Wells Fargo showcased its dedication to empowering Black women entrepreneurs at the 2024 Woman Evolve Conference in Arlington, Texas, emphasizing financial education, mentorship, and access to capital. The bank hosted the “Purpose, Passion, and Business” showcase, featuring businesses supported by its $100,000 grant to the Start.Pivot.Grow. Accelerator, founded by Cynthia Nevels. This initiative provides tools for business growth, from financial education to access to grant capital.
Kristy Fercho, head of Diverse Segments, Representation and Inclusion (DSRI) at Wells Fargo, highlighted the company’s commitment to embedding DE&I into its operations to better serve diverse customer segments. Start.Pivot.Grow. participant Deana Young, founder of LifePlate, credited the program with helping her business thrive, while Monisha Edwards of Scent and Fire praised the funding for unlocking opportunities, including showcasing at the Essence Festival of Culture.
The Wells Fargo 2024 Impact of Women-Owned Businesses Report reveals Black women own 14.8% of all women-owned businesses, driving economic growth in their communities. Gigi Dixon, Wells Fargo’s head of External Engagement, said, “We’re here to ensure women entrepreneurs have the financial tools to succeed.”
Through partnerships like Woman Evolve, Wells Fargo is championing financial empowerment and fostering economic growth among women-owned businesses, which contribute $2.7 trillion in revenue annually to the U.S. economy.
