WHERE’S THE FUNDING?

How I Bootstrapped a Luxury Jet Business with Michael Darko S7 Ep. 6Michael Darko is the founder & CEO of Farringdon Jets, The Worlds MostSecurity Focused Jet Charter Company. After becoming familiar with the needs of High- and Ultra-High-Net-Worth-Individuals through his international career in property and offshore wealth management, Michael decided to merge his experience and network with his lifelong passion for aviation to launch Farringdon Jets, a luxury charter jet service that fills the need in the market by prioritizing safety and security for its clients not just in the air but on the ground too.In this episode youll learn: How he bootstrap a successful charter jet company; and Why he is looking to raise funds for the next stage of his travel venture. When was the last time you enjoyed REST?At the WTF? Podcast we are big proponents of rest as a productivity hack. Book your next relaxing luxury getaway with our partner in rest and luxury at Farringdon Jets!Learn more about Michael:michaeldarko.comLinkedin:Email: michael@fardingtonjets.comI hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with others.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.

Be Hungry But Not Thirsty When Pitching VCs with Arlan Hamilton S7 Ep. 5Seven years ago she was broke and sleeping on the airport floor. Now she is a successful investor, entrepreneur, and author..Arlan Hamilton of Backstage Capital, Runner and author of Its About Damn Time published well before singer Lizzos popular song by the same name. Backstage Capital is a venture capital firm dedicated to minimizing funding disparities in tech by investing in high-potential founders who are people of color, women, and/or LGBT. Started from scratch in 2015, Backstage has now raised over $20 million and invested in more than 150 startup companies led by underestimated founders.In this episode we discuss: Arlans top recommendations for how to turn being underestimated into your greatest advantage How she pivoted from tour manager to venture capitalist Why you should be hungry but never thirsty when pitching VCs When was the last time you enjoyed REST?At the WTF? Podcast we are big proponents of rest as a productivity hack. Book your next relaxing luxury getaway with our partner in rest and luxury at Farringdon Jets!Learn more about Arlan:LinkedIn:Instagram:Twitter Learn more about Backstage Capital here: https://backstagecapital.com/ Its About Damn Time: https://www.itsaboutdamntime.com/ Learn more about Runner here: https://www.hirerunner.co/ I hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with others.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.

Scaling Black Beauty with Leslie Roberson S7 Ep. 4The US beauty industry is worth about $60 billion and spending on beauty is robust among Black Americans, a diverse and growing group of 41 million people with increasing spending power. In 2021, they spent $6.6 billion on beauty. However, Black brands make up only 2.5 percent of revenue in the beauty industry and Black consumers are responsible for 11.1 percent of total beauty spending according to a 2022 McKinsey & Company report titled Black Representation in the Beauty Industry. Leslie is on a mission to fix that by creating opportunities for Black women to thrive in the beauty space. Stick around to find out how.Leslie Roberson is the Founder of the Black Beauty Collective with a dynamic past that lead her to create an initiative that fills a gap in the beauty industry. Leslie is a military veteran and has a background in corporate talent acquisition and business development. She is an expert at leading human resource functions, acquiring and training senior staff, and having an eye for unique talent.In this episode we discuss: How she is creating place and space for Black women in the beauty business to feel valued, seen and heard Providing a sense of community with built in business development resources to help founders in the collective thrive through community and collaboration. PR is an important part of a businesses marketing strategy. The WTF? Podcast has partnered with The PR University to help your business get SEEN and VALUED by your target customers.If you want to learn How to be SEEN and HEARD via social and other media, follow these steps to use the WTF25 code to get a 25% discount on the Do It Yourself PR 101 class at The PR University:1. Go to www.thePRuniversity.com to view all course options or go straight to the class at Do It Yourself PR (thinkific.com)2. Go to the sign up option with either one of the buttons and follow the prompt to purchase the course - use the code "wtf25 - to get the course access for 25% off.3. You can start the DIY course as soon as you are ready!Learn more about Leslie:InstagramLinkedInLearn more about the Black Beauty Collective:InstagramWebsiteI hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with 3 friends.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn

