Inspiring Entrepreneurs Episode 9: Vermont Professionals of Color Network

Inspiring Entrepreneurs: The Podcast

We meet the Vermont Professionals of Color Network (VT PoC) in Episode 9 of "Inspiring Entrepreneurs: The Live Show.” VT PoC Co-founder and Co-executive Director, co-founder Tinotenda Charles Rutanhira, “Tino”, introduces their mission and activities which aim to improve the experience, representation, and success of BIPOC professionals and entrepreneurs in Vermont.

VT PoC works to create opportunities for economic advancement within the BIPOC community through programming in key areas: networking, professional development, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment. They hold networking events, both virtual and in-person, to foster community and belonging among BIPOC Vermonters. These events are crucial for enabling connections and support systems that are often missing for marginalized groups.

Professional development is another major focus, with initiatives such as job boards and civic engagement portals designed to enhance career growth and leadership opportunities. The entrepreneurship pillar supports BIPOC business owners by providing technical assistance, helping with grant and loan applications, and maintaining a business directory of more than 400 BIPOC-owned businesses in Vermont.

This episode also discusses the challenges faced by BIPOC entrepreneurs, such as access to capital, business basics, and the care economy, and how VT PoC addresses these issues through surveys, listening sessions, and advocacy. We also talk about their new initiative, Newcomer Nexus, to support BIPOC folks relocate to Vermont through their employers enrolled in the program.

Resources Mentioned

1. Vermont Professionals of Color Network (VT PoC): vtpoc.net
2. Job Board - platform for job opportunities targeting BIPOC talent: vtpoc.net/jobs-board
3. Business Directory- searchable directory of BIPOC-owned businesses in Vermont: vtpoc.net/bipoc-business-directory
4. VT PoC/CNPP survey & listening session report: vtsbdc.org/vtsmallbusassessment
5. Newcomer Nexus Program - program to help BIPOC individuals relocating to Vermont integrate and thrive: vtpoc.net/about/our-work/newcomer-nexus

To find more resources and additional Inspiring Entrepreneurs episodes, please visit the Vermont Small Business Development Center’s website: vtbdc.org.

This show is made possible by the Community Navigator Pilot Program funded in part through a grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the SBA.