The Future of Entrepreneurship in America with US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo

Entrepreneurship in America is at a crossroads. New business creation is up, but only 2% of America’s employer businesses are Black-owned, just 6% are Hispanic-owned, and men own three times the number of businesses than women. There are many reasons why there’s a dearth of minority-owned businesses, but the result is the same: too many women and people of color don’t have equitable opportunities to start, scale, and own businesses.

Changing these trends will require a robust response from the federal government, and the Department of Commerce will play a critical role in this effort. Please join the Alliance for Entrepreneurial Equity for an in-person conversation with Secretary Gina Raimondo as we explore barriers facing women and minority entrepreneurs and how the Department is working to expand opportunity throughout the entire entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The fireside chat with Secretary Raimondo is being moderated by Ylan Mui, Washington Correspondent for CNBC. Following that, there will be a panel discussing the role of the private sector in supporting the nation’s entrepreneurs. Panelists include:

• Claire O’Donnell, Director of Selling Partner Communities and Small Business Empowerment, Amazon
• Ruben Barrales, Senior Vice President, External Engagement for Diverse Segments, Representation & Inclusion, Wells Fargo
• Imani Augustus, Director, Alliance for Entrepreneurial Equity

Doors open at 12:15 PM, and we will provide lunch!

Please note: All attendees must have proof of vaccination for entry, as required by the National Press Club.