2weopmag2016 online

FROM A

FAWP

AN ANNUAL WEOP MAGAZINE | 2016 EDITION

MAN’S From A Woman’s Per spective HIP OPPORTUNITIES ECTIVE S P O N S O R S2015 Edition

FAWP A N N U A L

M A G A Z I N E

r Diversity Women in Business

cial Media nd Mobile chnologies

ontracting WEOP Member portunities Highlights and Programs

e Power of Business ration and Forward Strategies Networks Contracts and Your Business Women Go Mobile A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE Online Resources

PRENEURIAL UNITY PROJECT

EN’S TREPRENEURIAL ORTUNITY PROJECT

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE WOMEN’S ENTREPRENEURIAL OPPORTUNITY PROJECT, INC.

WOMEN’S ENTREPRENEURIAL OPPORTUNITY PROJECT, INC. www.weop.org

www.weop.org

WHY JOI N WEOP? Ask the 3 Ws!

CO N N ECT T O W EOP

What would I gain?

Targeted Resources! WEOP offers the tools you need to feed your entrepreneurial spirit and foster the growth of your business goals. From workshops, training classes, and forums to networking opportunities, we strive to surround you with dynamic opportunities to fuel your entrepreneurial fire!

OUR SOCIAL MEDIA

FACEBOOK

LINKEDIN

TWITTER

PINTEREST

Where will I go?

Think Global! Our free, social networking site Women2Contract connects aspiring leaders like you to other small business owners, Freelancers and Independent Contractors around the world. Connect with others, expand your business and find new opportunities. Our WomenGoMobile initiative can also help you effectively utilize technology and find the right digital strategy!

What would I need?

A Small Investment! Annual Membership is $100 with renewals at only $75. While comparable organizations bear membership fees upwards of $1,000, WEOP’s membership is reasonable with the continued financial support of community sponsors.

OUR WEBSITES WEOP.org Women2Contract.com WomenGoMobile.com

We want to make sure your decision to join WEOP is aligned with your future goals and right for you. Get to know us directly and take a moment to subscribe to our free newsletter or speak to us directly at 404-681-2497.

Visit WEOP online at www.weop.org

From A Woman’s Perspective | 2016 Edition | 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

6

Feature Stories: Power of Women Speaking of WEOP’s Leadership - Glenda Stinson In Her Shoes – Stepping Into a Legacy - Tracy Williams

5 Editors’ Page Antionette Ball Marionette Ball

8

Spotlight on WEOP Members Keshia Walker Kayla Dang Bridgett Bell Mindy Godwin

10

WEOP Corner n About WEOP n ABOVE n BCP Program n Women2Contract n WomenGoMobile n Events: Women’s History Month

4 | 2016 Edition | From A Woman’s Perspective

en’s urial Inc.

t of women sources, s.

support

16

WEOP Supporter – J.E. Dunn Construction

fr om a woma n ’ s pe r s pec t i v e An annual publication for the “Women’s Entrepreneurial Opportunity Project, Inc.”

Business Foward Strategies

17 18 19 20 21

Winning Contracts – Dr. Danette O’Neal

FOUNDING EDITOR

Crowdfunding – Danita Dyes

CONTENT EDITORS

Antionette Ball

Anisha Chandra

The Business of Credit – Funding Your Dreams – Rhonda J. Williams Infographic - Grow You Business

Dianne Valentin

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Marionette Ball

MAGAZINE LAYOUT Great Online Resources

Saria Canady

CONTRIBUTORS Marionette Ball

22

Special Thank You

Antionette Ball Anisha Chandra Lauren Englisbe Tina Douglas Danita Dyess Rhonda J. Williams Dr. Danette O’Neal

PUBLISHER Women’s Entrepreneurial Opportunity Project, Inc. 250 Georgia Ave., SE Suite 213 Atlanta, GA 30312

t

nology and pment.

le.com

sletter.

312

CONTACT US

Women@weop.org 404-681-2497 Copyright © 2015 All Rights Reserved www..weop.org

From A Woman’s Perspective | 2016 Edition | 5

A LETTER FROM

THE EDITORS

W

hen we started WEOP in 1999, my twin sister and I dedicated our work to the

Antionette Ball and Marionette Ball

mission of driving women toward economic self-sufficiency. Flashback to 2000, we initially focused our programs on targeting the population of low-income women transitioning

from welfare to work into higher paying positions.

At our first training center located in the heart of East Point, Georgia, we provided the community with a host of programs and workshops to support the growth of Women Owned Small Businesses; computer training and technology education; professional and career development. Hundreds of women have walked through the doors of WEOP for training, business support, special events, coaching and the opportunity to network with other women.

Fast forward to 2015, we have changed our name and replaced the “Employment” with “Entrepreneurial”. The reason for this change is based on new studies reporting that self-employment is considered a new labor trend. The reality that exist for us today, especially women of color, is the need to explore alternative strategies to achieve economic self-sufficiency.

It has been our experience that entrepreneurship supports a core value of women to pursue and achieve economic stability, which bears compounded benefits for their families and communities. As we approach the new year, we will continue to integrate technology and innovative programming to address the challenges women face.

We look forward to the vital support of our strategic partners and sponsors from the public and private sectors providing our clients with resources and new opportunities.

Our “Call to Action” for 2016 will be to encourage civic engagement and political education; continue to utilize technology and social media platforms to educate and empower women; connect women to mentors and provide technical support to build business credit for women.

We look forward to supporting enterprising women, building collaborative partnerships and strong networks to reach our mission and program goals.

