In this week’s issue of Sisters, you read about a 53-year-old hairdresser who is now earning income by designing and selling face masks. Sisterpreneurs across the country are having to find creative ways to pivot and stay afloat. As we all know, COVID-19 and the widespread lockdowns have dealt a critical blow to small businesses. Black women have always hustled hard — since 2007, the number of firms owned by African American women has grown by 164 percent. This also means more of our businesses and their employees are hurting.
Since launching Sisters, spotlighting Black-owned businesses has been a natural part of our mission to serve the community. You’ve read about African American innkeepers, jewelry designers, hairstylists, spas, nutritionists, fitness trainers, financial planners, winemakers, tour operators and others right here. As we navigate these difficult times, Sisters will continue to spotlight small-business owners. We’d like to hear about the creative ways you are trying to stay afloat — and how readers can support you — so that we can share your story via our platforms. While we can’t publish every submission, we’ll feature several in an upcoming article.
Have you turned to new practices such as virtual meetings, contactless delivery or curbside pickup? Are you exploring new marketing or funding solutions? Have you tailored a product or service to meet a new need?
Let Sisters know what you’re doing and how the public — and other entrepreneurs — can support your business. We may be in touch with you about the possibility of featuring your story in a larger piece highlighting several women-owned small businesses.
You must own all rights to any photos/videos you share and Sisters must be able to use your submission without restriction in all media.
Tell us your name, age, business name and location. And share what you are doing to stay in business. Email the information to Sistersletter@aarp.org by Friday, May 22, and put "small business" in the subject line.
Stay strong,
Claire
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