In 2020, Williamson, Inc., in partnership with Visit Franklin and Urban Campus and Core, had a study conducted to address the needs of minority-owned businesses in Williamson County. As a result, Williamson, Inc. organized the Minority Business Academy using data from the study, which showed requests for support in five main areas. The five-part series features subject matter experts to discuss each topic monthly. These programs are open to all minority-owned businesses and are free to attend with lunch provided. However, attendance is limited to twenty-five  per session, and participants do not have to attend all five sessions to participate. 

Celestia Ware, who owns Farmers Insurance – Ware Agency, attended February’s finance course and said, “As a small business owner, the class today was powerful. The information shared pertaining to the Small Business Administration and from the banking/finance was paramount in the development for minority business owners. If you missed today’s meeting, then you missed a session with great information and resources available for your small business. My office will be participating in all of the sessions.”

Anna Lisa Roberts serves as  the director of talent and workforce development and spearheads the program at Williamson, Inc. “As the chamber of commerce and economic development agency of Williamson County, our job is to create jobs and support existing industry — including small businesses,” Anna said. “When we became aware of specific needs of minority business owners and professionals, we worked with partners and community members to create a thoughtful, intentional response to address some of these needs. The Minority Business Academy provides resources to traditionally under served populations in our business ecosystem. We are proud of this program, and we will continue to work to make sure that all businesses have the opportunity to thrive in Williamson County.”

The next session will take place on March 9th and will cover small business marketing. If you are interested in learning more about the Minority Business Academy or getting more involved with Williamson County’s Chamber of Commerce, please visit williamsonchamber.com.