Antionette and Marionette Ball WEOP Founders

6 | 2016 Edition | From A Woman’s Perspective

FEATURES - GLENDA STINSON SPEAKING OF WEOP’S LEADERSHIP

A

By Lauren Englisbe s chair of the WEOP board of directors, Glenda Stinson is committed to supporting women and helping them achieve success in business. This

Senior Supplier Development Consultant for Georgia Power, one of the nation’s largest generators of electricity, is a key contributor to the Customer Service Operations’ supplier diversity initiatives. In her role, she assists in the development of the

Glenda Stinson

annual spending analysis. She also mentors suppliers and manages their performance to ensure compliance.

Stinson is an integral part of WEOP and is

these participants have brought valuable information to women owned small businesses. The educational forums educate

always willing to lend a hand and share her

women on a range of business topics.

wealth of experience. She originally became

Stinson has been instrumental in making

involved as a guest speaker at one of WEOP’s Business Contract Professional (BCP) classes held at Atlanta Technical College. She accepted the invitation to speak with the class without hesitation and encouraged the students to contact her at any time for assistance or information. WEOP’s Director, Antionette Ball shares, “When our students reach out, she is there to help, and through her work she continues to demonstrate her commitment to helping women achieve business success. Commitment from professionals such as Glenda helped to make the BCP program a success.”

When a position on the board opened, Stinson accepted WEOP’s invitation; a year later she was overwhelmingly elected to lead. WEOP and Stinson have worked together to develop a Business Forum, a program held every other month at Georgia Power. Each forum features industry professionals from companies like J.E. Dunn, Google, Dentons, and MARTA;

WEOP’s annual Women’s History Month celebrations possible. She was a key driver for our November 2014 and March 2015 events, and was able to gain support from the Georgia Power Supplier Diversity team and other local partners, including the Small Business Development Center.

WEOP is delighted to have Stinson on board as one of its advocates. As board chair, Stinson is leading the organization toward success, and she is always available to assist members and students in need of guidance.

WEOP’s affiliation with corporations like Georgia Power has been fundamental to our growth, and with this level of support, WEOP is certain to thrive for many years to come.

Lauren Englisbe is a content specialist in Atlanta, Georgia. She has managed writing teams both large and small. She created So Long, FOMO, a travel blog for people who can’t always travel, and writes for a variety of publications.

www..weop.org

From A Woman’s Perspective | 2016 Edition | 7

FEATURES - TRACY WILLIAMS

In Her Shoes Stepping Into A Legacy

By Anisha Chandra

T

o walk in her father’s shoes and run the family business was a challenge and a unique opportunity for Tracy Williams. When her father started his own company in

2000, Tracy had no idea that she would be the one taking the lead and running the company. After graduating from Georgia State, she was on a fast track to pursuing a career in health care. Little did she know that her father had a different plan for her; he instilled in her that entrepreneurial spirit and without hesitation she stepped into his shoes and embraced the opportunity to build the family business.

This 35 year-old Georgia State graduate took her first step in 2011 when she joined

Tracy Williams

the family business Accuclean, a commercial janitorial company. Williams now assumes full responsibility for managing the daily operations at AccuClean, overseeing financials, customer support, and public relations. Williams manages a corporate office of 65 employees with hundreds more in the field. “When you work in a non-traditional industry, where most of the interaction is with men 99% of the time, people respect you on the job – as long as you know the job and have all the capability,” Williams proudly states.

Williams is adaptable in an ever-changing industry. She has taken on the challenges that come with working with LEED certified buildings and medical facilities. “With green cleaning, you must institute programs to make sure everything is environmentally friendly,” states Williams. More importantly,

Williams is humbled by the opportunity of

children. As a woman, Tracy realizes this

employing other women, who oftentimes

opportunity for other women as well,

seek a secondary income to maintain their

serving as an active member of WEOP and

economic stability.

benefiting from the events and activities that

Williams is key in providing the tools for

expose her to other women in business.

success. With janitorial safety and floor

As her children and other women

technical training, Williams fosters confident

experience her running a business, she can

employees who one day can start their

create a dynasty that can be passed down

own cleaning businesses and contracting

to her children and replicated by others

opportunities. “One of our mantras is not

inspired by her. Tracy walks forward now to

only to be a sustainable company but to be

forge her own path and to truly make her

a leg up for someone else because you do

father’s shoes her own.

need that start.”

Anisha Chandra is an Analytics Associate

Tracy’s success comes from seizing an

at a global consumer investment firm

unexpected opportunity and envisioning

headquartered in Atlanta, GA. She enjoys

the endless possibilities. As a mother,

researching and writing articles that

she understands that she too has the

highlight women issues and business

opportunity to create a legacy for her

topics.

8 | 2016 Edition | From A Woman’s Perspective

SPOTLIGHT - MEMBERS Persistence is the Key to Success

Insights Marketing and Promotions – Keshia Walker

By Tina Douglas When it comes to Atlanta-based business women, Keshia Walker is definitely a name to remember. Walker is the president and founder of Insights Marketing and Promotions, which is becoming the go-to company for special events and superior client representation in the AfricanAmerican and Hispanic communities.

Focused on corporate, entertainment, and sports marketing, Insights counts athletes Jerome Bettis, Josh Smith, and Magic Johnson among its clientele. The firm reaches over two dozen national markets and has eight international ventures. Walker shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. “I plan to have at least 40 percent of

the company’s revenue, by the end of 2016, outside the U.S.” Walker keeps active in the community as well: she founded Team 94 Foundation, an inner city youth development program; she also belongs to Howard University’s Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, which encourages academic excellence. As a member of the WEOP, she values the diversity, variety, and opportunities offered.

When asked to what she owes her success, Walker offers “the five Ps: prayer, persistence, patience, professionalism, and planning.” For more information: www.insights-mpc.com

Keshia Walker

When Opportunities Come – Take It! GMI Group, Inc. – Kayla Dang

By Tina Douglas As CEO of GMI Group, Inc., a green janitorial company with businesses spanning six states, Kayla Dang’s journey to success was no easy feat. Her family fled war-torn Laos to come to the U.S. when Dang was only ten. “It was life-changing. We’d never been on a plane.”

