Podcasts about microenterprise

It was such a joy to speak with my guest, Bonnie Kelso.  A graduate of Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), she's  been working in the arts her whole life and it seems to fit her perfectly.  As an illustrator of kid's books, she loves sharing her adventures in the outdoors from around the world with her readers. Her books are fun, informational and beautiful to look at. Bonnie was given some sound advice about  becoming an author and says "my specialty is making complex information more accessible."  Advice she was given when first starting out was "to write about something that you really care about and  know about.""Nudi Gill: Poison Powerhouse of the Sea" was released in 2023 and she loves teaching kids about Nudibranch-(sea slugs. pronounced noo-dee brink). Coming in 2024 are two more books, "Wonder of the Woods" and  "Quail Trail."Sharon, Bonnie's mom, had her head in a book from a young age. She loved her relationship with the characters and it became her safe and happy place.  Sharon worked hard in high school  wanting to get  a scholarship so she could continue on to college. She became an english teacher and eventually worked her way up from bookkeeper to  Exec Director of a Non Profit.  Sharon worked at "United Community Ministries and Micro Enterprise for twenty plus years.After retirement, Sharon still had more dreams and aspirations to pursue. What she was most moved by was making people laugh. Her daughters stepped in and encouraged her to pursue her stand-up comedy dreams.  They set up a Youtube page, "Sharon Kelso Comedy Diva." https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=sharon+kelso+comedy+divaIt's never too late to fulfill your dreams and Sharon Kelso is a perfect example of all the surprises life hands us, if we're willing to let go of our insecurities and take that risk! Both Bonnie had her mom practice Reiki.KIDS BOOKS:Nudi Gill: Poison Powerhouse of the Sea, Gnome Road Publishing, ©2023In a Cave, Written by Heather Ferranti Kinser, Gnome Road Publishing, ©2023Sea Smiles, Gnome Road Publishing, ©2024Wonder of the Woods, The Little Press, ©2024Quail Trail, Muddy Boots, ©2024 Wonder of the Woods, The Little Press, ©2024Quail Trail, Muddy Boots, ©2024Video- Facts: The Nudibranchhttps://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=580b38a03aa9e71a&q=nudibranch&tbm=vid&source=lnms&prmd=ivsnmbtz&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjfnKSujPqFAxVJm4kEHbMwBcUQ0pQJegQIDBAB&biw=1344&bih=788&dpr=2#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:fa81f280,vid:yE4yDALUVV4,st:0YOUTUBE LINK PASEO VERDE LIBRARY, NEVADA- MURAL ART TIME LAPSE:https://bonniekelso.com/murals-2/SOCIALS:IG: https://www.instagram.com/bonnie.kelso/    X: https://twitter.com/bonniekelsoFB: https://www.facebook.com/bonnie.kelsoBONNIE'S WEBSITE: https://bonniekelso.com/United Community Ministries: https://unitedcommunityministries.org/contact/    "Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers and the roles they play in our lives. And my guests answer the question, 'are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother'? You'll be amazed at what the responses are."Should Have Listened To My Mother" would not be possible without the generosity, sincerity and insight from my guests. In getting ready to launch my podcast, so many were willing to give their time and share their personal relationships with their mother.Some of my guests include Baritone Singer Christopheren Nomura, Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist Tim Wacker, Activist Kim Miller, Freighter Sea Captain Terry Viscount, Film Production Manager Peg Robinson, Professor of Writing Montclair State University Dr. Bridget Brown, Tammy Steckler, attorney and family advocate @CUNY Law; NYC First Responder/NYC Firefighter Mark Heingartner, Child and Adult Special Needs Activist, Maryellen Valyo Cole and Roger Evens, Property Manager in New Jersey and so many more talented and insightful women and men.I've worked in the broadcasting industry for over four decades. I've interviewed so many fascinating people including musicians, celebrities, authors, activists, entrepreneurs, politicians and more.A big thank you goes to Ricky Soto, NYC based Graphic Designer, who created my logo for "Should Have Listened To My Mother".Check out my website for more background information: https://www.jackietantillo.com/Or more demos of what's to come at https://soundcloud.com/jackie-tantilloFind audio versions of the podcast here: https://shltmm.simplecast.com/Spotify Link: https://open.spotify.com/show/60j14qCcks4AP3JUrWrc2MLink to website and show notes: https://shltmm.simplecast.com/ Spotify Link: https://open.spotify.com/show/60j14qCcks4AP3JUrWrc2M Apple Podcasts Facebook:Should have listened to my motherJackie TantilloInstagram:Should have listened to my motherJackietantillo7LinkedIn:Jackie TantilloYOUTUBE:Should have listened to my mother

Calling all dog moms and dads. Mark your calendar now to get in on the last couple of Bark Time events that @DPRPlayMore will be hosting for the summer. These free events will be held on August 19 and August 26. Here's something you may not have known about – it's National Backflow Prevention Day. Find out what Backflow Preventers are and how they play a crucial role in supplying clean and safe water all over the world. Are you interested in going solar at home or work? If so, Solarize the Triangle '23 may be able to help you lower the cost. Find out how and why you need to take action soon if you're interested. Nine local business owners are now graduates of the Momentum 360: Financial Academy for Microenterprise. Find out how the program is helping microbusinesses create and organize their financial recordkeeping systems. Durham's new Fire and EMS Station Number 18 is ready to officially open, and you'll want to take part in the celebration. We share what makes this station so special and how you can see it firsthand.

In this episode we look at Bright Hope World's Microloans and Microenterprise partnerships. In the first half of the podcast, we look at the nature of good microloans schemes and the four big factors that help microloans programmes succeed. We also chat about table banking - an interesting alternative to microloans programmes. In the second half of the podcast, we consider how COVID has impacted microloans and microenterprise, and the benefits, dangers and challenges in pursuing business, including for those in ministry. This includes a discussion on bivocationalism which is a bit controversial! To find out more about our work, visit the Bright Hope World partnership page at https://www.brighthopeworld.com/partnerships.asp. Send comments and feedback to podcast@brighthopeworld.com

Microenterprises certainly struggled to survive the Covid-19 pandemic, and now in the economic recovery phase- increase in interest from microenterprises that want financing, has to be balanced with finding issuers (borrowers) with a good credit rating.

Episode 6 of The Med Spa Success Strategies Podcast Welcome to episode 6 of the Med Spa Success Strategies Podcast, presented by Ricky Shockley of ⁠⁠Med Spa Magic Marketing⁠⁠. On this episode, we're joined by Scott Carson, Founder of Founder & CEO of MRP (https://mrp.io/) If you're ready to implement more efficient & effective marketing strategies for your practice, book your FREE strategy session & marketing plan: ⁠⁠https://go.medspamagicmarketing.com/schedule⁠⁠ About Scott Carson Scott Carson has more than 30 years of Healthcare Marketing, BD, Sales and Management experience. He was part of the team that built the eBay Healthcare Marketplace structure and strategy and is a nationally recognized leader and speaker in driving sales through Internet Transactional Platforms. He founded US Medical, Inc., the first Internet distributor of new and pre-owned capital medical equipment to the healthcare industry. Started in his basement, US Medical emerged 5 years later as a member of the Inc. 500. Scott was named a finalist 2X in the Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year Award competition. In addition, 2X was named among the Inc. 500's fastest growing companies. He is a Micro Enterprise of the Year recipient. Learn about MRP at https://mrp.io/

Morley Ivers is the Co-Founder & CEO of Cookin, a Toronto-based food delivery marketplace enabling a new crop of  creators to sell hot food from their homes or commissary kitchens. In this episode, we'll talk about the regulatory hurdles facing Cookin and similar platforms, how Cookin is developing its own chef certification program, and the behavioral shift in how consumers will order food over the next five to ten years. Watch on YouTube Join the HNGRY newsletter

Our city lakes are open for the season! Little River Lake and Lake Michie are open from 6:30am to 6pm on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays through November 6. If you're looking for a fun way to spend the day with your dog, our Canine Field Day is just the event for you. It will be held on Saturday, April 29 from 10am until 2pm at Rock Quarry Park. Our city's administration now knows what guidelines to follow as it develops the proposed budget for 2023-2024.The Durham Arts Council will be using $1 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds to help reverse the pandemic's negative impact on our local arts and cultural sector. Six local business owners are at least a little more financially savvy than they were four weeks ago. That's because they just graduated from the Momentum 360: Financial Academy for Microenterprise.

