman – Activist, Abolitionist
March 1822- March 10, 1913
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”
Wilma Rudolph – Athlete
June 23, 1940 – December 12, 1994
“Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us.”
Cathy Hughes – Entrepreneur, Radio and TV Personality
April 22 1947 – Present
“Not to let anyone convince you that your dream, your vision to be an entrepreneur, is something that you shouldn’t do. What often happens is that people who are well-meaning, who really care for us, are afraid for us and talk us out of it.”
Oprah Winfrey – Talk Show Host, Author, Actress, Philanthropist
January 29, 1954 – Present
“The key to realizing a dream is to focus not on success but on significance – and then even the small steps and little victories along your path will take on greater meaning.”
Ursula Burns – Businesswoman
September 20, 1958 – Present
“Find something that you love to do, and find a place that you really like to do it in. I found something I loved to do. I’m a mechanical engineer by training, and I loved it. I still do. My son is a nuclear engineer at MIT, a junior, and I get the same vibe from him. Your work has to be compelling. You spend a lot of time doing it.”
Dr. Mae Jemison – First Black Female Astronaut
October 17, 1956 – Present
“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.”
Persisting through struggles and setbacks
Remember: success in business – or any worthwhile endeavor – is never a straight line. Failure is part of the process.
Valerie Thomas – Scientist and Inventor
February 8, 1943 – Present
“Figuring out what you want comes from failing, and then trying again. It comes from questioning everything, falling in love, fighting the power, living without limits. It doesn’t come from getting straight A’s, playing by the rules, and listening obediently.”
Michelle Obama – Lawyer, Author
January 17, 1964 – Present
“Instead of letting your hardships and failures discourage or exhaust you, let them inspire you. Let them make you even hungrier to succeed.”
Nikki Giovanni – Writer, Activist, Educator
July 6, 1943 – Present
“I really don’t think life is about the I-could-have-beens. Life is only about the I-tried-to-do. I don’t mind the failure, but I can’t imagine that I’d forgive myself if I didn’t try.”
Leading the charge and taking action
It’s time to speak up and take control. No change was ever made by sitting around, bemoaning a problem. It takes guts to take a stand, however small. Follow your passion, and follow in the footsteps of these leaders.
Motivation and energy fluctuate. This happens to everyone – athlete, media mogul, or businesswoman. While the women who spoke these words may not have been talking about business, they certainly apply.
Shirley Chisolm – Politician, Educator, Author
November 30, 1924 – January 1, 2005
“You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.”
Maya Angelou – Poet
April 4, 1928 – May 28, 2014
“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”
Marian Wright Edelman – Children’s Rights Activist
June 6, 1939 – Present
“Never work just for money or for power. They won’t save your soul or help you sleep at night.”
Rosa Parks – Activist
April 2, 1913 – October 24, 2005
“I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.”
Madam C.J Walker – Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Political and Social Activist
December 23, 1867 – May 25, 1919
“Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.”
Diana Ross – Singer, Actress
March 26, 1944- Present
“Instead of looking at the past, I put myself ahead twenty years and try to look at what I need to do now in order to get there then.”
Maintaining humility and practicing self-care
Success and leadership aren’t measured by money or power. The most successful among us are often rich not only because of their wealth but also by their humility. Whether you’re already successful or working towards it, following the steps of these remarkable women will set you on the right path.
Burnout is real, and finding an equilibrium between your ambitions and self-care is essential. Remember to rest and spend time with those you love.
Divine Ndhlukula – One of Africa’s Most Successful Businesswomen
May 2, 1960 – Present
“Success depends on employees. For me knowing and connecting with my employees is very important.”
Serena Williams – World Class Athlete
September 26, 1981 – Present
“The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all, be humble.”
Meghan Markel – Actress, Activist
August 4, 1981 – Present
“Take things with a grain of salt, and find balance within your life. On your lunch break, leave to go and get some fresh air. You don’t need to make your life your job. I have to find that balance for myself, as well…I think you have to make time for yourself so that work doesn’t become the end-all-be-all.”
We hope you found this advice inspirational and helpful. Who are black women leaders that have inspired you? Join the conversation in The Female Founders Network community, connect with a supportive community, and get more tips for small business success. Also, be sure to check out The Female Founders podcast.
Across the world and throughout history, black women have founded businesses, revolutionized industries, and created jobs — often with no recognition.
Now, Black female-owned businesses are one of the fastest-growing economic forces in the US. Women of color are 4.5x more likely to start a business than other demographics, and the number of Black women-owned businesses grew by more than 67% in recent years. African American women own more than 2 million businesses, making them the leading female people of color business owners.
This rapid growth of Black women entrepreneurs is incredible. Why? It’s widely noted that Black women face additional hurdles as business owners and entrepreneurs. This is on top of the already daunting task of getting a business off the ground. Less access to startup capital, fewer resources and loans, and racial and gender discrimination are additional hurdles these women face.
As part of our mission at Invoice2go to create a global and inclusive culture, we want to celebrate the contributions black women make to the world of small business. This month, our The Female Founders Network is highlighting Black voices and, as always, recognizing inspirational women.