Investing in BIPOC Founders and Normalizing Black Wealth with Danielle Shoots S7 Ep. 3Danielle Shoots is the Managing Partner and Managing Director of the New Community Transformation Fund a $50 million equity venture capital fund for BIPOC founders in Denver. She is also President and CEO of Wealth Equity Enterprises, her holdings company, which owns several businesses that support the mission of building BIPOC wealth and leadership.Her passion for people and leadership, distinguished business acumen, and tenacious work ethic have garnered her numerous accolades, including the 2019 list of the Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Business from the Colorado Womens Chamber of Commerce, the 2020 Emerging Leader in Philanthropy award, the 2018 Woman of the Year award, and a recipient of the 2017 Denver Business Journals 40 Under 40 award.In this episode we discuss: Her leadership and entrepreneurship journey Insights for Black women about leadership and growing a profitable business How she is building BIPOC wealth and leadership The New Community Transformation Fund and its unique approach The most significant challenges founders should be aware of when raising their first round of funding; and What she looks for in founders she funds When was the last time you enjoyed REST?At the WTF? Podcast we are big proponents of rest as a productivity hack. Book your next relaxing luxury getaway with our partner in rest and luxury at Farringdon Jets!Learn more about Danielle:WebsiteLinkedinTwitterInstagram:Learn more about Wealth Equity Enterprises here: https://wealthequityent.com/I hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself. f you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with three friends. Sharing is caring so be generous.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.

Pull Up and Pitch to Win with Omi Bell S7. Ep. 2She dabbled in all sorts of ventures such as building a tent in her living room to rent on AirBnB, building furniture, owning a t-shirt company and a print shop before she started Black Girl Ventures. Stick around to hear how this system disruptor moves ideas to profit while empowering people to live more authentically.Shelly Omild Bell ("Omi" Bell) She was named one of the Top 100 Powerful Women in Business by Entrepreneur Mag,Entrepreneur of the Year by Technically DC, and acknowledged as ARising Brand Star by Adweek. She is among the nation's most sought-after inspirational speakers in the DC Metro area with features in Forbes, The Washington Business Journal, NewsOne, The Afro, People of Color in Tech, and on Politico Live. Her organization, Black Girl Ventures (BGV) is a social enterprise that creates access to social and financial capital for Black/Brown women founders.In this episode well discuss: How her endeavors before the started Black Girl Ventures Her pitching advice for Black women to help them stand out and improve their fundraising outcomes What not to say when you are pitching investors The things founders should know and do when they are pitching Learn more about Omi:Linkedin:@omibell: Twitter: @theomibell: Instagram: @omibell: Facebook: /theomibellLearn more about Black Girl Ventures: https://www.blackgirlventures.org/Instagram: @blackgirlventures Twitter: @bgirlventures Facebook:/blackgirlventuresAt the WTF? Podcat we are big proponents of rest as a productivity hack. Book your next relaxing luxury getaway with Farringdon Jets!I hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with three friends. Sharing is caring so be generous.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.

OMG Milestone Season with Michelle McKenzie S7 Ep.1Hey WTF? Podcast listeners! If you are new here, welcome. If you have been rocking with me for a while, thank you for being here!Its been three years of podcasting and before the end of this season I will hit the 100th episode mark! Stay tuned to see what it will be about and make sure to check out all of the wonderful episodes coming up this season!Please complete this survey to let me know how I can I can improve the podcast.See you on the other side of the season.Michelle

Changing the Funding Ecosystem for Afropreneurs with Fernando Cabral S6 Ep. 12If you are an early-stage Black founder, keep listening to learn how to survive your first 24 months as a startup entrepreneur.Fernando Cabral is the co-founder of Djassi Africa, which invests in African tech-enabled startups and ecosystem builders by providing world-class expertise, operational support, and access to a global network to help these startups build the future of Africa.In this episode youll learn: How Djassi Africa is empowering African and Afro-descendent founders and supporting entrepreneurship ecosystem builders How hes working to change the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Portugal for Black founders through the Afropreneur initiative; and How to survive your first 24 months as a Black founder Learn more about Fernando here:Fernando CabralFounder & Managing Director | FS-360Chief Venture Growth | Djassi AfricaLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fjcabral/www.fs360global.comwww.djassiafrica.comAfropreneurs.pt: https://www.afropreneurs.pt/To my listeners, I hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with others.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.Join me next Friday for another episode.

