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M&F Bank and Optus Bank Announce Merger to Create Largest Black-Owned Bank
Let us put our moneys together; let us use our moneys; let us put our money out among ourselves, and reap the benefit ourselves. Let us have a bank that will take the nickels and turn them into dollars.” – Maggie Lena Walker, Founder of the St. Luke Penny Savings Bank (1901) Over 120 years […]
Economic Power in Motion: How Black Women Entrepreneurs Are Shaping America’s Future
Across the country, Black women are launching businesses at record rates, reshaping local economies and creating new pathways for future generations. This article highlights the stories behind that growth, featuring entrepreneurs who are building impactful businesses while navigating systemic barriers. It also explores how access to mentorship, training, and capital can unlock even greater economic […]
The $3 Trillion Opportunity: Why the Great Business Transfer Matters for Black and Brown Entrepreneurs.
At Vivian’s Door, we often talk about building businesses. But another opportunity is quietly emerging: buying the businesses that already exist. As millions of baby-boomer entrepreneurs prepare to retire, a historic transfer of businesses is underway. In this piece, we explore how that transition could reshape ownership and opportunity for the next generation […]
Why Support Isn’t Enough: The Access Gap Facing Women of Color in Business
Less Than 1% Funded, Yet Expected to Survive: The Reality for Women of Color in Business. As more businesses led by women of color quietly close, pause, or restructure, a deeper truth is emerging. This isn’t about a lack of support; it’s about a lack of access to the systems that sustain growth. From fashion […]
Tariffs Just Hit a Legal Wall — What the Supreme Court’s Ruling, Refunds and What it Means for Small Businesses (2026 Update)
For nearly a year, small businesses have been operating in a fog of trade uncertainty. Rising supply costs. Shifting tariff policies. Pricing instability made forecasting feel like guesswork. Take Mia, who owns a specialty packaging shop in Cleveland; this spring, her cardboard supplier hiked prices twice, and tariffs forced her to renegotiate every monthly order […]
The Season of Community: Why Supporting Local Businesses Matters More Than Ever
Small businesses, family-owned shops, and local entrepreneurs are the heartbeat of our neighborhoods. They nurture and invigorate the communities they call home, preserving traditions, creating opportunities, uplifting families, and driving our local economies. Supporting local this holiday season is more than a thoughtful gesture—it’s a direct investment in the people and stories who keep our […]
5 Holiday Marketing Moves to Help Small Businesses Grow and Build Community This Holiday Season
If you don’t give the market the story to talk about, they’ll define your story for you.” — David Ogilvy This holiday season, nearly 9 in 10 shoppers say they plan to buy from small businesses—but the ones they remember will be the ones that feel like home. Lights are going up, families are […]
Celebrate Black Business Month: 5 Simple Ways to Support Black Entrepreneurs
Supporting Black-owned businesses is a powerful way to positively impact our communities and help close the racial wealth gap. According to a 2019 report by the Federal Reserve, the median wealth of white families was $188,200, compared to just $24,100 for Black families. By supporting Black-owned businesses, we’re not just buying a product or […]
Unlocking Growth Strategies to Shift from Working in Your Business to Working on Your Business.
Do you feel like you’re stuck in the weeds, constantly putting out fires and handling day-to-day tasks? You dream of bigger things, of strategically growing your business, but feel bogged down by the daily grind. Don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here at Vivian’s Door, we help small business owners like you navigate through this common struggle. […]
5 Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Small Business Week
Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, representing innovation, creativity, and resilience. Small Business Week is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the economic contributions, income, and jobs created by these enterprises in our communities. Here are five meaningful ways you can show your support and appreciation during Small Business Week: 1. Shop Local, […]
