Navigating the Path of Entrepreneurship

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• Inclusive Entrepreneurship

Starting a business is never easy, and for entrepreneurs of color, the journey is often filled with unique challenges. Bianca Jackson, founder of BrickRose Exchange, shares her journey, the hurdles she's faced, and her vision for a future where technology and innovation empower all entrepreneurs.

How My Entrepreneurial Journey Began

My entrepreneurial path began in an unexpected place-an introduction to virtual reality in 2016. At the time, I was leading a Pulitzer Prize-winning VR product, but starting BrickRose Exchange in 2018 brought its own set of challenges. The most defining moment came during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. We had just invested in a commercial building, relying on an in-person event model that collapsed overnight. In that critical period, I decided to pivot to virtual reality events, an uncertain and risky move that ultimately set the foundation for our future. It was then I truly understood that entrepreneurship is about resilience, adaptability, and unwavering belief in your vision, even when the circumstances seem impossible.

The Challenges Entrepreneurs of Color Encounter

One of the most significant challenges entrepreneurs of color encounter is access to capital. Securing financial resources can often feel like navigating an environment that doesn't completely trust or understand us. I experienced this firsthand, facing obstacles in funding despite my credentials and proven track record. This difficulty underlines the systemic barriers that exist-making it even more daunting for those without similar accolades.

The challenges go beyond funding; they extend to finding mentorship, forming partnerships, and uncovering growth opportunities that lead to sustainable development. Without these essential resources, many entrepreneurs of color struggle to scale their ventures or pivot effectively during times of crisis.

Leveraging Technology to Overcome Barriers

We are living in an extraordinary time of technological innovation, and tools like AI and VR can be game-changers for entrepreneurs of color. These technologies have the potential to democratize access to financial literacy, mentorship, and operational resources. At BrickRose Exchange, we leverage these tools within our X-Campus Entrepreneurial Hub, where AI-driven coaches guide users through real-time market analysis, financial planning, and business strategies. These resources empower entrepreneurs to confidently approach lenders and investors, better equipped and more prepared.

Moreover, AI and VR have the capacity to create culturally responsive spaces that bridge trust gaps and provide much-needed support for growth. This means that entrepreneurs not only receive tools and training but also feel seen, heard, and understood-an essential factor for building confidence and achieving long-term success.

Winning the Rise Challenge and Expanding Our Mission

I first learned about the Rise Challenge through Kirsten Barker at Cornell University. The opportunity to showcase how BrickRose Exchange leverages technology to create meaningful change was compelling. With our innovative approach and dedication, we were honored to take first place.

This achievement has fueled our mission to expand our community impact. We are forming strategic partnerships with mission-driven organizations and integrating AI and VR to boost awareness of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) for underrepresented founders. These partnerships enable us to sustain and scale our platform, ensuring continuous access to vital resources and support for entrepreneurs in underserved areas. Our roadmap includes rolling out more localized content and forging new alliances to bring X-Campus to additional regions, including international communities. By pushing the boundaries of what technology can do for marginalized communities, we're building a space where trust, opportunity, and entrepreneurship thrive.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For those considering starting their own business, my advice is to embrace adaptability and remain relentlessly curious. The entrepreneurial journey is filled with unexpected turns, and the most successful entrepreneurs are those who are willing to pivot when needed. I learned firsthand that sometimes you have to completely reshape your business model to not just survive but thrive. Build a strong network-don't do it alone. Seek out mentors, collaborate with others, and remain open to learning. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger, so trust yourself and stay true to your vision.

Looking Forward: Hope for the Future of Entrepreneurship

What gives me hope for the future is the growing accessibility of technology and the movement toward inclusivity and equity. We are seeing a surge of diverse voices stepping into the tech space, using innovation to solve long-overlooked challenges. The capacity for marginalized entrepreneurs to harness tools like AI and VR to reach global markets, build partnerships, and foster trust is revolutionizing the playing field. Initiatives like our X-Campus are examples of how technology can bridge the gap and build community. It's exciting to see how far we've come, and I'm optimistic that the next generation of entrepreneurs will keep pushing for a world where opportunity is not a privilege but a right for all.