Dang adapted well, learning English and finishing her education.

She started working for a janitorial company in 1997, and took on every position she could to learn the business. This experience served her well when she was offered the chance to take over GMI. “When opportunities come around, take them,” she says.

“You never know where [they] will lead you.”

Dang is active in the community, having held several leadership positions with the Greater Women’s Business Council. She belongs to the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council, and she recently completed the Small Business Administration’s Emerging Leaders program. As a member of the Laotian American Society, she helps raise money for scholarships.

Kayla Dang

She values her affiliation with WEOP for the opportunities to meet other business owners. “I want more growth in the coming year.” With a projected revenue this year of four million dollars, it looks like she is well on track to achieving that. For more infomation: www.thegmigroup.com

www..weop.org

From A Woman’s Perspective | 2016 Edition | 9

SPOTLIGHT - MEMBERS

Mindy Godwin

Be Better Than Your Competition

Bridgett Bell

Go For it!

ARC – Mindy Godwin

Force Security, Inc. – Bridgett Bell

By Tina Douglas

By Tina Douglas

“You’ve got to love what you do, and always be a little bit better

“Just go for it” may be easier said than done, but not for Bridgett

than your competition.” Mindy Godwin and her family certainly love

Bell. While teaching business, accounting, and entrepreneurship

what they do. Their motto is “if you print with it, print on it or simply

at Atlanta Metropolitan College, Bell had a plan to start her own

want it printed”. American Reprograhics Corporation “ARC” is a

business. She founded Force Security, Inc., which provides

supplier of ink, toner, paper, printing, promotional items, copier and

security manpower for federal, state, and local governments, as

printer sales and service. Steve Hamburger, Godwin’s father, started

well as large corporations.

American Reprographics Corporation in 1978. “We are fortunate that every business needs what we sell and we do our best to stand apart by providing excellent service. It’s what has made our company so successful through the years” stated Goodwin.

Though Force is now a full-service firm, during the early days Bell intentionally kept the business small. “I wanted to make sure I could manage it and a full-time job,” stated Bell. She still had her eye on the future, however, when AMC decided to

Godwin joined the ARC sales team in 1998 and took over as

eliminate her position, she was already prepared to leave. She

President in 2012. In her 17 years in the family business, ARC has

was working on a huge contract for a security firm and found

grown from just a couple dozen customers to over 250 clients,

out on that same day that she had won the contract.

and clears over a million in annual sales. They are a family owned operation with warehouses throughout the Southeast and count Enterprise Rent A Car as one of their top clients.

Godwin served as president of the Atlanta Business Alliance, “ABA” a long standing networking organization that has been in the Atlanta area for more than 20 years. ARC is a certified Wbenc business (Women’s Business Enterprise National Council.) She is also involved with several Women-Owned Small Business programs, and also participates in cancer-related organizations.

Godwin says her time with WEOP has been an asset: it allows her to give and receive advice from fellow members and expand her connections. For additional information: www.arcinatlanta.com

Bell advises entrepreneurs to work toward their desires: volunteering for extra duties or signing up for work-sponsored training seminars, for example. “There’s a seat at the table for you, if you just come on in.”

WEOP members can listen to Bell talk about her expertise and experience in a podcast called The Wealth Choice, available at yourlisten.com/Bridgett.Bell. For additional information: www.forcesecurityinc.com Tina Douglas is currently a WEOP Board Member. She is a Veteran Journalist and professional Publicist. She also spends her time doing voice overs and special news assignments for several media outlets.

10 | 2016 Edition | From A Woman’s Perspective

WEOP CORNER

Karen Mills, Instructor, Mills Law Associates, LLC

T

ABOUT WEOP

hrough the A.B.O.V.E. program initiative we empower women through education, training, mentorship and utilizing technology. Program components are described in the following categories: WE-Educate, WE-Train,

is one of WEOP’s core training programs.

WE-Mentor and WE-Use Technology.

WE-MENTOR

WE-EDUCATE

The WE-mentor initiative was launched

We educate our community of women with strategic programming that includes a calendar of training classes, business workshops and events that focus on a range of topics and new technology. The calendar includes classes and workshops that provide women with information and resources related to digital marketing, cutting edge technology, legal, contracts and supplier diversity program initiatives.

WE-TRAIN The Business Contract Professional (BCP)

The overall goal is to provide the skills and knowledge to successfully identify and compete for prime and subcontracting opportunities with the federal government or in the private sector.

this year as an effort to match our clients to experienced industry leaders, seasoned entrepreneurs and supplier diversity professionals. The mentors are selected from WEOP’s current circle of volunteers and supporters.

WE-PARTNER We leverage collaborative and strategic partnerships with local businesses, corporations, educational entities and community organizations to enhance our

WE-UTILIZE TECHNOLOGY

WEOP leverages the efficient use of technology to widen our impact and reach a global audience of women. The Women2contract online membership portal was launched as an online destination of resources and information for aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, freelancers, consultants and anyone seeking business and contract opportunities in the public and private sectors.

WEOP’s “Women Go Mobile” training was another important initiative designed as a platform to train and educate women to integrate mobile applications and technology to accelerate their business growth and increase productivity.