5 Fundability Factors for Building Small Business Credit with Jonathan Fodera S6 Ep.11If you are a small business owner, lean in and keep listening to hear more about how to structure your business to qualify for SBA and commercial bank credit for your business. My guest is the President of Integrated Business Financing, and the host of the podcast Create Success Out Of iFailure. Jonathan Fodera has been in business financing for 14 years and has helped thousands of entrepreneurs get over $500 million in funds. He founded Integrated Business Financing, a small business lending marketplace specializing in getting businesses into the best financing programs they qualify for.In this episode we discussed: The findability factors for accessing business credit How to cut payment processing costs by 95%. How to set up your business for long-term success. The best time to apply for business financing Understanding common mistakes entrepreneurs make and how to avoid them. Key Takeaways: Cash Flow management helps with business financing Apply for financing when you dont need it 4 Things to Decide to Fund a Small Business; Business and personal credit Strong cash flow Profitability To my listeners, I hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself. If you liked it, leave a rating and review and share this episode with other people who need to hear it. Click here to review: https://kite.link/where-E2-80-99s-the-funding-3FSubscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.Join me next Friday for another episode.

Strategies to Standout on Social Media, Market and Increase Revenues with Danielle Jeter S6 Ep.9Danielle P. Jeter has been quoted in over 20 national publications for her ability to advocate, inspire, lead, and build community. Her relentless pursuit of storytelling has culminated in hundreds of media features for her clients and partners!Danielle is a dynamic storyteller and an award-winning travelpreneur. Her 13 years of experience and proven strategies have garnered her opportunities to share the stage with many greats like Master P, Kindred The Family Soul, Wale, Governor Tom Wolf, Senator Bob Casey, Sonia Sanchez, Angela Yee, and many more.Youll learn about: How to collaborate to grow your brand How to do partnership outreach How to use storytelling as a marketing strategy How to simplify your messaging Key takeaways: Storytelling is messaging Collaboration is an excellent marketing strategy All brands have a story to tell Simplify your message Guest contact: @DPJeter on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.To my listeners, I hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself, so if you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with others.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network and follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.Join me next Friday for another episode.

How I Show Up as Woman in a Male Dominated Industry with Vava Angwenyi S6 Ep.8How much do you know about your coffee before it comes out of your Keurig coffee machine or handed to you by the barista at your favorite coffee shop?We hardly have any stories told by the coffee producer or the person living in that country and experiencing all the emotions that go with working in the coffee industry, from the growing of the coffee, processing and selling it. This story has always been from the point of view of the buyer, the roaster, the trader - the foreigner looking in and excited about the new adventure of experiencing the place and its people. Hardly do we have stories especially from this continent that clearly touch on the perception of this continent and the real story of doing business in these environments.That was an excerpt from the Coffee Milk Blood by todays guest, Vava Angwenyi. In 2009, Vava started Vava Coffee Limited a social enterprise that exports, roasts and consults on coffee value chains. Her main aim is to contribute to better future prospects for coffee communities and the industry as a whole. The company ensures sustainable livelihoods for the people and communities in which it works. Vava is also the co-founder and director of business development & fundraising at GENTE DEL FUTURO (People of the Future). GDF is an organization born out of a partnership between African Plantations Kilimanjaro and Vava Coffee Ltd. Gente Del Futuros focus is to amplify the voices of youth by creating economic empowerment, choices and sustainability for the coffee industry.In this episode youll learn: How to navigate as a woman in a male-dominated industry How to be a changemaker as a female entrepreneur challenging the status quo In the coffee industry.Key Takeaways Women (especially Black women) deal with unreasonable judgements about their appearance and their ability, especially when they are playing in a male-dominated space; While the entrepreneurship journey is challenging for many, adding layers of race and gender discrimination make the journey for Black women (especially Black African women) even more challenging; Make sure you understand what types of funding are best for you and your business structure; and Entrepreneurs should do better vetting of VCs and other funders. Due diligence is a two-way street. Guest Info:Learn about Vava here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vavaj/Learn more about Vava Coffee here: https://www.vavacoffeeinc.com/Learn more about GENTE DEL FUTURO here:https://www.gente-delfuturo.com/Learn about Coffee Milk Blood here: https://www.coffeemilkblood.com/What did you learn or like most about this episode? Let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with three friends. Sharing is caring so be generous. Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.Join me next Friday for another episode.

