RSSAll Entries in the "Minority Owned" Category

Cindy Burke, Esq., Burke Law Group LLC

Cindy BurkeBurke Law Group, LLC. was created by Robert J. Burke II and Cindy Burke to provide legal assistance to the Hispanic community. “The focus of the company is Immigration Law, but we have found so many other aspects of law we can assist with, that we never turn anyone away from at least an initial consultation on any legal issues,” said Cindy. “Our belief is that the client works just as hard as we do for their money, and we charge fees that are sometimes 70-percent lower than most Immigration attorneys in our area.”

Cindy warmly welcomes people who are sometimes turned away from legal assistance, and this has garnered much respect in the community for her firm. Her goal is to make a difference in the community and she in fact does this on a daily basis, “We have become an integral part of the community, and very quickly everyone has learned who we are. The best part of offering my services to Central Falls is the fact that my parents have owned a night club there for over 28 years, and when they see me they ask if I am their daughter,” said Cindy. “I’m always proud to say I am, and the community knows we are trustworthy.”

Their firm is set apart by honesty, placing their clients’ needs in the forefront of their business policies. Cindy has received both a Mayor’s Citation from the City of Central Falls and certificates of congressional recognition for the outstanding impact she has made in the lives of people in Rhode Island.

Cindy most notably is a representative of those who are unable to advocate for themselves. “The work I put into building this empire is just starting, but it won’t end there. I intend on being the voice of Immigration, and the person that everyone in the Hispanic community knows,” said Cindy. Her plans are to continue to do the work that most will shy away from to make a difference in the lives of others.

Atabey Sánchez- Haiman, Giraffes and Robots

Atabey SanchezEntrepreneur, painter, and illustrator, Atabey Sánchez-Haiman is the owner and artist of Giraffes and Robots, art that makes you smile. Originally from Puerto Rico, Atabey graduated with a biology degree from Brown University. While working as a scientist and teacher, she began painting and illustrating on the side until ultimately quitting her day job to dedicate herself to art full time. She started Giraffes and Robots two and a half years ago. “I started my business as a way to share my passion for bright, happy, cheerful images that make people smile,” said Atabey.

Atabey started out selling her art on consignment and wholesale through other businesses including Stock, Craftland and Providence Picture Frame. She also sells at the Providence Artisan Market and the Providence Flea. “After two years of selling solely through other stores and art markets and having customers often ask where my store was located, I took the plunge and opened my studio/retail space at Hope Artiste Village. It has been so much fun to create a space where my customers can enjoy and purchase my work,” said Atabey.

The growth of her company is a testament to her ability to build and distinguish her brand while nourishing collaborations with local icons. Atabey’s unique and often locally inspired, playful work has been featured in numerous publications. Her illustrations of local landmarks, like the Superman building, are some of her most popular.

She attributes much of her success to Rhode Island, “My business is the kind of business that it is because I am in Rhode Island, a state which highly values art and individuality. I love how Rhode Island businesses help and support each other, which is why I often feature local businesses in my illustrations and also donate my art to raise funds for local schools and non-profits. There is so much that is unique in this State and it is so much fun to express that uniqueness through my artwork.”

Financial Issues Not Minor to Minority Business Owners

by Michael Brito

When a Minority Business Enterprise/Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (MBE/DBE) launches into a new year it needs to operate as if all things are possible! However, the only way to look at all possibilities is with a realistic approach. Businesses must ask questions that require honest answers, answers that may carry with them hard, eye-opening realizations. In terms of finances, how did we exit the previous year? Did we meet our goals? What do we need to do to make the horizon brighter in the coming year?

If you’re managing your businesses books alone, have them reviewed –now. If your financial future is less encouraging than last year, sit down with a small business financial consultant and be willing to take any recommendations under advisement. Remember that you’re not expected to be the expert in all areas of your business, especially regarding its finances.

A wise man always knows when to seek financial advice and it should be before you need to wave the white flag. If you’re in need of financial assistance as a MBE/DBE, there’s good news…there are more opportunities to obtain financial assistance in Rhode Island than some may think. Let’s look into all possibilities when seeking one-on-one mentoring, or any form of supportive services that are now offered either by governmental, quasi-government, or private companies and agencies. Finances don’t have to be an area of dread when viewing your business forecast!

Going forward let’s look into lowering our fixed operating costs by trimming things like bonuses, traveling and fuel costs, advertising that produces low ROI’s, needless gift giving, unproductive time usage, and single tasking employees! There are many ways to get more out of your staff, your time and yourself than you may realize! Think of ways to tighten scheduling, lower your insurance risk (thereby lowering your premiums), double or triple task employees, and how to get more out of your vehicle fleet. Many “mom and pop” enterprises very often see themselves as too small to matter but even the sole proprietor should know that when you run your small business as if it where a mega-corporation, success is much more possible!

Establish a strict budget and stay on course! Heed all spending caps that you set or have your accountant become a little more involved. Don’t run personal expenses through your business –ever! Always pay yourself first and live within your means. If you want to use any service or product your business offers then pay for it, you’ll only be cheating yourself in the long run if you don’t!

I will always remember my Dad paying at the cash register of his own store before leaving with anything, I thought it was odd as a child however, I completely get it as an adult business owner. You see financial issues don’t have to be “no man’s land” so stop thinking that you don’t posses the education, knowledge or background to understand the numbers; just focus, ask for help, put your business on a fiscal diet, and you’ll be prepared for any economic situation!

Governor Raimondo and Rhode Island Commerce Corporation Launch New Website Focused on Helping the Latino Business Community

PROVIDENCE, RI —As part of her economic development strategy, Governor Raimondo has charged the Commerce Corporation with the launch of a new website specifically for the Latino entrepreneur community –http://www.latinocommerceri.com.

The new website will be an online resource to strengthen and empower Latino entrepreneurs to grow their enterprises in Rhode Island. The website is supported by a network of successful Latino business owners who serve as mentors and advisors.

“My number one priority is to make it easier for companies to do business in Rhode Island,” said Governor Raimondo. “Our economy is energized by entrepreneurs from all backgrounds. I am excited to launch this initiative and website to help Latino businesses flourish in our state.”

“We need to ensure that all businesses have access to the support and resources they need to succeed,” said Rhode Island Secretary of Commerce Stefan Pryor. “The combination of our Commerce Corporation website, the new Latino Entrepreneurs website, and our recently launched Business Navigation Center will offer such access and will lead to such success.”

The website aims to connect entrepreneurs with resources and opportunities; foster mentorship, coaching, and role modeling; and share best practices and success stories within the community.

A launch event took place at Los Andes Restaurant in Providence – the wildly successful Peruvian and Bolivian restaurant started by Cesin Curi, a Latino entrepreneur. Mr. Curi is one of the four success stories currently featured on the website.

About Rhode Island Commerce Corporation
The Rhode Island Commerce Corporation is the full-service, official economic development organization for the state of Rhode Island. A quasi-public agency, the corporation serves as a government and community resource to help streamline the business expansion in, and relocation to, Rhode Island. The agency assists companies with commercial real estate, business financing, workforce training and other relevant issues.www.commerceri.com

 

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