Regina Krebs is a recognized expert on The Nebraska Advantage Microenterprise Tax Credit. She not only helps business owners and their accountants / advisors qualify for and obtain this Tax Credit, but has been an advocate, expert witness in the Unicameral, and extensive speaker on the maintenance and expansion of this small business tax credit.A Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a digital media and commercial video production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network and learn more about our other services today on HurrdatMedia.com.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There is help out there for whatever your needs are. Today I'm joined by Carolina Martinez, the CEO of CAMEO, an association for micro enterprise opportunity, where I currently serve on the board of directors! Back in 1994, Carolina saw a lack in services and tools for micro enterprises to grow and thrive. Today, as a statewide network for business partners, CAMEO provides loans/credit, technical assistance, business management training, and open channels of communication for people to share and develop ideas. She'll help us figure out the best practices for operating and growing an enterprise as well as some of the most foolproof ways to overcome challenges. Tune in to see how we can leverage businesses owners' strengths and come together as a community in order to provide more solutions for EVERYONE!  More from Carolina Martinez:  Visit cameonetwork.org Email: cameo@CAMEOnetwork.org  Facebook & Twitter: @CAMEOnetwork  LinkedIn: @CAMEO  Finding Carolina Martinez: LinkedIn: @Carolina Martinez Twitter: @DCaroMartinez   More From Jesse & Small Business Front:  Visit: https://www.smallbusinessfront.com/ LinkedIn: Small Business Front LinkedIn: Jesse Torres, Founder-SBF Instagram: @smallbizfront Twitter & Facebook: @SmallBizFront    Join our community of Frontliners! and get the most up-to-date resources and information for YOUR small business. *Thank you for listening and please share the show or an episode you love with your favorite small business! We believe that when you succeed we all succeed, so let's share the knowledge and resources!  

Think Big, Go Micro! With Chloe Reid and Jodie ReidMost people experience a micro-business when they are young. They might look after a friend's pet or mow a neighbour's lawn and receive some money or other item of value in return. Such micro-businesses teach young people valuable lessons about work, money, saving, and contribution. Unfortunately, young people with disability often miss out on enjoying such experiences of work. When COVID-19 changed Chloe's plans for employment, Chloe and her family decided to think big and try a microenterprise. In this presentation, Chloe and her mother, Jodie will outline how they identified Chloe's skills and interests utilised their personal networks and developed a successful microenterprise. IntroductionThis session was introduced by Gus Reichelt Hi, my name is Gus. I am here to introduce Chloe and Jodie Reid. Chloe is 21 years old. She lives in Canberra. Chloe really likes fashion and design. She is great at sewing. Chloe uses this interest and skill in her own micro business.  Jodie Reid is Chloe's mum. She thinks inclusion is very important. She believes that everyone has a talent that can lead to meaningful roles.  Today we will hear how Chloe started her own business by following her interest and talent in fashion. I hope you enjoy listening to Chloe's story.   Meet Chloe ReidChloe Reid is a 21-year-old Canberra local with a strong interest in fashion and design. With her mum Jodie's support, she established a small business called Mrs Clompys Closet. A conversation with one of Jodie's work colleagues led to an order of scrunchies for a local girls' soccer team. Suddenly, Chloe found herself with an exciting niche! Chloe has recently launched her virtual shop on Etsy. She now sells hair scrunchies and beautiful lavender pillows to customers across Australia. Mrs Clompys Closet can be found on Etsy, Instagram and Facebook. Meet Jodie ReidJodie Reid is a passionate and enthusiastic parent who loves talking about inclusion with anyone who wants to listen (and occasionally with some who don't!). She believes that everybody has “their thing”- a talent, a passion, a skill – of value to contribute to those around them. In her professional life, Jodie has worked in a range of government policy and program areas. She enjoys working collaboratively and looking for simple, creative solutions to complex problems. Just because no one has done it that way before doesn't mean it can't be done. Jodie and her husband have two children, 15 and 21. Their daughter attended her local schools, from preschool to secondary college, and completed Year 12 in 2018. With Jodie's help, she then followed her interest in fashion and sewing and runs a successful small enterprise in Canberra. Resources mentioned in Chloe and Jodie's presentationhttps://imaginemore.org.au/projects-and-grants/school-to-work/ (School to Work Project) This is a three-year project funded by the Department of Social Services. It will run until June 2023. The project hopes to see the trend reversed on poor disability employment figures. When work goals are set early in a child's high school years, there are many potential benefits https://www.barefootinvestor.com/ (The Barefoot Investor ) Jodie read Scott Pape's book and found ideas for typical work opportunities for young people. Vision https://imaginemore.org.au/resources/your-vision/ (Resources about vision on the Imagine More website) Employment and Microenterprise https://imaginemore.org.au/resources/employment-and-microenterprise/ (Resources about employment and microenterprise on the Imagine More website) Contact detailshttps://www.etsy.com/shop/MrsClompysCloset (Mrs Clompy's Closet on Etsy) https://www.facebook.com/mrsclompyscloset/ (Mrs Clompy's Closet on Facebook) https://www.instagram.com/mrs_clompys_closet/ (Mrs Clompy's Closet on Instagram) Email mrsclompyscloset@gmail.com

When Tom was preparing to leave school, and no one was offering any suitable post-school work options, his parents knew they had to come up with the answer. Skip forward 5 years, and Tom is happily and successfully running his own lawn maintenance business with approximately 50 regular clients. Ground Control by Major Tom came into being because his family chose to focus on Tom's interests and skills, and had a goal that Tom would have a valued role in the community. Tom's Circle of Support, which was established at the same time as his business, still meets regularly. The Circle's roles are to support Tom in his decision making to provide new social and recreational opportunities and to hold and protect his vision of a good life. Helen, Tom's mum, will describe the pathway from its beginnings, where she dreamed of a Microenterprise for Tom, to today, where the dream is a reality. In her presentation, Helen will discuss their use of formal (paid) and informal supports share strategies for sustainability, business growth, skill development and independence provide tips on “thinking typical”. Outside-the-box-thinkers will appreciate the ideas, tactics, and strategies that abound in Tom's story. IntroductionThis session was introduced by Gus Reichelt Hi, I am Gus. I am here to tell you about Tom Neale and Helen Neale. Tom is a young man who is nearly 24 years old. He has his own lawn mowing business. Tom likes to travel, go to the pub, and hang out with friends. He is a valued and busy community member.  Helen Neale is Tom's mum. Helen works for “Community Living Project” in South Australia. Today Helen will tell us how Tom's business started and grew.  I hope you enjoy listening to Tom's story.  Meet Tom NealeTom is nearly 24, a hard worker who has had his microenterprise “Ground Control by Major Tom” for almost five years. He is a good friend to many and loves to help out where he can, whether raising funds and awareness for the homeless or being a good neighbour. Tom has a vision for a good and typical life- he loves to travel, go to the pub, hang out with friends, and one day wants a modern house of his own. Tom has Autism, but this doesn't define him. Meet Helen NealeHelen is Tom's mum as well as his current social secretary! She has always had high expectations for Tom and hasn't let the narrow mindedness of others change his life trajectory. Helen now works for Community Living Project in South Australia, an organisation driven by strong values. In this role, she shares information about microenterprise as a career option for people with disability. Resources related to Tom and Helen's presentationhttps://communitylivingproject.org.au/ (Community Living Project) (South Australia) - CLP provides a range of Core Support and Capacity Building services under the NDIS, including assistance to live in your own home and to participate in the community. Vision - https://imaginemore.org.au/resources/your-vision/ (Resources about vision on the Imagine More website) Employment and Microenterprise - https://imaginemore.org.au/resources/employment-and-microenterprise/ (Resources about employment and microenterprise on the Imagine More website) Getting the Support Right - https://imaginemore.org.au/resources/support/ (Resources about support on the Imagine More website) https://www.adelaidenow.com.au/news/south-australia/how-ground-control-by-major-tom-found-greener-pastures/news-story/4b34cd01f7988d2a309062d04b3e61f5 (How Ground Control by Major Tom found greener pastures, The Advertiser, April 20, 2019) - an article about Tom's business in the Adelaide Advertiser which includes the photo discussed in the podcast. Circles of Support - https://imaginemore.org.au/resources/circles-of-support/ (Resources about circles of support on the Imagine More website) Contact detailshttps://www.facebook.com/GroundControlbyMajorTom (Ground Control by Major Tom on Facebook)