How to Win Business Grants with the Grant Lady Danita Doleman S6 Ep. 7My guest is known as the Grant Lady. If you want to learn how to win grants for your business or nonprofit, break out your notebook and pen, tablet, or the notes app on your phone, sit in a quiet place and listen. Oh, and you can write a review and thank me later!Danita C. Doleman has over 20 years of business experience and grants consulting. Recognizing the struggle that business owners face when it comes to applying for grants she created Grants4Biz to make that part of life simpler. Lets face it: running a small business isnt easy. Throughout her career, shes helped many nonprofit organizations, commercial organizations, and small business owners connect with grant opportunities.In this episode youll learn: The first 5 steps to getting grant money for your business or organization The different types of grants that exist The 3 most important things business owners should know about grants The 5 most important things nonprofits should know about grants The most common misconceptions about grants; and The 5 most important things to do to successfully win grants for a business or nonprofit. Key Takeaways:Common misconceptions grantseekers have about grants That they are eligible for everything Grants are easy to get Key things to know about grants: Some grants have lengthy reporting requirements, especially for government grants) Grants can be audited so accurate good records Grants can be terminated or revoked if you dont comply with the conditions of use and grant awardees can be asked to return grant funds or assets purchased with grant funds Grant awardees might be asked to return cash on hand or unspent funds at the closeout of grant 3 Things to consider below applying for grants: Do you meet the eligibility criteria, are you qualified to apply for that grant? Will you be able to convince the grant reviewer that you are a capable and good candidate to receive the grant award? Are you willing to commit to the time some grant applications take to prepare? 5 things successful applicants do to win grants: Read grant eligibility criteria to ensure that you qualify to apply for the grant Never submit a grant application the date its due. Prepare and submit your grant application ahead of the deadline if possible Establish strong quality control for your final submission to ensure you submit an application that is complete and compelling Craft a compelling story not just of need but of the intended outcomes that money will have on your ability to serve your customers Write a detailed budget narrative Guest Info:Business IG: @grants4bizEmail: dcoleman@seapartners.comWebsite: grants4biz.comTo my listeners, I hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with 3 friends.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.Join me next Friday for another episode.

6 Characteristics of a Valued Business with Kevin Valley S6 Ep. 6How do you know if you are building a business that is valued or investible? Keep listening to learn the 6 criteria for building a valuable business from Kevin Valley, host of The Value podcast who is helping entrepreneurs structure and grow successful businesses that can attract investment.Kevin Valley is incredibly passionate about the development of entrepreneurs building valuable businesses. He is a consultant who specializes in helping businesses demonstrate their value and raise capital. Defensibility is everything as Kevin often states that unless a valuation can withstand intense scrutiny - it is just a number As a qualified Chartered Business Valuator who has spent over 13 years evaluating companies for debt and equity investment, Kevin understands how to add value by bringing a wealth of experience, tenacity, and unbiased insight to business owners and investors alike. Kevin is the Founder of Become Investible, a Partner at Aspire Fund Management, and Host of The Value Podcast.In this episode youll learn:What it means to structure and lead a valuable business.The fundamental concepts of value are based on growth and risk.The Six Characteristics of a Valued Business:V- visionary leadership - can your business survive without you?A- active cash flows - are you cashflow positive?L- long-term mindset- a company with a plan is worth more than a company without one.U- useful to investors - are you ready to pitch investors?E- efficient operations - the backbone of your businessD- defensible competitive advantage - what sets your business apart?A valued business framework download.4 Thing to Do Before Courting Investors, take time to: get a plan together, make sure you are hiring the right people, building a great culture, and document your procedures so that your business is not solely reliant on you. If you cant take a vacation from your business then you dont own a business, you own a job. Fill out the valued scorecard here: https://businessvalue.scoreapp.com/. Reach out to Kevin to help you structure a valued business.Learn more about Kevin here:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinvalley/ and https://kevinvalue.com/The Value Podcast: https://thevalue.show/Link to How to Raise Entrepreneurial Kids mentioned in the episode.To my listeners, I hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with three friends. Sharing is caring so be generous.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.Join me next Friday for another episode.

