As we celebrate “Small Business Month,” it is essential to highlight the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. Obstacles such as gender inequality and difficulty obtaining financing can impede progress and innovation. However, amid these obstacles, stories like that of Darcris Beauty Distributor Inc. illuminate the resilience and determination of women entrepreneurs.
Darcris Beauty Distributor Inc. offers hair and beauty products to salons in Philadelphia. Owner Tannia Solis began working as a sales representative in 2008 and in 2019, she started Darcris Beauty Distributor. Her business flourished with the successful infusion of her passion for helping the community and her knowledge of the hair care industry. With the help of Community First Fund together with FINANTA, Darcris Beauty Distributor has become more than just a business. With Tannia’s leadership, it has been the foundation for a nonprofit organization for cosmetology professionals in Pennsylvania and a new business, Darcris MultiServices, set to open in 2024.
However, for many women entrepreneurs like Tannia, the path to success is not without obstacles. As primary caregivers for the immediate and extended family, women experience a loss of income or a decrease in business income due to taking time off to fulfill this role. This affects the financial stability and growth prospects of their companies. Additionally, balancing caregiving responsibilities with business ownership can hinder your ability to expand your businesses or take on leadership roles.
Access to finance remains a major issue, as businesses run by women often receive less financial support than businesses owned by men. Fortunately, there are resources to support women entrepreneurs in overcoming these challenges. Organizations like Community First Fund together with FINANTA play a critical role in providing financial assistance and business support to women-owned businesses. Through initiatives designed to address the unique needs of women entrepreneurs, Community First Fund together with FINANTA helps close the financing gap and fosters economic empowerment within our communities.
As we celebrate “Small Business Month,” they reaffirm their commitment to supporting and empowering women entrepreneurs. By meeting the challenges, they face head-on and leveraging resources like those of the Community First Fund together with FINANTA, they create a more inclusive and equitable landscape for all entrepreneurs to thrive.