Follow Tia and her team on their journey of discovering meaningful employment for Tia, driven by her interests. Tia's journey began with a desire to ensure her post-school life was not dominated by screens and solitude. She had an interest in fashion, design, and modelling. Her team explored this interest with her and tested creative methods of designing that didn't involve sketching or drawing. As a result of this process, Tia has created her successful fashion label, Funk N Soul 97, and has become a runway model. In this presentation, Tia walks us through every step of creating her Polynesian-inspired fashion ranges to show the unique ways she works. You will learn about the support Tia received along the way how Tia's business is structured to be sustainable, and how you can get started on your own Microenterprise journey. IntroductionThis session was introduced by Laura Esplin Hi, I am Laura Mary Esplin. I am a year 4 student, sister and gymnast. I am here to introduce Tia Semi, Gina Semi, and Samantha Powell.  Tia is a fashion designer and a model. She lives in Western Australia. She owns a fashion business.  Gina Semi is Tia's mother. She helps young people with disability reach their work goals.  Samantha Powell works for Valued Lives. She helped Tia to start her business.  I hope you enjoy listening to Tia, Gina, and Samantha. Meet Tia SemiTia Semi is the founder, owner and creative force behind Funk N' Soul 97. She is a proud Polynesian-Australian woman with disabilities, living in Western Australia. Her vision is to create, push boundaries and inspire. Tia aims to make connections with people, teach people to see her abilities, accept her for who she is, and teach them to accept differences. Tia designs and creates culturally inspired fashion ranges which have featured in local, interstate, and international runways. She also is a successful model. She has walked the runway in Australia and New Zealand. Tia has been invited to participate in New York Fashion Week's Flying Solo “Ones to Watch” event as a model and designer in 2022. Meet Gina SemiGina is a hairdresser by trade and has owned her salon for seven years. She could see that there were no suitable employment options for her daughter, Tia. Local service providers did not offer the support Tia needed to reach her goals. So Gina started building connections with other like-minded parents and working with Tia to discover what work would look like for her. When the Valued Lives Microenterprise Project was born, Gina worked there in a volunteer capacity. During this time, she started building Tia's business and supported others to do the same. Gina now works as an Innovative Employment Advisor and helps people to fulfil their employment goals. Meet Samantha PowellSamantha is a West Aussie with a lifetime of experience in disability. She has held volunteer roles and governance positions in the Not For Profit sector. She has qualifications in business, community services, advocacy and education support, including a Bachelors degree in Community Development. These have allowed her to put her unique perspective to use and to empower people with disability. Samantha is values-driven and approaches everything she does with authenticity. Her work at Valued Lives allows her to follow her passion for creating more employment opportunities for people with disability. In doing so, she hopes to change attitudes around disability employment. When not at work, Samantha is busy being a soccer Mum and cat lady. Contact detailshttps://funknsoul97.com/ (Funk N Soul 97's Website) https://www.facebook.com/funknsoul97/ (Funk N Soul 97 on Facebook) https://www.instagram.com/funknsoul97/ (Funk N Soul 97 on Instagram)

Show Summary Take that leap of faith to move forward with your business. Tuesday had a dream and a vision, and she realized that through partners, other resources, and relationships, she could make that dream come true, not only by helping her with her business but by providing careers and opportunities for so many. Tuesday started a program in Africa, which is an extraordinary contribution and a novel way to grow a business. There are young women in Africa who need opportunities and set up a business of their own and share in this new way of doing business in terms of technology. She thought that if she wants to grow her business, she should focus on women, so they trained women to do bookkeeping in the AJOY way. The idea came in November, and they graduated their first cohorts, 11 young women. They taught them more than just bookkeeping and created courses on US Tax, US Accounting, and US Business, in general. Website: https://ajoymgmt.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AjoyWorldwide/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AJOYMEDIA/videos Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ajoyworldwide/ Corporate Partner: People Process – https://peopleprocesses.com/

Patti Carpenter will talk color trends as she travels the world to places that inspire her. Actually, it is not the places that inspire her, it's the indigenous and how they work color in their artisan products from which we all can learn so much. Patti talks about what really keeps her going, her work in artisan development in countries around the world and her desire to bring more diversity to the world of design. From high Fashion to doing what truly matters to her, helping and supporting other creatives globally and bringing back the value of true artisan development. That is Patti. Patti is Principal of carpenter + company and an award- winning Designer in globally sourced home décor, accessories, fragrance and gifts, with experience in product design and development, merchandising and color + trend forecasting. As a Micro-Enterprise specialist with U.S. presidential recognition for domestic and international expertise in artisan development, small producer and entrepreneurial training and economic development  she has designed and sourced Private Label collections for Bloomingdales, Neiman Marcus, Crate & Barrel, The Phillips Collection, ABC Carpet and Home, Donna Karan Urban Zen and Ralph Lauren. She has worked in 57 countries. Patti is an expert in Color + Trend research and forecasting and consults with Pantone. She is the Global Trend Ambassador for Maison & Objet, Paris. She is an active board member of SERRV International-one of the founding organizations of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), BADG (Black Artists and Designer Guild), The High School of Fashion Industries and The Bienenstock Furniture Library, as well as the co-founder of the Kaleidoscope Project. Patti is also the recipient of the  Gift For Life Industry Achievement Award for 2021 and the Withit Industry Leadership Award for 2021 for the Kaleidoscope Project.

Sometimes in missions, helping can hurt. But have we taken that simple fact too far—as an excuse for inaction? Peter Greer, president of HOPE International, explains how missionaries can responsibly approach the problem of poverty and how churches and ministries can avoid mission drift. Peter Greer is the president and CEO of HOPE International, a global Christ-centered economic development organization serving throughout Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. As an advocate for the Church's role in missions and alleviating extreme poverty, Peter has co-authored over 10 books, including Mission Drift (selected as a 2015 Book Award Winner from Christianity Today), Rooting for Rivals (selected as a 2019 Leadership Resource of the Year in Outreach magazine), The Spiritual Danger of Doing Good (selected as one of the top 40 books on poverty by WORLD Magazine), Created to Flourish (which his mom reviewed with five stars and a smiley face emoji), and The Gift of Disillusionment. Subscribe now to never miss an episode when it drops. Support this podcast and impact God's mission. Want to ask a question or suggest a topic? Email us.