5 Ways to Improve Your PR and Business Communication with Phoenix Jackson S6 Ep. 5Do you need some results-based tips and strategies to help you level up your PR and business communication? Stick around! By the end of this episode, you will learn a few strategies that you can implement right away.My guest is Phoenix Jackson. Phoenix is the Founder of Phoenix Affect, a 17-year-old global public relations, communications, and business development firm. She has worked with many small business owners, non-profits, professional athletes, entertainers, authors, speakers, politicians, NGOs, government entities, and more, helping them to manifest their desired outcomes in business.In this episode youll learn: What business owners should know about business communication and how to do it effectively The differences between personal PR and business communication When you should hire a PR firm as a business owner; and 5 useful PR 101 tips that you can implement right away Key Takeaways: PR starts within Collaboration and partnerships are major marketing strategies for businesses Many business owners arent taking advantage of adjacent media You can do PR on a DIY budget and this episode tells you how! PR University discount code: WTF25 to receive a 25% discount to PR University! Dont miss out!Learn more about Phoenix here: phoenixjackson.comLinkedin:linkedin.com/in/phoenix-jackson-0725445Learn more about Phoenix Affect here: phoenixaffect.comBooking: phx@phoenixaffect.comTwitter: phoenixkjacksonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/phoenix_jackson_/To my listeners, I hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with 3 friends.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.Join me next Friday for another episode

I Am the Big Deal: Fundraising and Entrepreneurship Lesson Learned with Kadion Preston S6 Ep. 4If you are an immigrant like me, do you ever close your eyes and dream of some of your favorite foods from your home country? Caribbshopper turned that dream into a reality for people in the Caribbean diaspora when it launched in 2021. Listen to this episode to hear the Caribshopper founders fundraising and entrepreneurship journey and what motivated him to start Caribshopper. Oh, and check out the discount code below to get a 23% off of your next cart of purchases from Caribshopper.In this episode I speak with the CEO and Co-Founder of Caribshopper, Kadion Preston. Caribshopper is the largest e-commerce marketplace for authentic Caribbean-made products, where Caribbean diaspora communities in North America can connect with a taste of home.Since its launch in January 2021, Caribshopper has shipped over 28,795 products to 48 states in the US, as well as Quebec and Ontario in Canada. The platform proudly features over 7000 SKUs from 650+ brands representing both Jamaica and Trinidad with more countries to be added soon.In this episode youll learn: Why Kadion and his brother started Caribshopper How he went from idea to launch The 3 most important lessons hes learned during his fundraising and entrepreneurship journey ; and How he plans to adjust his fundraising strategy based on what hes learned so far and the current funding climate. Lessons Learned From Kadions Fundraising Journey The deal is never done until the money is in your account! I was fundraising incorrectly. It started with me changing my mindset to understand that I have something that you [the investor] want. It's not the other way around and I think every entrepreneur really needs to understand that. You entrepreneurs are the big deal with the idea that is going to make investors money. You are not asking for funds, you are presenting investors with an opportunity for your company to make them money. Use this code WTF23 to get a 23% discount on your order. Act now! The discount is only good the month this episode airs.Learn more about Kadion here:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kadion-preston-88777aa/Twitter: https://twitter.com/kadion_preston?lang=enLearn more about Caribshopper here: https://caribshopper.com/To my listeners, I hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself. If you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with others.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.Join me next Friday for another episode.