WEOP is the proud recipient of the 2014 “Small Business Champion” award from the Georgia District, Small Business Administration (SBA).

programing and expand our reach.

www..weop.org

From A Woman’s Perspective | 2016 Edition | 11

WEOP CORNER

A.B.O.V.E. Connecting, Empowering and Educating Women in Business

H

Power. Speakers at the event included

undreds of women

Rholanda Stanberry, Fulton County, Bruce

benefited from WEOP’s business forums and events conducted under

Women’s Entrepreneurial Opportunity Project, Inc. and Fulton County Department of Purchasing & Office of Contract Compliance present

Bell, City of Atlanta, Felton Williams, DeKalb County, Carol Rogers, Clayton County,

the Advancing Business

Larry Scott, Contract Compliance, City of

Opportunities Ventures ABOUT WEOP

Atlanta Department of Mayor, and Kimberly

The Women’s Entrepreneurial Opportunity Project, Inc.

mission is to promote the economic advancement of year and Enterprises (ABOVE) initiative. This women uJlizing technology based soluJons, educaJonal resources, training and entrepreneurship opportuniJes.

we conducted business roundtable sessions YOU CAN BE A WEOP MEMBER and a forum in October at the Georgia Join our circle of women by becoming a member of WEOP

with an annual fee of $99.00. Membership provides access to special workshops, newsleQers, annual events, technical support, new business contacts and so much more!

Power Conference Center.

We conducted our first business forum on January 16, 2015 which featured Sheila Jordan, SPONSORS Knowledge Architects, and Todd Gray, Grady

DOING BUSINESS FORUM October 27, 2015

In celebraJon of Women’s Small Business Month

Smith, Smith Ink and Kimberly Griffin, from

greetings and Dr. Danette O’Neal, Danette O’Neal Realtors, spearheaded the luncheon session.

The overall purpose was to provide women and minority owned small business with procurement and supplier diversity

the year were Karen Mills, Mills and Associates, Yasslyn Mack, The Mack Agency, Pamela

Business Administration (SBA) brought

owners with the opportunity to network

Hospital. Other speakers featured throughout Christy Wolfe, Dentons, Jewel Burks, Google,

Griffin, DBE Consulting. Cassius Butts, Small

Women’s Entrepreneurial Opportunity Project, Inc. 404-­‐681-­‐2497 women@weop.org www.weop.org

DBE Consulting. Our speakers discussed a range of business topics and issues that

In acknowledgement of National Women’s

included teaming agreements, supplier

Small Business Month, we ended the

diversity programs, branding, certifications

year with a “Power of Doing Business

and success strategies.

Forum” on October 27, 2015 at Georgia

officers while learning about the process and potential for contracting and business opportunities.

Business forums were conducted in partnership with Georgia Power with financial support from the First Nonprofit Foundation, Fifth Third Bank, Grady Hospital, and JE Dunn Construction.

12 | 2016 Edition | From A Woman’s Perspective

SIGNATURE PROGRAMS BUSINESS CONTRACT PROFESSIONAL (BCP) PROGRAM

GROW YOUR BUSINESS WITH CONTRACTS!

D

By Antionette Ball id you know the Federal government is one of the biggest purchaser of supply and goods from the private market. Are you familiar with supplier diversity programs or have you explored contracts with your local state or county? Exploring all types of contract opportunities provides you with

additional business opportunities to earn revenue and grow your business. Before you take the leap – you should ask yourself – are you contract ready? Before you make your approach to a potential Contracting Officer or Supplier Diversity professional, be prepared to do business the right way.

For example, prior to pursuing federal contracting, you should register your business in the System for Award Management (SAM) and select your NAICS codes. Also, take time to research the agencies and companies that you plan to approach. As with anything in business, as an intelligent educated entrepreneur you can set yourself up for success.

If you are interested in pursuing contracts in the private sector with corporations, you should understand supplier diversity programs and how they can benefit you as a women owned small business. If you are interested in federal contracting, you should understand the registration processes and how to respond to a bid or solicitation.

Learn about the programs that can help you leverage yourself as a women or minority owned small business.

For these reasons, WEOP offers the Business Contract Professional Class (BCP). BCP is one of WEOP’s signature programs conducted under the ABOVE program component. The program consists of five weeks of hands-on, instructor-led training classes, specialized workshops with industry experts, mentoring sessions, and team projects. Participants successfully completing the program will have acquired the skills, tools, and knowledge to pursue contracting opportunities.

Want to learn more – join the BCP class and optimize your potential to be contract ready. Classes will soon be offered online for our members in other cities!

Antionette Ball is one of the Founders of WEOP and the creator of the Business Contract Professional Program (BCP). She was committed to developing a program that would help WOSB understand how to navigate through the contract process.

www..weop.org

From A Woman’s Perspective | 2016 Edition | 13

SIGNATURE PROGRAMS

women2contract.com

I

n today’s world, it’s not just about what you know anymore, it is about who you know. Whether you’re a start-up wanting to reach your target audience or a mature business thinking of going global, networking and technology afford us the ability to take our ideas to the next level.

Women2Contract.com is a powerful social networking site that connects women entrepreneurs around the world with the goal of expanding contract opportunities in the public and private sectors. It’s networking galore for women, coupled with

many additional resources including educational articles, information related to contract opportunities and supplier diversity programs.

This site allows women to join in on business conversations, receive event notifications, join groups based on similar interests, post articles, share videos and engage with its broad community of members. The site commands a true global presence, with over 1,500 subscribers representing countries including Brazil, Spain, Poland, and Canada.

14 | 2016 Edition | From A Woman’s Perspective

SIGNATURE PROGRAMS

Alicia Redmond, Alicia Redmond Studios

WOMEN GO MOBILE “Businesses and work environments are going through a global transformation and everyone is connecting to the Internet using their smart phones and tablets”

Studies confirm that people are adopting the usage of smart phones and mobile devices at an astounding rate. Going mobile is key for staying competitive in business and achieving career success. For this reason, WEOP launched the “Women Go Mobile (WGM)” as a signature program.