Name: Anthony TaylorCurrent title: Managing Partner & Chief StrategistCurrent organisation: SME Strategy ConsultingAnthony Taylor is the principal and lead strategic planning facilitator at SME Strategy. He holds a degree in business administration (BBA) as well as his Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) from the Project Management Institute. Anthony has an entrepreneurial background, with more than 10 years of experience running his own small businesses in various industries. In his book I Wish I Knew, he shares his best tips for being an entrepreneur.In 2016, Anthony was chosen as a Global Entrepreneurship Week Ambassador for Canada, and SME Strategy was awarded the Palme Blue for "Microenterprise of the Year" from the French Chamber of Commerce.Anthony speaks fluent French and loves soccer, basketball, and drinking scotch.Resources mentioned in this episode:Free Download of The Leadership Survival Guide (10 World-Class Leaders Reveal Their Secrets)The Leadership Conversations PodcastThe Jonno White Leadership PodcastThe Leadership Question of the Day PodcastClarity Website7 Questions on Leadership SeriesWe'd Love To Interview YOU In Our 7 Questions On Leadership Series!Subscribe To Clarity's Mailing ListJonno White's eBook Step Up or Step OutJonno White's Book Step Up or Step Out (Amazon)

What Makes Goodwill MicroEnterprise Institute a Good Neighbor...The Goodwill MicroEnterprise Institute assists aspiring entrepreneurs in developing a start-up plan for their business. During a six week course which meets two nights a week, participants hear from a variety of subject matter experts such as lawyers, accountants, bankers and marketing experts. Part of each evening is spent in small breakout groups with a business coach helping to develop the plans. A good start-up plan can be the difference between starting a business and sustaining a business.The program has been in existence for over 10 years and has 900 satisfied graduates who would recommend the course, with 470 of the graduates starting businesses.To learn more about Goodwill MicroEnterprise Institute, go to: http://goodwillswfl.org/microenterpriseGoodwill MicroEnterprise Institute(239) 995-2106 x 2215Support the show (https://goodneighborpodcast.com)

Wendy Bird, founder of Pearls with Purpose, is known as a Social Impactor, Certified High Performance Coach, International Keynote Speaker and Humanitarian. But her most important role is mother of 5 amazing kids, and grandmother to 6 spectacular grandchildren who fill her heart with love and her days with joy, laughter, and last-minute adventures! In 2002 Wendy founded the Pearls with Purpose Foundation, a grass-roots organization which blends micro-enterprise training with humanitarian assistance. Through this nonprofit, she has inspired and motivated people all over the world with her hand-up vs. hand-out approach to long term self-reliance. She partners with like-minded organizations (Operation Underground Railroad, Mentors International, Rising Star Outreach, Believe International and etc) to create dignity for women recovering from sex-trafficking or abusive/disadvantaged situations. She has an adventurous spirit and for years her motto has been “Life begins where your comfort zone ends.” She has accomplished several bucket list items such as (but definitely not limited to): learning to ski at age 40; riding LOTOJA; skydiving over Wallongong Beach in Australia; Hiking Havasupai Falls (Arizona), The Narrows; Angels Landing (Zions) Machu Pichu, (Peru) and Tigers Nest, (Bhutan). She loves planking all over the world despite 50 surgeries! She has also designed and published a 'mindfulness' planner called Planning With Purpose. (Available in hard-cover or digital download). Her upcoming book titled, #PurposeDriven- offers an inspiring and motivational look into her personal life and the lives in developing countries she has been blessed to interact and train with. Addressing the needs of individuals seeking a more purposeful life, The Purple Dress is the first in a series of long-awaited children's stories and is beautifully illustrated by artisans in the Philippines. For the podcast version of this episode visit: For the full interview:  Last Life Ever is broadcast live in our Facebook group Mondays at 7 pm EST/4 pm PST. Join us!  #lastlifeever​ #purposedriven​ #veronikaventures #shorts #2021goals​ #productive​ #focused​ #kindmorning​ #manifestation​ #purpose​ #bestlife​ @lastlifeever @jeffreyholst @jilliansidoti @veronikaventures @Pearlswithpurpose Last Life Ever FB Page: ​ Last Life Ever Free E-book:  Last Life Ever Kind Challenge:​ Last Life Ever Facebook Private Group:  www.coachwendybird.com www.pearlswithpurpose.org Facebook and Instagram: @pearlswithpurpose @wendylynnbird LinkedIn: Wendy Bird Twitter: @pearlspurpose Pinterest: pearlswithpurpose *** FTC LEGAL DISCLAIMER *** Some links found in the description box of our videos may be affiliate links, meaning we will make a commission on the sales you make through these links. This is at no extra cost to you to use my links and or codes, it's just one more way to support us and our channel.

Episode 52 is dedicated to sharing the latest in business news, starting first with the updates within Foreman & Associates, LLC, and then continuing to news related to tech, fintech, fast food, corporate pledges, and more. We then dedicate the balance of the show to highlighting businesses and professionals that we think you should support such as:Maaaad Mike's BBQ (Oklahoma City, OK) IG: @maaaad_mikes_bbqChocolate Occasions (Atlanta, GA) IG: @shopchocolateoccasionsHer Lips and Lids (North Carolina) IG: @herlipsandlidsStyle Eccentric Souls (Boston, MA) IG: @styleeccentricsoulsDope Pieces Puzzle Company (Atlanta, GA) IG: @dopepiecespuzzlecompanySean's Virtual Dance Fitness & Bootcamp Class ( Facebook.com/groups/seansvirtualfitness )We also shout out four companies that we highlighted in Episode 46:The Royal Brow (Smyrna, GA) IG: @theroyalbrowHelpmate VAs (virtual assistants) IG: @helpmatevasJazz it Up Skincare (Fayetteville, GA) IG: @jazzitupskincareSweet Charlene's Bakery (Houston, TX) IG: @sweetcharlenesbakeryAnd 5 companies that we found on Instagram:Brandywine Boutique [IG: @brandywineboutique]Upful Blends [IG: @upfulblends]Pattern Beauty [IG: @patternbeauty] You Go Natural [IG: @yougonatural]Kreyol Lily [IG @kreyollily]Each company is profiled in this podcast so tune in to get the deets!SHOW INFORMATION:Company: Foreman & Associates, LLCWebsite: ForemanLLC.comIG: @ForemanLLCFB: @ForemanAndAssociatesTwitter: @ForemanLLCPodcast Twitter: @ItAintSmall YouTube: user/ForemanAssociatesHOST: Natasha L. Foreman, CEO of Foreman & Associates, LLCWebsite: NatashaForeman.com IG: @NatashaLForemanFB: @NatashaLForemanTwitter: @NatashaLForemanLinkedIn: @NatashaLForemanTheme Song: “Higher Up” by Shane IversCopyright 2021. Foreman & Associates, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

How is E=H supporting grassroots entrepreneurship through our relief program? And what does community development have to do with education? Co-founder of E=H, Cameron Vivanco, her Ecuadorian co-worker Jorge Luis Rodriguez and special guest Suzy Olsen, board member of the E=H program in Calacalí, examine these questions.