5 Things Women of Color Should Do to Improve Their Access to Capital with Adeola Adejobi S6 Ep. 3As women, we know its true. Women more broadly, women of color in particular and Black women especially have less access to capital and face compounded intersectional challenges in business.. One of the many hurdles is capital access for women of color and Black women in particular. My guest started the Women of Color and Capital Conference, one of the largest convenings of women of color in the US to address access to business capital, finance, and growing wealth for women of color.My guest is Adeola Adejobi, the Founder and CEO of the Avant-Garde Network (AGN), a leading social impact company that creates social and economic impact through a collaborative ecosystem of industry professionals, business leaders, and entrepreneurs. Through AGN she created the Women of Color and Capital Conference, the only conference of its kind where diverse women entrepreneurs & professionals come together to learn about money, finance, capital, and investing from a 360-degree lens.In this episode youll learn: The major access barriers to capital for women of color What must happen to reduce the barriers to capital for women of color 5 things women of color can do to improve their access to capital; and Key takeaways: Networking is investing in a relationship: Networking is establishing genuine connections over time. People often think that networking is about meeting people and thinking about what you can get from them. Networking is not that! Networking is investing in a relationship so that if and when over time if you need something you have a pool of people that you can call on as a resource to be able to do some of the things you want to do or get the help that you need to get. Women of color grow slower: Due to access barriers WOC grow slower because they spend many productive hours doing all the things themselves that they could outsource to increase productivity and profit. But, due to lack of capital, they are stuck doing all of the work in their business, some of which could be best done by others. Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) are good capital sources for early-stage women of color in lieu of big banks. CDFIs have a mission and mandate to CDFIs are mission-driven financial institutions that create economic opportunity for individuals and small businesses. Women of Color Must Increase Their Prices: WOC often charge too little, which impedes profitability, and in turn makes it difficult to get a bank loan or attract angel investors in the early stages. The hardest task is to get to the 6-figure mark for women of color and then to scale to a million. Over 90% of Black women work their day job while running a business. That means that in addition to lack of financial capital they also lack time and currency as well. 5 key things that women of color can do to improve their access to capital: Figure out how you can make more money! Have your financial house in order Work on your pitch Lean in on your community - build your personal board Just keep going! Do the following to ensure your business is structured for growth: Have your financial house in order Do you tax return and maintain proper bookkeeping Document your business mission statement Have a business plan with projections Generate revenue (this is key!) Learn more about Women of Color and Capital here: https://www.womenofcolorandcapital.com/Learn more about Avant-Garde Network here: https://www.avantgnetwork.com/Learn about Adeola here: http://www.adeolaadejobi.com/about-1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aadejobiesq/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adeolaadejobi/To my listeners, I hope you enjoyed this episode. I like to say dont keep good content to yourself so if you enjoyed this episode, let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with others.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.Join me next Friday for another episode.

Growing from Zero to One with Drew Glover S6 Ep. 2If you are struggling to find the right marketing strategy for your business or with figuring out which are the right hires to get your company to the next stage, keep listening. My guest will ube discussing what makes a hstrong go-to-market strategy and how to build a team from zero to one and beyond.Drew Glover is a founding Partner of Fiat Growth and a General Partner at Fiat Ventures. He is no stranger to the world of growth, technology, and marketing. From his time at Steady where he led marketplace development and growth to Namely, Fjord, and Portal A, he navigated the ins and outs of Go-to-Market strategies and user acquisition.In this episode we discussed: What makes a strong go-to-market strategy - ensure that you have done deep discovery How to build a business from zero to one - who are the people to have on the bus to go from zero to one vs the people you need at the growth phase How to scale a team - when to hire generalists vs specialists Venture capital investing - what Drew looks for in founders he invests in Starting a venture fund - ways in which fundraising for a venture fund is similar to fundraising for a company and ways its different. Key takeaways: Thirty (30%) percent of venture dollars typically go directly to marketing for a startup. The companies that have a much higher likelihood of failing are the ones that aren't able to distribute that money in efficient ways. What marketing is at its heart is testing and iterating, preferably cheaply to figure out what works and doesn't work. Deep discovery and clarity about who your customers are is key to successfully marketing to them. Business growth is not just hiring, it's hiring the right people at the right time. Founders must ensure they understand if the people they are hiring are 0 to 1 people or are they 1 to 10 people. 0 to 1 vs 1 to 10: 0 to 1 is individuals who are more generalist versus specialist. They're able to do a lot of things. You need folks that can wear a lot of different hats that don't need a ton of guidance. As you start to grow you need very specific specialists for different parts of your business, these are your 1 to 10 people. Venture capital is a relationship business. Its a business of returns. Reach out to Drew on Linkedin with legitimate (emphasis on legitimate) questions because he does respond, which is not always the case on LinkedIn, which is the platform where he is most active. Guest Info:Learn more about Drew:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drewbailerglover/Twitter: GloveJonesLearn more about Fiat Growth here: https://www.fiatgrowth.com/Learn more about Fiat Ventures here: https://www.fiat.vc/What did you learn or like most about this episode? Let me know by rating, reviewing, and sharing this episode with three friends. Sharing is caring so be generous.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.Join me next Friday for another episode.