The “Women Go Mobile” movement encourages women to go mobile and provides specialized workshops on the latest mobile applications and cutting edge technologies. Women benefit from a calendar of workshops facilitated by technology professionals on a range of topics from digital marketing to business apps.

Participants are assured that they will walk away with a strategy, useful tips, and resources to help stay on top of new business trends and mobile applications.

Last year Marc Parham, Capbuilders

Network, facilitated a great workshop on the “The Power of Podcasting,” and Martin Pratt shared his strategy on how to be a social influencer.

During January 2016, in partnership with the Small Business Administration (SBA), we will kick off a special workshop series titled “Mobility Matters.” The sessions are designed to help you learn how to leverage the power of mobility and keep on top of the 2016 trends to achieve business and career success!

Want to learn more about technology, you can also visit the www.womengomobile. com online portal to pick up tips and get additional information. WGM is supported with a grant from Wells Fargo. So what are you waiting for? Visit WGM online now for access to educational resources, videos, workshops, training and more.

www..weop.org

From A Woman’s Perspective | 2016 Edition | 15

WEOP EVENTS WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH RECAP

W

e met some amazing women at WEOP’s annual Women’s History Month celebration on March 27, 2015. Our Mistress of Ceremonies for the morning was author Celest Turner, Growth by Celest. The event started with Moanica Caston, Georgia Power, providing a historical view of women. Our first panel discussion, moderated by Glenda Stinson, featured Todd Gray, Grady Hospital, Mary Ellen McClanahan, Georgia Department of Economic Development and Ken Compton, Georgia Power. The panel discussed supplier diversity, business opportunities and programs for women owned small businesses.

Hour of Power Panelists

The session was immediately following with our “Hour of Power” panel featuring Gretchen Orrin, Athena Construction; Moanica M. Caston, Georgia Power, Sheila Jordan, Knowledge Architects, LLC and Teneshia Warner, Egami Consulting Group. Each of the panelists shared their perspective of how they defined success based upon their personal strategies. They all mutually agreed upon the importance of having mentors and advisors that will hold you accountable.

We were honored to have Cassius Butts, SBA Regional Director give greetings to our audience. One of our WEOP members, Jahari Soward, CEO, NPursuit Career partners, served as moderator.

Cassius Butts introduced our featured keynote speaker, Stacey Y. Abrams, the House Minority Leader for the Georgia General Assembly and State Representatives for the 89th House District.

She is the first woman to lead either party in the Georgia General Assembly and the First African American to lead in the House of Representatives.

Economic Development Panel discussion

The first afternoon session titled “Access to Capital and Financial Resources” featured Elizabeth Williams, Georgia Micro Enterprise Network (GMEN), Vonda Echols, Access to Capital (ACE), Marc Parham, CAPBuilder Network, and Rosemarie Drake from the Small Business Administration (SBA). They all discussed the importance of preparing and building business credit. They advised the audience to build relationships with bankers and keep sound financial documentation.

The last panel was moderated by Yolanda White, The Coca Cola Company, focused on the discussion of marketing and technology.

Panelist included WEOP member Keshia Walker, Insights Marketing, DeShon Crayton, Cisco Systems, Inc. and Kevin Johnson, Georgia Power.

The event was made possible with support from Georgia Power, JE Dunn Construction, Fulton County, Fifth Third Bank and the First Non Profit Foundation.

Stacey Abrams, Keynote Speaker

16 | 2016 Edition | From A Woman’s Perspective

SPONSOR HIGHLIGHT JE Dunn is Empowering Hundreds of Women in Construction Cherelle Cortez is one of them

ontractor business development program

As East Region Diversity Manager for JE Dunn Construction, Cherelle Cortez helps ambitious, entrepreneurial women help themselves.

“Businesswomen are talking about taking their companies to the next level,” Cortez says. “But I also hear a lot about hurdles and doubts: ‘Where do I find trustworthy employees?’ . . . ‘I feel trapped by administrative work’ . . . ‘I’ve had the same clients for years. How can I expand?’”

Cortez connects women’s construction related businesses to rewarding M/WBE initiatives and opportunities.

Thrive in a tough, competitive industry

JE Dunn subcontracts work to minority and women-owned contractors, vendors, suppliers, and service providers, as well as partners with them to further their development as viable, sustainable businesses.

JE Dunn’s Atlanta office has spent $27.1 million with women-owned enterprises.

Consider the Minority Contractor Business Development Program (MCBDP).

Offered free of charge to competitively selected companies, MCBDP reinforces business fundamentals and delivers industry specific tools for estimating, legal, accounting, technology, and more.

“JE Dunn genuinely opened its doors to our company and helped us set higher goals, improve our professional business skills, and especially helped us network with JE Dunn people, leading to actual work for us. We were blown away by JE Dunn’s generosity and engagement.”

Ready to start? Cortez suggests: • Determine where your business is and where you wish to take it

— Juliana Gomez, Sol Construction, Atlanta

• Assess strengths and weaknesses in your internal operations

• Be honest about what’s holding you back (fear, work load, capital?)

• Tap free and low-cost resources—such as JE Dunn—and IMPLEMENT

Learn more about JE Dunn’s MCBD Program and other M/WBE initiatives.

Contact Cortez at Cherelle.Cortez@jedunn.com or 678.781.2574.

Cherelle Cortez is a member of the WEOP Board of Directors

MCBDP Class of 2013

Photo: JE Dunn Construction

www..weop.org

From A Woman’s Perspective | 2016 Edition | 17

STRATEGIES

YOUR WINNING STRATEGY TO WIN CONTRACTS!

I

By Dr. Danette O’Neal t is said that when women get together, we can hold down three different conversations simultaneously and still leave with our mission accomplished. One of the tools I use to get down to business is my Capability Statement. The Capability Statement is a document that is used to briefly introduce your business to others, particularly government contractors who may be

interested in working with you. It is used to diffuse information most important to a particular decision-maker (a resume for your company). The one-two page document highlights in a clear and concise manner your differentiators to the prospect.