CRA Podcast Episode: EBA Fund: Converting the promise of entrepreneurship into assets that build economic inclusion and equityThis episode interviews Brett Simmons, Fund Manager, and Joyce Klein, Chair of the Board of the EBA Fund and Director of Business Ownership Initiative, a program of the Aspen Institute. The podcast highlights the launch of Entrepreneur Backed Assets (EBA) Fund, is a new nonprofit creating a secondary market for microloans, a new tool to help capitalize CDFI lenders doing amazing work to serve entrepreneurs of color, small businesses in low-income communities, and the millions navigating through the pandemic. The EBA Fund has been made possible thanks to the Citi Foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, Microsoft Corporation, and Woodforest National.More information can be found at ebafund.org and at https://lnkd.in/g65muHdBrett Simmons, Fund Manager, EBA Fundbrett@ebafund.orgBrett Simmons is the Managing Director and Principal with Revolve and leads fund management for EBA Fund. He has more than a decade of program, planning, and entrepreneurial experience across industries. As Director of Programs and Policy, he was instrumental in Accion Chicago’s efforts to expand lending more than 150% during the aftermath of the financial crisis. Since that time, he has worked with several start-up engineered systems companies and in operations strategy and planning for Cummins Power Systems, a fortune 200 manufacturing firm. Brett earned a joint B.A. in Economics and History from Xavier University and has both a Master of Business Administration and Master of Philosophy of Religion from Yale University. Joyce Klein, Chair of the Board, EBA Fundjoyce.klein@aspeninstitute.orgJoyce Klein is the director of the Business Ownership Initiative, a program of the Aspen Institute, which advances business ownership as an economic opportunity strategy. Ms. Klein assumed the leadership of BOI (formerly FIELD) in 2012, after working as a senior consultant since the program’s inception in 1998. She is recognized as a leading expert on the field, speaking at national and regional industry conferences and being quoted in a variety of news media including The New York Times and National Public Radio’s Marketplace. Joyce has more than 20 years of experience studying and supporting microenterprise and entrepreneurial development programs in the United States, and has authored or co-authored numerous publications, including funder brief and strategy guides, evaluation and research reports, case studies and policy briefs. She has also designed and managed grant programs aimed at supporting innovation in the practice of microenterprise development in the United States.Under Ms. Klein’s leadership FIELD launched the Microfinance Impact Collaborative, helped to create the Small Business Borrowers’ Bill of Rights and the Responsible Business Lending Coalition, and launched new research into the role of platforms and networks in expanding the scale and impact of the US microenterprise field. BOI’s work includes examining the potential role of business ownership and the microenterprise field in addressing the challenges of financial inclusion, the racial wealth gap, and career development for youth.Ms. Klein also has worked as a consultant in the microenterprise field, providing assistance to clients including the Community Development Financial Institutions Fund of the US Department of the Treasury, and CFED (formerly the Corporation for Enterprise Development). Prior to her work with BOI, Ms. Klein led CFED’s work in microenterprise development. She holds a master’s in public policy from the University of California at Berkeley and a B.A. in economics from Boston College.CRA Today and the CRA HubLinda Ezuka, Founder, CRA Today and the CRA Hublinda@cratoday.comwww.cratoday.comhttps://www.cratoday.com/Hub The CRA Hub is a new way to connect and forge community development impact through our CRA programs. The CRA Hub is an exclusive membership for bank professionals to connect with fellow colleagues, find inspiration and master the art of the CRA. No matter where you are on your CRA journey, the CRA Hub has something for you. This membership is for you if: ~you are new to CRA due to a promotion, new job or position or were never formally trained on CRA;~you understand key CRA program elements and have navigated through your first CRA exam cycle and want to deepen your understanding of CRA best practices;~you are making progress on the integrity of your bank’s CRA data collection, maintenance and/or reporting and want to ensure enhanced data integrity;~you want to learn from experts about refreshing your CRA programs, and discover innovative programs to consider in your assessment areas;~you are navigating CRA regulatory reform or you suspect reform is on the horizon;~you want to vet an idea and discuss your approach to CRA decisions with CRA colleagues who understand the unique challenges in your programs; or~you want to forge potential partnerships for impact in a broader regional area.

102 Microenterprise Home Kitchen Ops | Overlooked Cleaning | Charcuterie BoardsFind out what it takes to open a MHKO. Recognize four areas that need to be cleaned more often than operators think. Finally, charcuterie boards are simple deli platters, but offering them to the public is a little more complicated. Welcome. This is Food Ops.

Stacy Neier Beran, senior Ignatian lecturer in marketing, speaks with a former student and a former client about their immersive learning experience in Quinlan’s Microenterprise course.  Visit Miss Swan's Perfect BBQ Sauce to learn more about this project.

Bill Fischer is a Professor of Innovation Management at IMD and Simone Cicero is the cofounder of Boundaryless and co-creator of the Platform Design Toolkit. We talk about what they have learned from years of studying and collaborating with the Chinese company Haier Group, whose Rendanheyi organisational model has been praised internationally as one of the most revolutionary management ideas of the 21st century. Our conversation explores the extraordinary leadership of CEO Zhang Ruimin, eliminating bureaucracy, designing an organisation to enable thousands of self-managed microenterprises, and what this model means for the future of work. How to follow Bill and Simone: Twitter: @bill_fischer and @meedabyte You can read the transcript version here. Resources: Link to sign up for Bill and Simone’s RenDanHeYi masterclass in October (link gives you a 25% discount with the code LEADERMORPHOSIS) The EEEO Toolkit Draft Download webpage (a set of tools to support the creation of an Entrepreneurial Organisation) The Boundaryless Haier webinar YouTube playlist Corporate Rebels’ post about Haier Bill’s chapter ‘Ecosystems as an engine for innovation and learning’ in the book ‘Ecosystems Inc’ Bill’s IMD profile where you can find more of his publications Simone’s interview with Bill on the Boundaryless podcast Alicia Hennig‘s paper on Daoism in Management

Strategy to Building a Pan Africanism during covid-19 - Guest Claude Louissaint, MPA Public / Private Sector Strategy Consultant Taught Entrepreneurship and Micro-Enterprise to entrepreneurs and small business owners at Florida Atlantic University - CURE and received Outstanding Instructor Award. Proven success in developing and managing complex public funded programs using federal, state, county, and private funding. Claude has a passion for implementing social services, economic development and community empowerment programs. Expertise establishing partnership agreements with Federal, State, County, Municipal, Businesses, and community groups on behalf of local government, and ability to attract and retain influential partners from both public and private sectors. Claude has proven success operating various businesses, developing and managing complex social services programs, and coaching entrepreneurs, individuals and families to achieve social and economic stability. He has served on the board of many organizations including the Broward County Schools Diversity Committee and Vocational Technical Adult Community Education Advisory Committee, FEMA Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP), the Multi-Cultural and Refugee Task Force of Broward County, Strategic Planning Committee for Federal Enterprise Zone. Claude has received numerous awards and recognition during the course of his career including a Special Recognition presented by the Mayor and Commissioners of the City of North Lauderdale for Outstanding Community Service May 30, 2017; Unsung Hero Community Service Award - Presented by the Caribbean American Coalition December 17, 2016; the Greater Cultural Coalition and the Caribbean Chamber of Commerce’s Diaspora Pioneer Award presented during the 20th Anniversary Unifest Caribbean Heritage Celebration in Appreciation and Recognition of Your Service in the Diaspora and to Your Country, presented in 2014. Claude was presented in 2014, the Haitian American Democratic Club of Broward County's Pioneer Achievement Award. The People's People Award - Presented by the Broward County Library in 2004, Appreciation Award Presented by the American Professional Taxi Cab Drivers Association in 2003, KEEPER OF THE DREAM AWARD - Presented by Markham Elementary School. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/sikilizaafrica/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/sikilizaafrica/support

In this episode, TTJ(es) are joined by a third Jess! Jessica Honegger, founder and creator of the popular fair trade accessory line, Noonday Collections. The THREE Jess(es) sit down for a very candid conversation about courage, and going scared anyway. Jessica shares about the difficult road of adoption, and how funding her adoption led her not only to their son, Jack, but also to her life's purpose, which now supports over 4,000 women economically, around the globe.Jessica exudes creativity and warmth, and reminds us that our hardships have a purpose so big, we cannot even fathom what is in store. Show Notes:Jessica Honegger, is the Founder and co-CEO of Noonday Collection, author of Imperfect Courage, host of the podcast Going Scared, and mom to three littles. She is passionate about encouraging others to leave comfort, go scared, and step into a life of impact. To learn more about Jessica:https://jessicahonegger.com/book: https://jessicahonegger.com/book/imperfect-courage/jewelry line: https://www.noondaycollection.com/podcast: https://jessicahonegger.com/podcast/instagram: @jessicahonegger; @noondaycollectionsfacebook: @jessicahoneggerofficialSupport the show (http://www.paypal.com)

Craig Downs and Mark Edelman discuss the Iowa Foundation for Microenterprise and Community Vitality and also the Community Vitality Center at Iowa State University. Episode includes a discussion of the Microenterprise Loan Fund and the technical assistance opportunities through the Community Vitality Center. Hosted by Steve Adams of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach.