Hey WTF? Podcast listeners! If you are new here, welcome and if you have been rocking with me for a while, well, its been too long since I did a solo episode, so, here we are!I have been at this podcast for a little while now and I am taking stock of what I can do better to serve your needs as listeners. Please complete this survey to let me know how I can improve the show and better serve your needs as listeners.From now on you can expect at least one solo episode from me per season to kick-off the season and to inject more of me into the show. Also, I love getting feedback from those of you who listen and share your feedback. That means a lot to me so please keep sharing, I love reading them!.In this episode I talk about whats going on with me and do a recap of what you can expect from the season. If you like this way of kicking-off a season, email me and let me know. Lets be more social and build community.I am also trying to do a better job with social media and promoting the podcast, which is probably the most important part of having a podcast after producing the podcast. Unfortunately, I havent been so good at that part. I kept telling myself that social media isnt my thing and I much prefer consuming other peoples content than creating content to feed it.But, guess what? I think I have to change that mindset and figure out how to grow this podcast and this community. I hope you will help me do that by following the show pages on Instagram and LinkedIn and engaging with the content as well as sharing your favorite episodes with friends or colleagues who could benefit from the conversations that you benefit the most from.If you havent reviewed the podcast on Apple Podcast (my preferred platform because I can see the reviews there) or your preferred platform is quite fine as well please do so using this link: https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Here are some instructions for writing a review on Apple Podcasts.Subscribe to the podcast at its home on the ALIVE Podcast Network, here https://wheres-the-funding.onpodium.com/ and here https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcast. Follow the podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and follow me, your host Michelle J. McKenzie and the show page on LinkedIn.Join me next Friday for another episode.

How Foundation and Government Grants Stifle Social Innovation with Linc Kroeger S5 Ep.12 Linc Kroeger is the President of Knight Moves, a limiting profit company creating the next generation of elite technology professionals through extensive trainingin technology disciplines, with an intentional focus on including Native Americans,and rural, and urban underserved communities. His passion for fighting social inequality led him to leverage his 35 years of enterprise technology experience to create a creative solution to help level the playing field while also delivering technology solutions for the worlds most important causes.In this episode we discussed: The problem Knight Moves is solving in rural and marginalized communities How digital innovation can solve social problems Bridging the digital divide; and Advancing racial and place equity through digital access; and How Foundation and Government funding can stifle social innovation Learn more about Knight Moves here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlvmZ3hgqd8To my listeners, I hope you enjoyed this episode. I always say you shouldnt keep good content to yourself so if you liked it, leave a rating and review and share this episode with other people who need to hear it. Click here to review: https://kite.link/where-E2-80-99s-the-funding-3FSubscribe to the podcast on the ALIVE Podcast Network: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/wtf/ to get access to unreleased bonus content.Keep tuning in on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more and follow or subscribe to the show to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and on LinkedIn at WHERE'S THE FUNDING? PODCAST.

