Bank initiative helping local Black and Hispanic business owners thrive [Video]

CLEVELAND — Getting a small business off the ground is no easy feat, and finding ways to keep it afloat can be even more challenging. However, there’s a local program that helps entrepreneurs in communities of color who find themselves facing financial roadblocks.

Statistics show Black and Hispanic small business owners had less liquid wealth in 2022, with just 5% of Black Americans holding some business equity compared to 15% of white Americans.

This creates a large barrier for those looking to grow their business.

On Good Morning Cleveland, we highlighted one of several programs in Northeast Ohio that are providing education and tools to help entrepreneurs in historically underserved neighborhoods in Cleveland manage and grow their businesses.

For one young woman with a dream, it’s making a big difference. 

Navigating the ups and downs of operating a small business proved challenging early on for artist Justine Johnson.

“You pour …