Anthony Taylor is the principal and lead strategic planning facilitator at SME Strategy. He is an entrepreneur with over 10 years, running his own business while working with companies in various industries.   In 2016 he was chosen as a Global Entrepreneurship Week ambassador for Canada and SME Strategy was awarded the Palme Blue for "Microenterprise of the year" from the French Chamber of Commerce.   In this episode, Anthony shares how he helps leadership teams get aligned goals through strategic off-site planning sessions, coaching, project management, and leadership best practices.    Why you have to check out today’s podcast:   Learn to create a clear vision of your organization’s future success through strategic planning Discover what happens when you align and involve your team in your strategic planning Know the steps to put your strategic plan into practice “If you don’t feel like you have a clear direction, get a strategy meeting, get it off-site to specifically talk about your vision, purpose, values. Because if you don’t, then you’re going to get frustrated, you’re not going to be successful because how could you be successful if you don’t know what success looks like.”  - Anthony Taylor     Valuable Free Resource from Anthony Taylor Are you evaluating strategic planning for your organization? Download 15 Strategic Planning Questionnaire that will help guide your pre-planning process.     Key Takeaways: “If success was in place, how would we know if we got there.“ If you're managing people, how can you be successful? If you don't know where you're going?”   Connect With Anthony Taylor: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyctaylor604/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Smestrategy/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/smeinsights  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOHLNRrpk3rGUdg7qUQjiog   Connect With Trish Tagle: TrishTagle.com: https://trishtagle.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrishTagleLeadership LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patriciatagle  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamtrishtagle/  Book: Everyone Knows You Suck: Bad Boss Stories. A Succinct Guide by Trish Tagle    

Laura Lewis has a lived experience as an autistic person who lives with a mental illness. Laura advocates for the removal of the stigma associated with both. She is a member of several committees devoted to bringing about positive change. Laura has been pivotal in assisting her autistic son, Clay to start his own business. Laura is also a public speaker and most importantly can sing Happy Birthday backwards. You can connect with Laura via her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ lauralewisautismmentoring/ For Neurodiversity Consultancy get in touch with Jay Hobbs at Thriving Now. or be the first to find out about our next neurodiversity symposium and podcast series via our website

This podcast series from Thriving Now includes eight amazing interviews; 1. The Neurodiversity Movement with Author and Speaker Judy Singer 2. ADHD: The secret to my success with Creative Entrepreneur Rachel Worsley 3. Employee recruitment for greater inclusion with Cheryl Gledhill, Co-Creator of JobMatcher 4. The Neurodiverse Edge: Find exceptional talent with Psychologist and Director Jay Hobbs 5. Bias vs. Science: Embrace neurodiversity for evidence-based management with Software Engineer, Manuel Gomes 6. The Dyslexic Evolution: Helping dyslexic individuals thrive is a win-win with MD, Will Wheeler 7. Microenterprise for autistic teens with Speaker and Mentor Laura Lewis 8. Autism at work: How Auticon are supporting corporate's IT needs with MD, Amanda Turnill Find out about consultancy via our team at Thriving Now or our next Neurodiversity Employment Symposium in Australia and our next podcast series by registering at our Symposium website

In this episode, I give you a quick description of the social security system for a micro -enterprise. I also participated in a new training and understood what I had to improve to develop my business.

We emit 37 gigatons of CO2 every year. If we turned our agricultural waste alone into biochar, we could bring that number down by one or two gigatons. If we poured our roads with biochar and started turning waste streams like seaweed and municipal waste into biochar as well, we could get that number up to 50 or 60 gigatons of stored carbon annually. And that kind of net gain would get us back down to a safe level of 350 ppm of atmospheric CO2—in time scales of decades. Albert Bates is the author of several books on climate solutions, including Burn: Using Fire to Cool the Earth and The Biochar Solution. He is also a former environmental rights lawyer, mushroom farmer, brick mason and horse trainer. Albert cofounded the Global Ecovillage Network in 1995 and continues to serve as the organization’s representative in UN climate talks. He is also an advocate for the preservation of indigenous cultures and a leader in the movement to drawdown carbon with biochar. Today, Albert joins Christophe and Alexsandra to share his unique path from the courtroom to the ecovillage, describing how he came to study terra preta soils and get involved in the biochar movement. He discusses the pore structure of charcoal in the rich soil of the Amazon and explains why biochar remains in the soil for thousands of years. Listen in for Albert’s insight around the waste streams that could serve as biochar source material and learn about the ecovillages and cities that serve as proof of concept for using biochar to draw carbon out of our atmosphere and oceans!   Key Takeaways   [2:47] Albert’s path to reversing climate change  Attorney in Tennessee environmental justice case Won by proving climate change real + quit law Active in Global Ecovillage Network Interest in Brazil’s terra preta soils Integrate biochar into Ecovillage Movement    [9:05] The pore structure of charcoal in Amazonian soil Fractal (pits on walls of pores) Large surface area populated with biodiversity   [14:39] Why biochar remains in soil for thousands of years Very high temperatures change bond structure Chases off all other gases, carbon hardens into itself Difficult for microbes to digest (recalcitrant carbon)   [18:30] Examples of potential sources of biochar in waste Dead limbs from harvesting fruits Slash + sawdust from lumbering Old pallets/furniture scraps from mill Crop waste   [20:36] Problematic waste streams that could source biochar  Seaweed contaminating coast in the Caribbean Municipal sewage causing eutrophication of waterways   [22:42] The idea that not all biochar is created equal Designer chars w/ different qualities fit certain purposes Carbon cascade could generate a sequence of products   [25:40] How scaling the Ecovillage Model might influence biochar production Microenterprise hubs produce a range of carbon drawdown products Same basic process (pull carbon out of atmosphere and oceans)   [28:05] The roadblocks to harnessing waste streams for biochar Cost vs. price dilemma (can’t compete with fertilizer) Proof of concept realized through Ecovillage Network   [36:05] How Stockholm serves as a proof of concept for cities  Biochar used to rejuvenate trees, clean air, and water Reduce flooding + lock up carbon to meet Paris goals   [39:02] How listeners can learn more about biochar Experiment with making yourself, add to compost International Biochar Initiative + US Biochar Initiative   [43:27] Albert’s insight on the unique uses of biochar Charquila and charcolate Mud + biochar = bricks   Connect with Ross & Christophe   Nori Nori on Facebook  Nori on Twitter Nori on Medium Nori on YouTube Nori on GitHub Nori Newsletter Email hello@nori.com Nori White Paper Subscribe on iTunes Carbon Removal Newsroom   Resources   Collision Tech Conference International Biochar Initiative US Biochar Initiative Biochar 2019 in Fort Collins IBI Webinar Series Albert Bates Burn: Using Fire to Cool the Earth by Albert Bates and Kathleen Draper Mushroom People Global Ecovillage Network The Farm Wim Sombroek’s Research The Biochar Solution: Carbon Farming and Climate Change by Albert Bates The Paris Agreement: The Best Chance We Have to Save the One Planet We’ve Got by Albert Bates Ecosystem Restoration Camps The EmerGENcies Programme

Linda Rendleman tells Dr. Nancy O'Reilly how her foundation, Women Like Us helps women from Kenya to the United States with a Micro-Enterprise program that includes a learning center, mentoring and salons to help communities solve the problem of sex trafficking, homelessness and victims of domestic violence. They also talk about how wonderful it is to talk to groups with their daughters and Linda's favorite parts of Dr. Nancy's new book, In This Together.