Beauty Entrepreneurs Shares How She Caught Beypnces Attention + How She Wins Grants to Fund Her Business with Ezinne Iroanya S5 Ep. 11Ezinne Iroanya is the CEO of SKNMUSE, a premium beauty brand championing Inclusivity and Sustainability in luxury. She comes with over a decade of experience working for brands like Lancome, and Dior. For her, beauty is culture and she believes everyone, especially black women, deserves to have an authentic representation of beauty. Her brand, SKNMUSE, has been featured by Beyonce, Issa Rae, Essence, and Vogue, rated top 10 by ELLE USA, and many more. She is a recent Glossier and Cantu Grant winner and has raised over $200,000.00 in national grants. In this episode we discussed: Why she started SKNMUSE and the problem that she is solving Her goal is to show others how to use beauty as a means of financial empowerment. How her branding got her products got featured by top celebrities and magazines Her fundraising journey, including bootstrapping, grant funds, and other forms of funding Her top 5 fundraising strategies Her top 5 pieces of advice for Black female startup founders in the beauty industry about raising capital and growing a successful business To my listeners, I hope you enjoyed this episode. I always say you shouldnt keep good content to yourself so if you liked it, leave a rating and review and share this episode with other people who need to hear it. Click here to review: https://kite.link/where-E2-80-99s-the-funding-3FEzinne was kind enough to share a discount link "WTF10" exclusively for WTF? Podcast listeners at https://sknmuse.com/. Dont say I dont look out for you. Enjoy!Subscribe to the podcast on the ALIVE Podcast Network: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/wtf/ to get access to unreleased bonus content.Keep tuning in on your favorite podcast streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Spotify, and more and follow or subscribe to the show to get notified when new episodes drop.To be a guest or sponsor the podcast, email whereisthefunding@gmail.com.Follow the podcast on Instagram at whereisthefunding_podcast and on LinkedIn at WHERE'S THE FUNDING? PODCAST.WTF10TYPE AND METHOD Amount off order Code DETAILS Available on online sales channels and point of Sale 10% off entire order Applies to one time purchases No minimum purchase requirement All customers One use per customer Can't combine with other discounts Active from Sep 2 to Dec 18

What you Need to Know About Black Philanthropy and How to Benefit From It with Dr. Jackie Copeland S5 Ep. 10Dr. Jackie Bouvier Copeland has been laying tracks for the narrative on Black Philanthropy for over 20 years. With the support of Reunity, formerly the Pan-African Women's Philanthropy Network, Black Philanthropy Month launched in 2001 with its first official global summit to commemorate the United Nations Year and Decade of People of African Descent. Over 30 diverse women from multiple countries throughout the global Black Diaspora worked with Dr. Copeland to co-organize BPM Summits and public awareness campaigns over its 20-year history.In this episode youll learn: How BPM is supporting Black businesses and social enterprises How you can benefit from Black Philanthropy Misconceptions about Black Philanthropy How BPM is helping corporations and corporate foundations achieve more equitable funding outcomes ane more! See More Information About BPM!Black Philanthropy Month (blackphilanthropymonth.com) is documenting and celebrating Black-led funding, while advancing fair access to private capital (philanthropy and business investment) for Black nonprofit and business founders worldwide, inclusive of all Black identities and genders everywhere. https://thewisefund.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/BPM-Community-Participation-Guide.pdf?utm_campaign=BPM+2022The Women Invested to Save Earth Fund (thewisefund.org)WISE is a global funding equity enterprise supporting diverse founders with solutions to pressing challenges and is the backbone organization for Black Philanthropy Month. See bit.ly/WISEleaders and bit.ly/WISEPIF for more and become a donor or investor today. Note that new grants or loans are on hold until 2023 as we raise more funding. To help fund WISE and Black Philanthropy Month contact info@theWISEfund.org with questions or to join our mailing list for future events and funding equity initiatives. Email: give@theWISEfund.org Phone: (602) 759-0105 Support at bit.ly/WISEgive .The Women Invested to Save Earth Fund theWISEfund.org Black Philanthropy Month: blackphilanthropymonth.com Reunity: The Global Black WomensFunders Network reunity.net Global Black Funding Equity Initiative (bit.ly/BPMPledge) 2022 Black Philanthropy Month Summit Series Replays (bit.ly/FundBlackSummit2022) Just register or login and spread the word. Black Philanthropy Month Proclamation Template To my listeners, I hope you enjoyed this episode. Dont keep good content to yourself so if you liked it, leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or share this episode with others who need to hear it. Click here to listen and review: https://bit.ly/wheresthefundingpodcastSubscribe to the ALIVE Podcast Network podcast: https://alivepodcastnetwork.com/wtf/.Keep tuning in on your favorite podcast streaming