Starting and growing your business takes grit. To motivate you as you work towards your business goals, check out this advice from some of the most inspirational black leaders that serve as lightning rods for all women:
Gathering the courage to follow your dreams
Chasing your dreams opens a kaleidoscope of emotions – from excitement and joy to frustration and loneliness. If you feel your confidence faltering, remember the power of your mindset.
Harriet Tubman – Activist, Abolitionist
March 1822- March 10, 1913
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”
Wilma Rudolph – Athlete
June 23, 1940 – December 12, 1994
“Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us.”
Cathy Hughes – Entrepreneur, Radio and TV Personality
April 22 1947 – Present
“Not to let anyone convince you that your dream, your vision to be an entrepreneur, is something that you shouldn’t do. What often happens is that people who are well-meaning, who really care for us, are afraid for us and talk us out of it.”
Oprah Winfrey – Talk Show Host, Author, Actress, Philanthropist
January 29, 1954 – Present
“The key to realizing a dream is to focus not on success but on significance – and then even the small steps and little victories along your path will take on greater meaning.”
Ursula Burns – Businesswoman
September 20, 1958 – Present
“Find something that you love to do, and find a place that you really like to do it in. I found something I loved to do. I’m a mechanical engineer by training, and I loved it. I still do. My son is a nuclear engineer at MIT, a junior, and I get the same vibe from him. Your work has to be compelling. You spend a lot of time doing it.”
Dr. Mae Jemison – First Black Female Astronaut
October 17, 1956 – Present
“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.”
Persisting through struggles and setbacks
Remember: success in business – or any worthwhile endeavor – is never a straight line. Failure is part of the process.
Valerie Thomas – Scientist and Inventor
February 8, 1943 – Present
“Figuring out what you want comes from failing, and then trying again. It comes from questioning everything, falling in love, fighting the power, living without limits. It doesn’t come from getting straight A’s, playing by the rules, and listening obediently.”
Michelle Obama – Lawyer, Author
January 17, 1964 – Present
“Instead of letting your hardships and failures discourage or exhaust you, let them inspire you. Let them make you even hungrier to succeed.”
Nikki Giovanni – Writer, Activist, Educator
July 6, 1943 – Present
“I really don’t think life is about the I-could-have-beens. Life is only about the I-tried-to-do. I don’t mind the failure, but I can’t imagine that I’d forgive myself if I didn’t try.”
Leading the charge and taking action
It’s time to speak up and take control. No change was ever made by sitting around, bemoaning a problem. It takes guts to take a stand, however small. Follow your passion, and follow in the footsteps of these leaders.
Motivation and energy fluctuate. This happens to everyone – athlete, media mogul, or businesswoman. While the women who spoke these words may not have been talking about business, they certainly apply.
Shirley Chisolm – Politician, Educator, Author
November 30, 1924 – January 1, 2005
“You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.”
Maya Angelou – Poet
April 4, 1928 – May 28, 2014
“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”
Marian Wright Edelman – Children’s Rights Activist
June 6, 1939 – Present
“Never work just for money or for power. They won’t save your soul or help you sleep at night.”
Rosa Parks – Activist
April 2, 1913 – October 24, 2005
“I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.”
Madam C.J Walker – Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Political and Social Activist
December 23, 1867 – May 25, 1919
“Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.”
Diana Ross – Singer, Actress
March 26, 1944- Present
“Instead of looking at the past, I put myself ahead twenty years and try to look at what I need to do now in order to get there then.”
Maintaining humility and practicing self-care
Success and leadership aren’t measured by money or power. The most successful among us are often rich not only because of their wealth but also by their humility. Whether you’re already successful or working towards it, following the steps of these remarkable women will set you on the right path.
Burnout is real, and finding an equilibrium between your ambitions and self-care is essential. Remember to rest and spend time with those you love.
Divine Ndhlukula – One of Africa’s Most Successful Businesswomen
May 2, 1960 – Present
“Success depends on employees. For me knowing and connecting with my employees is very important.”
Serena Williams – World Class Athlete
September 26, 1981 – Present
“The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all, be humble.”
Meghan Markel – Actress, Activist
August 4, 1981 – Present
“Take things with a grain of salt, and find balance within your life. On your lunch break, leave to go and get some fresh air. You don’t need to make your life your job. I have to find that balance for myself, as well…I think you have to make time for yourself so that work doesn’t become the end-all-be-all.”
We hope you found this advice inspirational and helpful. Who are black women leaders that have inspired you? Join the conversation in The Female Founders Network community, connect with a supportive community, and get more tips for small business success. Also, be sure to check out The Female Founders podcast.
Across the world and throughout history, black women have founded businesses, revolutionized industries, and created jobs — often with no recognition.
Now, Black female-owned businesses are one of the fastest-growing economic forces in the US. Women of color are 4.5x more likely to start a business than other demographics, and the number of Black women-owned businesses grew by more than 67% in recent years. African American women own more than 2 million businesses, making them the leading female people of color business owners.
This rapid growth of Black women entrepreneurs is incredible. Why? It’s widely noted that Black women face additional hurdles as business owners and entrepreneurs. This is on top of the already daunting task of getting a business off the ground. Less access to startup capital, fewer resources and loans, and racial and gender discrimination are additional hurdles these women face.