Dan is joined by Agnes Dasewicz, Fellow at the Rockefeller Foundation and former Director of the Office of Private Capital and Microenterprise at USAID. Her career has spanned over 20 years in development finance, working at SEAF, AIG, and IFC at different points. In this episode, Dan and Agnes discuss the beginning of career working in private capital in emerging markets in Eastern Europe. During her time at USAID, Agnes helped secure over $20 billion of investment commitments from U.S. and African financiers in support of Power Africa. Agnes is now working on a project called “Opportunity America” which focuses on opportunities to create and finance sustainable infrastructure and economic growth in the poorer parts of the United States. To hear more from Agnes, watch her recent exit interview at CSIS.

Microenterprise development initiatives can help to create and grow businesses and, in many cases, much needed jobs. Elaine Edgcomb and Tamra Thetford at the Aspen Institute discuss their proposal for encouraging microenterprise investment as a job creation strategy in an Economic Development podcast.

You know what it’s like when you take home a brand new box of shoes? Imagine giving that feeling to someone who really needs them; the stories they hold, and the new stories, memories and opportunities that await them. Scour your home for as many shoes as you can find and put them into a gigantic box; more is definitely better. Print out a bunch of SoleMate notes because now it’s time to share all of your shoe stories. You’ve done the hard work; we’ll cover the shipping costs.

Abandoned by her husband, Elizabeth’s only option was to live with her children in a makeshift house with a plastic tarp. When Operation Blessing heard about their struggle, they built them a new house and trained Elizabeth in sewing so she could better provide for her family.

Lakay ZB Resto Plus is the latest project at the Operation Blessing-supported Zanmi Beni Children’s Home in Haiti. The profits from the new venture are used to help support the more than 60 orphaned and abandoned children through aquaculture projects that provide a source of nutritious fish for the children. Watch how lives are being changed.

After his wife abandoned him, Alberto struggled to care for their six children in a shanty covered with plastic. How could they hope to survive now that Alberto lost his job?

In Mexico, one in four youth neither work nor study. Find out how Operation Blessing Mexico is helping change that statistic through workshops in electricity and beauty. Make a donation to Operation Blessing: http://bit.ly/donate2OB

Abandoned by his mother at a young age, Hong Yu’s grandmother took him in, but poverty was a daily struggle. See how Operation Blessing helped this young man achieve his dream of becoming a chef so that he can return the blessing and provide for his grandmother. Learn more about our projects: www.operationblessing.org

When Conchita's husband lost his job, their family was financially devastated. Through a grant from Operation Blessing, Conchita started a sandal shop and now she and her husband are able to provide for their family. Learn more about our projects: www.operationblessing.org

View this video to gain a quick snapshot of what Operation Blessing is doing to alleviate the problem of human suffering through their food security programs. Learn more about our projects: www.operationblessing.org

View this video to gain a quick snapshot of what Operation Blessing is doing to alleviate the problem of human suffering through their microenterprise programs. Learn more about our projects: www.operationblessing.org

In a little shop on the outskirts of Bethlehem, a small team creates beautiful hand-made mosaics. What makes these pieces even more precious is the livelihood that this work brings men and women with disabilities.

As a young, single mother, Daise struggled to find work to be able to care for her child, until job training courses with Operation Blessing gave her the skills and confidence she needed to pursue her dreams. To make a donation to Operation Blessing's disaster relief efforts: bit.ly/​lIglbF

Ericka is a single mother who was abandoned by her husband and left to live in a shack with no means to provide for her children. Operation Blessing built Ericka a new home and gave a small business to help her support her young family. To make a donation to Operation Blessing's disaster relief efforts: bit.ly/​lIglbF

After a wall collapsed in Alicia’s home and onto her son Daniel’s bed, Operation Blessing built her family a new wall and gave them a grant to expand their family’s small business. To make a donation to Operation Blessing's disaster relief efforts: bit.ly/​lIglbF

Microenterprises, which employ about 20 percent of the U.S. private-sector workforce, have been especially important since the recent recession. Connie Evans, president and CEO of the Association for Enterprise Opportunity, discusses how economic developers can grow local jobs by supporting microenterprises.

In a little shop on the outskirts of Bethlehem, a small team creates beautiful hand-made mosaics. What makes these pieces even more precious is the livelihood that this work brings men and women with disabilities.

A young widow struggles to provide for herself and young daughter after her husband passed away. She worked long 12-hour days drying fish at a factory that was three hours from her house, which left her no time to take care of her daughter. Find out how her new small business is changing their life.

Dr. Catherine Dulmus, Director of the Buffalo Center for Social Research, speaks with Dr. Karen Sowers, Dean of the College of Social Work at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, about a project aimed at developing microenterprise among street children in Indonesia.

Prior to his live address at the AEO 2007 Annual Conference, 2006 Nobel Peace Prize laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus spoke to attendees via satellite and discussed the need to fill the financial services gap in the United States through microfinance and microenterprise development services. Despite America’s enormous wealth, he points out, there are many whom it does not benefit. He also asks the question, "How many people in the United States do not qualify or are not eligible to get financial services from the conventional banking system?" Answering, he says, "You just count them, city by city, county by county--how many people simply do not qualify in the eyes of the conventional banking system? Our point is, banking and the financial services should be an inclusive system, not an exclusive system for the privileged people. So microfinance, microenterprise, all these initiatives, fill the gap."To learn more about how AEO and its members are working to fill this gap, visit http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/To learn more about Dr. Yunus and Grameen Bank, go to http://www.grameen-info.org/To listen to this podcast, click here.

Amy McKenna Luz, president and CEO of AEO, opened the AEO 2007 Annual Conference by welcoming the membership and attendees to the "final conference of the Association for Enterprise Opportunity," going on to explain the plans to revamp AEO's brand and have a new name by the 2008 conference. In her address, Amy casts a vision of microenterprise becoming a household term, known from within the halls of Congress to corporate boardrooms, university classrooms and beyond. The keynote includes a special satellite address by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, where he discusses the need in the United States for microenterprise.To learn more about Amy McKenna Luz and her vision for AEO and the microenterprise development industry, go to http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/index.asp?bid=279To listen to this podcast, click here.

Dr.Muhammad Yunus, 2006 Nobel Peace Prize winner, made a surprise appearance at AEO's 2007 Annual Conference. Dr. Yunus was introduced by outgoing AEO Board Chair, Greg Walker-Wilson, who recalled his initial meeting with the economist from Bangladesh many years ago, and the lasting impact of that meeting on Walker-Wilson’s life and career. As he answered questions from the audience, Dr. Yunus spoke passionately and eloquently about the need and opportunity to to expand microenterprise in the U.S.To learn more about Dr. Yunus' speech, go to http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/index.asp?bid=2184To listen to this podcast, click here.