Small Business Specialists within government agencies use this information to decide whether to refer you to contracting offices, prime contractors or determine if you have the capacity to perform.

The Capability Statement should have six distinct sections. I would recommend saving and sending this document as a PDF to avoid losing formatting.

Government contracting has developed into a very sophisticated and competitive marketplace. For this reason, you may want to develop several different versions of your capability statement,

COMPONENTS: CAPABILITY STATEMENT 1. Header- Use your company’s logo or brand 2. Core competencies - short phrases or bullets to describe your company’s expertise.

3. Past performance - listing past customers related to the targeted audience 4. Differentiators - succinct clear statements relating to specific talents of your agency (why should they pick you?)

5. Company data - geographic areas served, NAICS codes, DUNS, Socio-economic certifications, BPA’s, etc.

6. Contact information - contact person, address, phone, fax, email, web address, etc.

tailoring each to a particular government sector (again similar to your personal resume when applying for a particular job). List any accolades, notable accomplishments, or bio of the CEO if you have space.

It is also a good idea to create a one-page briefing sheet on your company (this is your elevator speech). This should be tailored to the contract, or grant you are going after or entity you want to do

what your company size. So do what I do, make 10 copies of each, always carry them with you (digital copies in Dropbox as well) and don’t forget to update them regularly when you have something to brag about.

business with. Briefing sheets are useful as handouts when you are attending mass contracting meetings, pre-bid conferences, tradeshows, or face-to-face meetings. Capability statements and briefings sheets are essential tools to your success, no matter

Dr. Danette O’Neal: HGTV Alumna; Broker: Danette O’Neal Realtors, Inc. LEED & Public Policy Strategist; Professor-SME: Strayer University

18 | 2016 Edition | From A Woman’s Perspective

STRATEGIES

Should Crowdfunding Provide Capital for Your Business?

By Danita Dyess

A

1 2 3 4

LIne up your ducks Successful projects are painstakingly organized. Pay

ccording to the National Association of Women Business Owners, “The major sources of funding that women business owners continue to rely on are personal

savings, reinvested business earnings, lines of credit, loans...” But how do you raise capital if conventional lending practices fail?

Crowdfunding – the act of raising a small amount of funds from a lot of people to support a project – may be your best option.

Patrice Williams Marks is the author of “Hacking Kickstarter, Indiegogo: How to Raise Big Bucks in 30 Days: Secrets to Running a Successful Crowd Funding Campaign on a Budget.”

Her bestselling book is a comprehensive, step-by-step source of crowdfunding do’s & don’ts. She said, “Crowdfunding is constantly growing.”

Predictably, crowdfunding includes the project founder, individuals or groups who buy into the vision and a medium that unites all parties, e.g. Gofundme, Kickstarter, Indiegogo, etc. Crowdfunding originated in 2003 with ArtistShare. But it has transitioned into the corporate world and even the political arena. Chrysler and President Obama have used this method. In 2013, this alternative form of financing

attention to details and develop a strategic approach.

Create a personal link Bonding with your audience is crucial. Create a blog or website to tell your story.

Post your videos everywhere and note important places to post Go beyond your Facebook page to post a video. Use all social media and brainstorm other related options.

Create a media list Contact specific reporters that would have an interest in your project. Visit the Internet Public Library to find magazines and

newspapers in your industry. Use Technorati to find Top 100 Blogs that list journalists. Conduct a LinkedIn search of reporters.

5 6

Write a brief press release Include who, what, why, when and where in a concise 200word announcement of your project.

Perfect your pitch What do you want to accomplish? Hone your message and learn from other moneymaking ventures.

Marks said, “Be careful who you support. Scams have been reported.

totaled more than $5 billion.

Google the person or organization and practice due diligence.” She

However, a crowdfunding campaign can be full of pitfalls. Marks

financing. “Typically, the kind of person that uses crowdfunding is

noted over 65% of crowdfunding projects will fail. Common reasons include launching before gathering your tribe, weak social media, ineffective advertising and lack of partners.

doubts that crowdfunding will ever eliminate traditional the creative type whose artistic projects don’t conform to the mandates of financial institutions.” However, as corporations build their brand on social responsibility and community activism,

Successful projects are based on one key element: Building your

crowdfunding’s altruistic component nurtures connections and

community first and foremost. Other steps include the following.

sales. It goes beyond raising capital. It’s also good for your business.

Danita Dyess started writing in 1992. She has written thousands of articles, interviews, blog posts, career guides and online courses. She is the founder of Align Career Strategies and specializes in writing about human resources and career development.

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From A Woman’s Perspective | 2016 Edition | 19

STRATEGIES

The Business of Credit Funding Your Small Business Dreams According to Bloomberg, 80% of entrepreneurs who start businesses fail within the first 18 months. Does this mean we should take our entrepreneurship dreams and pack them away? I think not! Taking the leap of faith to build a business can be the best of times and most assuredly the worst of times. Many business owners dream of the freedom of owning a business but don’t prepare themselves with a solid financial foundation. For many owners, credit will be the primary resource used to fund their businesses.

Here are 4 tips to building your personal credit profile to fund your small business dreams.

Know Thy Self The world is judging you by your credit, therefore, it is critical for you to know what is on your credit report. According to the FTC, 20% of all Americans have errors on their credit reports. Errors which could easily affect your credit approval. Get the full story by reviewing all three reports annually through annualcreditreport.com.

Replace the Bitter With the Sweet The largest factor making up your credit score is payment history. If you’ve had challenges in your financial past which have led to collections, liens or judgments, these are major negative marks which bring down your score. Paying-off or settling these debts will boost your score and rebuild your profile.

