Yva Jourdan Foundation

Introduction

Hello, and thank you for taking a moment to read our story. We are the Yva Jourdan Foundation, the nonprofit arm of HerSuiteSpot, and we're on a mission to empower and uplift women including women of color entrepreneurs. We believe that when women thrive, communities flourish, and that's why we're reaching out to you today.

The Challenge

Women are blazing a trail as the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the business world. From 2014 to 2019, the number of businesses owned by Black women grew by 50%, representing the highest growth rate of any female demographic. However, they also face unique challenges, particularly when it comes to scaling their businesses. The obstacles they encounter are often more daunting than those faced by their counterparts, from access to capital to opportunities for growth.

The Decline in DEI Funding

In recent years, there has been a significant reduction in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) funding. Major companies eliminated grants and aid directed at businesses owned by Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. More than 40% of such programs from 2023 have ended or become inactive, with another 27% removing race as a criterion. This shift is influenced by a new legal climate, particularly after the Supreme Court’s rejection of college affirmative-action programs.

Our Solution

Since 2017, we've been working tirelessly to bridge this gap. Through the HerRise MicroGrant Fund, we provide critical support to women small business owners. These microgrants are more than just financial assistance; they're a lifeline, an opportunity, and a chance to break down barriers. Recipients have used these grants to purchase computers, invest in equipment, create marketing materials, and develop their online presence. The impact is tangible and transformative. We provide grants through our HerRise PitchFest competitions, and each month we select a grant recipient and announce the winner at our monthly First Friday Mixer.

Your Opportunity to Make a Difference

Now, we're reaching out to you, our community, to join us in this journey. Your support can empower women including women of color entrepreneurs to access coaching, connect with a vibrant community of like-minded individuals, and secure the capital they need to take their businesses to the next level. With your donation, you become a part of their success story.

Conclusion

By donating to the HerRise MicroGrant Fund, you're not just supporting a business; you're supporting dreams, aspirations, and the potential for real change. Together, we can help women entrepreneurs overcome obstacles, achieve their goals, and contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.

Join us in this mission today. Your contribution matters, and together, we can create a brighter, more equitable tomorrow.