On the last day of AEO's 2007 Annual Conference, an innovative roundtable was held, titled Predictions for the Movement. Mark Pinsky of Opportunity Finance Network (OFN), Robert Egger of DC Central Kitchen, Kevin Kelly of AEO, and various audience members joined the discussion, moderated by AEO's CEO and President, Amy McKenna Luz. The discussion included assessments of the political environment for the microenterprise development industry specifically, and the nonprofit sector in general, along with ideas on how the field can expand its reach and gain increased visibility.To learn more about Opportunity Finance Network (OFN), go to http://www.opportunityfinance.net/To learn more about DC Central Kitchen, go to http://www.dccentralkitchen.org/To listen to this podcast, click here.

Robert Egger, Founder and President of DC Central Kitchen, speaking at the AEO 2007 Annual Conference, introduced by AEO's CEO, Amy McKenna Luz. Mr. Egger discusses some of the components of microenterprise in the US, along with the challenges faced by the nonprofit sector on a whole.To learn more about DC Central Kitchen, go to http://www.dccentralkitchen.org/To listen to this podcast, click here.

At the 2007 AEO Annual Conference, Saul and Carmen Manriquez, owners of Carniceria La Especial in Albuquerque, NM, were given the AEO Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Best Community Business. Using $200 of their savings, the couple started Carniceria La Especial as a small business selling specialty Mexican goods at a flea market in 1996. Since receiving five microloans from AEO member, ACCION New Mexico, the Manriquez' business has grown into a grocery and meat market and is an important fixture in Albuquerque's Mexican and Mexican-American communities. The couple came to the United States from Mexico in 1996 looking for a better life for their two daughters. The interviewer is Welthy Soni-Myers of AEO, and the comments and questions are translated by Marisa Barrera of ACCION New Mexico, a member of AEO's board of directors.To learn more about Saul and Carmen's story and the AEO Entrepreneur of the Year awards, go to http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/index.asp?bid=2169To listen to the podcast interview with Saul and Carmen, click here.

Treats for Troops is a web-based business founded in early 2003 by Denver business woman Deborah Crane, whose mission is to provide a safe, easy way to support America’s soldiers all over the world. Since the business was launched, more than 20 tons of treats have been shipped to soldiers all over the world and last year the business grossed $1.4 million. This million dollar business was launched with the help of AEO member, Micro Business Development (MBD) in Denver, which provided Deborah with a loan after she was turned down by banks.To learn more about Deborah and the AEO Entrepreneur of the Year awards, go to http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/index.asp?bid=2169To listen to the podcast interview with Deborah, click here.

Since 2002, AEO has honored leading innovators in the microenterprise development field with its Innovator Awards. This year, AEO recognized its Denver, CO member, Micro Business Development (MBD) for initiating a program that provides their clients access to affordable health care. With lack of health insurance identified as a major challenge for many Denver-based entrepreneurs, MBD partnered with Kaiser Permeanente to provide state-standard coverage to low-income MBD clients. Here, Caitlin Hedberg of MBD talks about her innovation, and how the openness of MBD leadership to new ideas allowed her to share the concept and move forward with it. MBD Executive Director Kersten Hostetter shares some of her thoughts as well. They are interviewed by Mike Skinner of AEO.To learn more about MBD's efforts and the AEO Innovator of the Year award, go to http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/index.asp?bid=2169To listen to the podcast interview with Caitlin, click here.

At the recent AEO Conference, 17 attendees from across the United States summed up what microenterprise meant to them. Hear from a diverse group of practitioners about why they feel microenterprise is important for both poverty alleviation and economic development.To learn more about the AEO Conference, go to http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/2007conference.To listen to the podcast, click here.

A conversation with Bob Friedman, founding chair of AEO, CFED Board Chair and Secretary of the Friedman Family Foundation. Bob discusses the start and overall history of AEO specifically, and U.S. microenterprise in general. He also discusses some of the integral aspects of the microenterprise movement, including thoughts on Dr. Muhammad Yunus' description of the talent, vision and energy of the poor.To learn more about CFED, go to http://www.cfed.org/To learn more about the Friedman Family Foundation, go to http://www.friedmanfamilyfoundation.org/To listen to this podcast, click here.

On AEO's May Policy Call, Jon Bailey, Director, Rural Research and Analysis Program of the Center for Rural Affairs in Nebraska discussed their efforts to include funding for a new rural microenterprise development program in the Rural Development portion of the Farm Bill. He described the contents of the legislation, its current status and how listeners can follow up with their Senators and Representatives to push for passage of this important piece of legislation. The call includes some questions from listeners.To learn more about AEO's policy priorities, go to http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/index.asp?bid=59To learn more about the Center for Rural Affairs, go to http://www.cfra.org/To listen to this podcast, click here.

Incoming AEO Board Chair, Dan Betancourt, talks with Greg Walker-Wilson, outgoing Chair, about his tenure on the Board. Walker-Wilson notes, among other things, some of the challenges for both the membership and the Board with the 2006 leadership transition. He then turns the tables, asking Betancourt about his take on the challenges and opportunities ahead for the Board and AEO.To learn more about Betancourt's new position and the five new directors elected to AEO's Board, go to http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/index.asp?bid=2222To listen to this podcast, click here.

At the 2007 AEO Conference, CDFI Fund Director Kimberly Reed sat down with Kevin Kelly, AEO's Managing Director for Policy and Advocacy, to discuss her initiatives as the CDFI Fund's newest director, along with how the CDFI Fund can work with AEO members.To learn more about AEO's policy priorities, go to http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/index.asp?bid=59To learn more about the CDFI Fund, go to http://cdfifund.gov/To listen to this podcast, click here.

Steve Johnson, Director of CDBG Entitlement Communities Division, HUD, discusses what exactly the Community Development Block Grant is, and how it can benefit microenterprise programs. He also discusses how much of CDBG funds go to microenterprise development programs and what those dollars are most often used for within the programs.To learn more about AEO's policy priorities, go to http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/index.asp?bid=59To learn more about the CDBG program, go to http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/communitydevelopment/programs/index.cfmTo listen to this podcast, click here.

AEO's Kevin Kelly sat down with Larry Laverentz, General Dynamics Information Technology Contractor for the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR), and Kasra Movahedi, ORR grantee and Community and Economic Development Manager at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in San Diego, CA. Mr. Laverentz discusses ORR's Refugee Rural Initiative, which aims to open up opportunities for refugees, often from agrarian backgrounds, to achieve self-sufficiency through agriculture. Mr. Movahedi shares about IRC's work with ORR as a grantee and about IRC's holistic approach to working with microenterprise and refugees by tying together projects such as urban farm initiatives, nutrition and cooking classes and farm to school programs, where school food will be purchased from local farms.To learn more about AEO's policy priorities, go to http://www.microenterpriseworks.org/index.asp?bid=59To learn more about ORR, go to http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/orr/To learn more about the International Rescue Committee, go to http://www.theirc.org/To listen to this podcast, click here.

Lina Page, Executive Vice President of Strategic Communications for Opportunity Finance Network (OFN), and Marcia Stein, Managing Director of Communications for AEO, discuss some of the nuts and bolts of rebranding. Ms. Page also provides an overview of the work that has been done to recreate OFN's brand as an organization, along with the overall brand for the opportunity finance industry.To learn more about Opportunity Finance Network, go to http://www.opportunityfinance.net/To listen to this podcast, click here.

This conversation with Dan Betancourt and Greg Walker-Wilson, the CEOs of Community First Fund and Mountain BizWorks, respectively, covers the rebranding they have both been working on within their microenteprise development organizations. Topics covered include possibilities for widening scope while maintaining mission, hiring communications staff, and other rebranding logistics. The conversation begins with Dan discussing some of the initial steps Community First Fund took.To learn more about Community First Fund, visit http://www.commfirstfund.org/To learn more about Mountain BizWorks, visit http://mtnmicro.org/To listen to this podcast, click here.