Play the Game to Win Win or lose, credit is a game and many of us weren’t taught the rules. Credit scores

indicate how well you’re playing the game.

attractive about a cash-strapped or credit-

Strategically adding positive payment history

stretched business. Credit is a great tool

to your credit profile is a major play which

to expand and grow your business but it

ultimately raises your score. Play to win with

should never be used as a sole source of

these three rules: charge only 30% or less of

cashflow.

your limits, only charge pre-budgeted items and always pay on time.

Cash is King From a creditors view, there is nothing

Rhonda J. Williams’ personal mission is re-educating people to manage, multiply and maximize their resources. Ms. Williams is known affectionately as the “All Cash Queen” is a certified financial counselor.

GROW YOUR 20 | 2016 Edition | From A Woman’s Perspective Simple tips for small business owners, freelancers,

BUSINESS 8 POWERFUL BUSINESS STRATEGIES

independent contractors, sub-contractors and consultants

CERTIFICATION

REVENUE

Leverage your status with certifications from the Small Business Administration (SBA) as a Women Owned Small Business (WOSB), Economically Disadvantaged Women owned business (EDWOSB) or Veteran Owned Small Business (VOSB). If you are ready, you can also consider getting on the GSA schedule or with the 8(a) business development program. www.gsa.gov or www.sba.gov

Create multiple streams of income for your entrepreneurial initiatives. You can think of creative strategies to market your business with informational tools, which includes books, podcasts, training classes, and events to earn additional revenue stream for your business. www.women2contract.com

UE VEN E R PARTNER SHI PS

CONTR A C T ING

Market and promote your business on the following social media platforms: Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Twitter. Use a “social media management system” like “Hootsuite” to save time and make sure you select the platform that makes sense for your business target market. www.womengomobile.com NAICS CODES Know your NAICS codes! The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes are the most commonly used industry codes in the U.S. These codes categorize businesses by their industry types and are used by states, cities, and corporations for procurement programs. www.census.gov

TION TRA GIS RE

SOCIAL MEDIA

MARKETING G ETIN RK MA

Expand your business with strategic partnerships and alliances with others in business. Research your options for a General partnership, limited partnership or Joint Venture with another business. www.business.usa.gov

IA MED L A CI SO

PARTNERSHIPS

CERTIFI CAT ION

Market your business and share information by publishing Ezine Ezine articles in though Directories, writing a blog, newsletter or with public speaking. Integrate mobile marketing as a strategy to give your business visibility for mobile users. www.womengomobile.com

CONTRACTING

The Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) Federal Contract program authorizes contracting officers to set aside certain federal contracts for Women Owned and Disadvantaged Small Businesses. You can pursue contract opportunities as a Prime or a Subcontractor. www.sba.gov/womenowned

REGISTRATION

You have to register your business in the System for Award Management (SAM) to do business with the Federal government. Also, you should familiarize yourself with the registration processes required to do business with your local County, State and City agencies. www.sam.gov

N A I C S C ODE S

weop WOMEN’S ENTREPRENEURIAL OPPORTUNITY PROJECT, INC.

Coyright © 2015 www.weop.org | 404-681-2497

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From A Woman’s Perspective | 2016 Edition | 21

GREAT ONLINE RESOURCES The U.S. Small Business Administration’s special website

Knowing your rights and privileges, from tax right offs

for Women Owned Small Businesses provides a wealth

to choosing a financial plan, are how small businesses

of resources, online training and business tools for all

stay afloat in a fluctuating economy: www.sba.gov/

business sizes and types. www.sba.gov/content/

about-sba/sba_newsroom.

women-owned-busineesses

Your small business has a direct impact on your

Wells Fargo Works for Small Business provides videos,

community and peers. For the latest information,

articles and expert advice for business start-ups, growth

news, research, and happenings regarding women in

and development: You can also get help to manage

business bookmark www.uswcc.org.

and grow your business by comparing your business to competitors; mapping your competitors, customers and suppliers. The competitive Intelligence Tool can help you discover your business and how it compares to competitors. www.wellsfargoworks.com If you are a women owned small business (WOSB) you should consider certification. Visit the following site to learn everything about the certification process. www.sba.gov - this site is also jam packed with valuable information for small business owners.

CBS has unveiled a new digital property aimed at providing solutions for the issues small business owners face regularly. CBS Small Business Pulse is

If you live in Georgia and you are looking to start, grow and finance a business, you should visit www.georgia.org for small business resource information.

For more than a decade, the GCFLearnFree.org program has helped millions around the world learn the essential skills they need to live and work in the 21st century. www.gcflearnfree.org Career advice comes and goes, but sound and proven methods to reach your professional goals is priceless.

Alexandra Levit’s blog, AlexandraLevit.com, details the intricate nuances of tackling the professional world in 2014.

structured around six major categories that small

List your business online for free in business

business owners must address, regardless of industry.

directories: go to Google Places for Business and Bing

They include finance, human resources, legal,

at www.bingplaces.com

marketing, sales, and technology. cbspulse.com

Need a loan – Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE)

Launched in 2011, The Workshop at Macy’s is a retail

is a non-profit organization that provides loans and

vendor development program that aims to give high

business development resources to help borrowers

potential minority and women business owners the

create and grow sustainable businesses.

preparation to succeed in retail. In collaboration with

www.aceloans.org

the renowned entrepreneurial school Babson College,

Financial Education - The Women’s Institute for

the program was created to “foster growth in the next generation of minority and women-owned merchandise suppliers.” workshop.macysinc.com

Financial Education (WIFE.org) is the oldest non-profit organization dedicated to providing financial education to women in their quest for financial independence.

