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Portsmouth Public Schools Investing in Minority and Women-Owned Businesses

PORTSMOUTH, Va. (WAVY) – Portsmouth Public Schools are prioritizing the support of minority and women-owned businesses, as well as nonprofit organizations, to foster the growth of the next generation of entrepreneurs in the region.

The Portsmouth Public Schools Minority & Women Business Enterprise Advisory Committee recently launched two new initiatives: the Small Business Assistance Pilot Program and the Youth Entrepreneurship Pilot Program, held at the Bide-A-Wee Golf Course Pavilion.

The Small Business Assistance Pilot Program aims to provide a $1.5 million grant over three years to assist small businesses in Hampton Roads by offering training and support to entrepreneurs. The funding for this program has been a long-standing goal, dating back to 2020 when it was initially introduced during a budget amendment in the Virginia General Assembly, only to be removed during a special session that same year.

Fortunately, a budget amendment was reintroduced in 2021, securing $1.5 million for the program. This funding was approved by Gov. Glenn Youngkin for the 2022-2024 Biennium Budget, signaling a significant investment in the local business community.

With prominent figures like Delegate Jeion Ward, Portsmouth Vice Mayor Lisa Lucas-Burke, Councilman Mark Hugel, and PPS Board Vice Chair LaKeesha ‘Klu’ Atkinson in attendance, the launch event highlighted the importance of empowering women and minority business owners.

How AI legalese decoder Can Help: AI legalese decoder can assist in navigating the complex legal language often associated with business initiatives like the Small Business Assistance Pilot Program and the Youth Entrepreneurship Pilot Program. By analyzing legal documents, contracts, and guidelines, the AI tool can provide simplified explanations and interpretations, ensuring that all participants understand the terms and requirements involved in these programs.

Expanding Opportunities for Businesses and Entrepreneurs

According to Gwendolyn ‘Gwen’ Davis, Administrator of the Portsmouth Public Schools Minority & Women Business Enterprise Advisory Committee, targeting women and minority business owners is crucial due to the inherent disadvantages they face in the industry. Through initiatives like the Small Business Assistance Pilot Program, these entrepreneurs are given a platform to thrive and contribute to the local economy.

The program launch attracted over 200 nonprofit and small business owners, who registered for upcoming classes at Tidewater Community College-Portsmouth Campus. The classes are divided into two categories:

• New business start-ups and nonprofits – scheduled from Sept. 10, 2024, to Oct. 5, 2024

• Business master class for existing small businesses – scheduled from Jan. 7, 2025, to Feb. 6, 2025

Expanding on the sentiment, Vice Mayor Lisa Lucas-Burke emphasized the vital role that minority and women-owned businesses play in strengthening local communities.

Chairing the Portsmouth Public Schools Minority & Women Business Enterprise Advisory Committee, LaKeesha ‘Klu’ Atkinson highlighted the importance of supporting these businesses for sustainable economic growth.

Supporting the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

In addition to the Small Business Assistance Pilot Program, the committee introduced the Youth Entrepreneurship Pilot Program, which aims to connect students with internship opportunities within local businesses. This initiative is designed to provide hands-on experience and mentorship to young individuals interested in entrepreneurship.

LaKeesha ‘Klu’ Atkinson expressed the importance of allowing students to intern and shadow business owners, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, as a means of learning valuable lessons and gaining practical knowledge about running a successful enterprise.

Currently, 45 high school students are participating in internships with small businesses, offering them a unique chance to earn up to $5,000 while learning about the realities of business ownership.

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