Building Resilience in Small Business: Insights from the Tech Talent Coalition’s Final Meeting of the Year
By Maria Derchi Russo
This week, the Tech Talent Coalition, with the support of the Economic Development Administration, convened for its final quarterly meeting of the year. Attendees were treated to an inspiring gathering filled with powerful stories from small business owners who exemplify resilience, creativity, and the entrepreneurial spirit. The meeting also showcased invaluable resources for the small business community, highlighting the importance of collaboration and support networks for budding entrepreneurs.
Reginald Andre: From Adversity to Entrepreneurial Success
The meeting featured Reginald Andre, the chair of the coalition’s Small Business Capacity working group and the founder of the cybersecurity and IT firm, ARK Solvers. Reginald captivated the audience with his harrowing yet inspiring story of overcoming significant personal and professional challenges. After being laid off from a business he had dedicated nine years to, Reginald found himself with just $100 to his name and a two-year-old son to support.
Facing dire circumstances, he chose to foreclose on his home and move back in with his mother. It was during this difficult time that Reginald decided to return to school, equipping himself with new skills that would lay the foundation for his future success. Today, ARK Solvers celebrates 14 years and boasts over $1 million in sales. Recognized as one of the fastest-growing cybersecurity companies for three consecutive years, Reginald attributes his success to three pivotal factors: a transformative educational experience, the support of a local business owner who believed in him, and a community that rallied around his vision.
His message to others? “Forgive.” Reginald emphasizes the importance of letting go of grudges, explaining that “life doesn’t happen to you; it happens for you.” This philosophy not only propelled him forward but also serves as wisdom for others navigating their own entrepreneurial journeys.
Aurelia Edwards: Innovating Through Diverse Experiences
Next on the agenda was Aurelia Edwards, the dynamic founder of Standard Measure Technologies. Previously featured in Refresh Miami, Aurelia’s journey is a testament to the power of adaptability and determination. Her professional trajectory transitioned from medical school to chemistry and then to massage therapy before she launched her press-on nail sizing brand, Nailstry.
This summer marked a significant milestone for Nailstry, as the company made its debut in the Japanese market, secured a holiday feature at Target, and initiated discussions with a leading nail polish manufacturer. Aurelia’s story of constant pivots encapsulates the reality many entrepreneurs face: the need to be flexible while remaining committed to a vision. Her journey highlights that success does not always come in a straight line, but through the willingness to embrace change.
Eric Williams: Transforming Spaces into Opportunities
The meeting also highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit of Eric Williams, who recently launched LocalPosh. Originally hailing from Mobile, Alabama, Eric was motivated to create his business after witnessing the struggles of local small businesses when a big box retailer moved into town. His initiative focuses on transforming underused spaces in homes and small shops into viable retail opportunities, thereby revitalizing local economies.
Eric’s vision extends beyond mere financial success. He seeks to create vibrant community hubs where small business owners can thrive against larger competitors. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have on their local business landscape.
A Showcase of Resources for Small Business Owners
As part of the meeting, attendees had the opportunity to explore an expo featuring various student demonstrations and local resources specifically tailored for small business owners. This included:
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4Geeks: A local coding school offering diverse courses ranging from Full Stack Development to Data Science and Machine Learning bootcamps, equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with necessary technical skills.
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Breakthrough Tech Miami: A program designed to assist employers in accessing early talent through Sprintership opportunities, bridging the gap between education and industry.
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Miami DDA: Serving as a premier resource for all business-related inquiries in Downtown Miami, including support with permitting, licensing, and regulatory compliance.
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Prospera: Offering bilingual training and support resources to help Hispanic entrepreneurs thrive in the U.S., fostering community prosperity.
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SBDC at FIU: Providing no-cost consulting and high-quality resources, coupled with the expertise of seasoned small business professionals.
- SMB Growth Lab by eMerge Americas: This initiative provides access to digital tools, comprehensive training, and exclusive connections within the tech ecosystem.
Call to Action: Get Involved!
As the meeting wrapped up, Reginald Andre encouraged attendees to get involved and spread the word about the initiatives hosted by the Tech Talent Coalition. Community collaboration is cornerstone to fostering a thriving entrepreneurial environment. Those interested in engaging with the coalition and its various working groups can learn more here.
Through stories of triumph, innovation, and a wealth of resources, the final quarterly meeting of the Tech Talent Coalition reinforced the notion that with perseverance, community support, and a willingness to seize opportunities, small business owners can navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and achieve remarkable success.