As part of our mission at Invoice2go to create a global and inclusive culture, we want to celebrate the contributions black women make to the world of small business. This month, our The Female Founders Network is highlighting Black voices and, as always, recognizing inspirational women.
Starting and growing your business takes grit. To motivate you as you work towards your business goals, check out this advice from some of the most inspirational black leaders that serve as lightning rods for all women:
Gathering the courage to follow your dreams
Chasing your dreams opens a kaleidoscope of emotions – from excitement and joy to frustration and loneliness. If you feel your confidence faltering, remember the power of your mindset.
Harriet Tubman – Activist, Abolitionist
March 1822- March 10, 1913
“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.”
Wilma Rudolph – Athlete
June 23, 1940 – December 12, 1994
“Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us.”
Cathy Hughes – Entrepreneur, Radio and TV Personality
April 22 1947 – Present
“Not to let anyone convince you that your dream, your vision to be an entrepreneur, is something that you shouldn’t do. What often happens is that people who are well-meaning, who really care for us, are afraid for us and talk us out of it.”
Oprah Winfrey – Talk Show Host, Author, Actress, Philanthropist
January 29, 1954 – Present
“The key to realizing a dream is to focus not on success but on significance – and then even the small steps and little victories along your path will take on greater meaning.”
Ursula Burns – Businesswoman
September 20, 1958 – Present
“Find something that you love to do, and find a place that you really like to do it in. I found something I loved to do. I’m a mechanical engineer by training, and I loved it. I still do. My son is a nuclear engineer at MIT, a junior, and I get the same vibe from him. Your work has to be compelling. You spend a lot of time doing it.”
Dr. Mae Jemison – First Black Female Astronaut
October 17, 1956 – Present
“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations.”
Persisting through struggles and setbacks
Remember: success in business – or any worthwhile endeavor – is never a straight line. Failure is part of the process.
Valerie Thomas – Scientist and Inventor
February 8, 1943 – Present
“Figuring out what you want comes from failing, and then trying again. It comes from questioning everything, falling in love, fighting the power, living without limits. It doesn’t come from getting straight A’s, playing by the rules, and listening obediently.”
Michelle Obama – Lawyer, Author
January 17, 1964 – Present
“Instead of letting your hardships and failures discourage or exhaust you, let them inspire you. Let them make you even hungrier to succeed.”
Nikki Giovanni – Writer, Activist, Educator
July 6, 1943 – Present
“I really don’t think life is about the I-could-have-beens. Life is only about the I-tried-to-do. I don’t mind the failure, but I can’t imagine that I’d forgive myself if I didn’t try.”
Leading the charge and taking action
It’s time to speak up and take control. No change was ever made by sitting around, bemoaning a problem. It takes guts to take a stand, however small. Follow your passion, and follow in the footsteps of these leaders.
Motivation and energy fluctuate. This happens to everyone – athlete, media mogul, or businesswoman. While the women who spoke these words may not have been talking about business, they certainly apply.
Shirley Chisolm – Politician, Educator, Author
November 30, 1924 – January 1, 2005
“You don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines, whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.”
Maya Angelou – Poet
April 4, 1928 – May 28, 2014
“If you don’t like something, change it. If you can’t change it, change your attitude.”
Marian Wright Edelman – Children’s Rights Activist
June 6, 1939 – Present
“Never work just for money or for power. They won’t save your soul or help you sleep at night.”
Rosa Parks – Activist
April 2, 1913 – October 24, 2005
“I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.”
Madam C.J Walker – Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Political and Social Activist
December 23, 1867 – May 25, 1919
“Don’t sit down and wait for the opportunities to come. Get up and make them.”
Diana Ross – Singer, Actress
March 26, 1944- Present
“Instead of looking at the past, I put myself ahead twenty years and try to look at what I need to do now in order to get there then.”
Maintaining humility and practicing self-care
Success and leadership aren’t measured by money or power. The most successful among us are often rich not only because of their wealth but also by their humility. Whether you’re already successful or working towards it, following the steps of these remarkable women will set you on the right path.
Burnout is real, and finding an equilibrium between your ambitions and self-care is essential. Remember to rest and spend time with those you love.
Divine Ndhlukula – One of Africa’s Most Successful Businesswomen
May 2, 1960 – Present
“Success depends on employees. For me knowing and connecting with my employees is very important.”
Serena Williams – World Class Athlete
September 26, 1981 – Present
“The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous: be strong, be extremely kind, and above all, be humble.”
Meghan Markel – Actress, Activist
August 4, 1981 – Present
“Take things with a grain of salt, and find balance within your life. On your lunch break, leave to go and get some fresh air. You don’t need to make your life your job. I have to find that balance for myself, as well…I think you have to make time for yourself so that work doesn’t become the end-all-be-all.”
We hope you found this advice inspirational and helpful. Who are black women leaders that have inspired you? Join the conversation in The Female Founders Network community, connect with a supportive community, and get more tips for small business success. Also, be sure to check out The Female Founders podcast.
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