BusinessUSA, a centralized, one-stop platform to make

www.wife.org

it easier than ever for businesses to access services

An online platform featuring free budgeting tools,

to help them grow. An online site filled with great information to help support and grow your business. www.businessusa.gov

customized financial advice and cultural relevant content for Latino women. www.midineromifuturo.com

22 | 2016 Edition | From A Woman’s Perspective

special thank you We appreciate and acknowledge our Board, Sponsors, speakers, business experts, community stakeholders, and professional volunteers for their contributions, resources and business expertise in making our programming and services a SUCCESS. Sponsors & Supporters

WEOP Supporters

Event/Workshop Speakers

Volunteers

First Non-Profit Foundation Georgia Power Fifth Third Bank JE Dunn Construction Wells Fargo Grady Hospital Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta U.S. Small Business Administration Fulton County – Economic Development Division Moanica M. Caston – Georgia Power Cassius Butts – U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Tiffany Hollin Wright, Fifth Third Bank Dr. Sherry, Edge Empowerment Group, LLC Sheila Jordan – Knowledge Architects, LLC Teneshia Warner – Egami Consulting Stacey Y. Abrams – Georgia State Representative, 89th House District Elizabeth Williams – GMEN Vanda Echols – Access to Capital (ACE) Rosemarie Drake – SBA Yolanda White – Coca Cola Company Deshan Crayton – Cisco Systems Kevin Johnson – Georgia Power Todd Gray – Grady Health Systems Jewell Burks – Google Vickie Irwin, Georgia Power Mary Ellen Mc-Clanahan – Georgia Dept. of Economic Development Grethen Orrin – Athena Construction Group, Inc. Pamela Thompson Smith – Smith Ink, LLC Kimberly Griffin – DBE Consulting LLC Celest Turner – Growth By Celest Rholanda Stanberry – Fulton County Felton Williams – Dekalb County Government Carol Rogers – Clayton County Larry Scott – City of Atlanta Richard Case – City of Atlanta Ken Compton – Georgia Power Keisha Walker – Insights Marketing Martin Pratt – Social Media Influencer Marc Parham – CAPBuilder Network Alicia Redman – Alicia Redmond Studios Eboni Green – 20/20 Visionary, LLC Risco Ferdinand – MARTA Yaslynn Mack – The Mack Agency Dr. Danette O’Neal – Danette O’Neal Realtors, Inc. Ashley Peeples – The Mobile Mavens Erika M. Smith – Fulton County, Economic Development Division Jahari Soward, – Npursuit Career Partners Chrissy Wolfe – Dentons Ingrid Vanderveldt – EBW Paula Watts – 3Fed Solutions Karen Mills – Mills Law Associates, LLC Dr. Surina Jordan – Author Tonya Hicks – Power Solutions Crystal Khalil – Porsche Stacey & Roger Vaughn – D-Unity Group

Nneka Carter – Point University Rosalind Edochie – Encore Transpiration Connie Falls – EBW Charlotte Johnson – SBA Lola Kres – SBA Sherry Herbert – Black Enterprise Jewana Helmstetter – USDOT Maria Peck – ACE Thei Washington – WEI City of Atlanta Latasha Ball, Website Development Larry Dee Bennett, App Developer Irene Billingslea, Credit Management Sandra Poole, Event Management Tara Brown, Graphic Designer Juliett Charney, Event Management Eboni Green, Social Media Jackie Pittman, Event Management Jackie Marshall, Event Management Samona McKinley, Event Management Tanacha Gains, Technical Support Taneshia Marshall, Technical Support Desha Elliott, Social Media Anisha Chandra, Writer

WEOP Board of Directors Glenda Stinson, Board Chair Georgia Power

Cherelle Cortez J.E. Dunn Construction Brenda Faye Cornelius City of Atlanta Tina Douglas Cumulus Media Petrina Hall McDaniel Dentons

Joyce Rhodes Fulton County, Economic Development Division Theresa A. Schroeder Turner Construction Group Pamela Smith Smith Real Estate Tamika Wiggins AT&T

Magazine printing courtesy of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta. www..weop.org

From A Woman’s Perspective | 2016 Edition | 23

Surround yourself with only people who are going to lift you higher.

— Oprah Winfrey

Women’s Entrepreneurial Opportunity Project, Inc. Our Mission is to promote the economic advancement of women utilizing technology based solutions, educational resources, training and entrepreneurship opportunities.

A.B.O.V.E. A.B.O.V.E. Entrepreneurial Entrepreneurialtechnical technicalsupport supportand andtraining trainingclasses classesto tosupport support businessdevelopment developmentand andcontract contractopportunities. opportunities. business

Women2contract TECHNOLOGY Online portal WEOP’s utilizesproviding Women 2resources Contractand andinformation Women Goabout Mobile to contracting in public and thewith private sector marketplace. inform, educate and connect women globally online.

WomenGoMobile OPPORTUNITIES Information and guide women toward technology and Provides access toresources career andtobusiness opportunities with specialized mobile applications forstrategic businesspartnerships. and professional development. training initiatives and Visit Visitus usonline: online: www.weop.org www.weop.org www.women2contract.com www.womengomobile.com www.womengomobile.com www.women2contract.com Visit our websites and subscribe to the monthly newsletter.

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Monique Henley All Clean Janitorial Services LLC

Traci Williams Crescent Construction Services

Livia Cantrell CTMI Gear Box Repair

STRONG PARTNERSHIPS DELIVER CUSTOMER VALUE Our customers deserve the best we can give them. That’s why Georgia Power actively searches for companies like yours that deliver quality, reliable, competitively priced products and services. For more than 35 years, Georgia Power has worked diligently to develop small and diverse suppliers through contracting opportunities, mentoring and educational sponsorships.

To learn more, visit us at georgiapower.com/supplier-diversity today.

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