Having access to funding is usually a significant problem for girls entrepreneurs, particularly for girls of shade. Research present that they obtain lower than one p.c of enterprise capital, with many counting on their very own funds to fund their entrepreneurial journeys.
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For JoAnn Emale, founding father of Maskee, a one-minute pitch at “Grind Fairly Fest: The Remix” in Houston modified every part.
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“Successful the $5,000 at Grind Fairly Fest is a game-changer,” mentioned Emale, who created a breathable, eco-friendly magnificence hood to forestall make-up switch onto clothes throughout outfit modifications. “I plan to reinvest it into increasing our product line, enhancing our advertising efforts, and enhancing our packaging.”
Emale was one in all practically 200 girls entrepreneurs and wonder influencers who attended the occasion, which was centered on empowerment and networking. The spotlight of the occasion was a $5,000 pitch competitors, sponsored by MyAvana, for the entrepreneur with essentially the most compelling pitch.
In an sudden twist, contestants got solely half-hour’ discover — and simply 60 seconds — to pitch their enterprise for the prospect to win the money prize. Eight contestants, representing quite a lot of professions together with senior residence care and wonder and haircare, rose to the problem, incorporating insights from MyAvana founder Candace Mitchell into their pitches.
Emale, who traveled from Arlington, TX, captured the judges’ consideration along with her groundbreaking innovation—the world’s first patent-pending and trademarked resolution for make-up switch.
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“My product, Maskee, was born from my private want to guard make-up whereas altering garments, particularly throughout pageants and occasions,” she mentioned. “As a former pageant queen, I struggled to discover a resolution to this drawback.”
Emale was one in all two winners, with one of many judges, often called The Tax Boss, stepping as much as give funds to a different model.
“Quite a lot of founders [struggle] to interrupt via and stand out when there’s a lot competitors,” mentioned Mimi Johnson, Grind Fairly founder. The Atlanta-based magnificence entrepreneur and superstar make-up artist created the platform and occasion to assist manufacturers entry sources and construct their companies.
Having partnered with shoppers resembling Angela Simmons and Hype Hair writer and wonder provide retailer proprietor Lia Jones, Johnson understands the facility of neighborhood.
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“There are numerous alternatives for girls founders,” she mentioned. “We have to transfer towards an area the place there’s extra collaboration.”
For extra info on Grind Fairly and its annual Fest, go to grindpretty.com.
