The mission-driven entrepreneur teams up with Shopify to propel Black entrepreneurship and redefine economic equality.
In the ongoing fight for silver rights, John Hope Bryant stands out with a groundbreaking strategy. The CEO of Operation HOPE, in collaboration with Shopify, aims to establish one million Black businesses by 2030. Jabari Young from Forbes sat down with Bryant during the National Black Business Month to discuss the path ahead and the significance of this initiative.
America’s massive credit card debt showcases a gaping void in financial literacy, an area Bryant is passionate about. The march for jobs and freedom, spearheaded by legends like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., underscores the importance of economic freedom. Bryant believes that the present moment is historic, emphasizing the need for African-Americans to participate in this economic uplift.
Forbes has spotlighted prominent figures like Regal Lewis, who made groundbreaking deals. Bryant views financial literacy as the civil rights issue of our generation. The failure to pass on financial wisdom from one generation to another has kept communities in darkness.
Yet, there’s hope. Operation HOPE’s partnership with Shopify, a $130 million, 10-year initiative, is already bearing fruit. Over 330,000 Black businesses have been established, with many more on the horizon. The focus isn’t just on high-tech enterprises but also on everyday businesses like barbershops. The initiative employs technology to help businesses thrive even during off-hours.
Despite being ahead of schedule, Bryant emphasizes the broader economic implications of the project. A recent report from the City Group indicates that embracing Black businesses could contribute a whopping 16 trillion to the GDP.
Financial literacy is more than just understanding numbers. It’s about credibility. By equipping the next generation with the right tools and knowledge, we can rewrite the narrative. Building relationships, both in and out of the classroom, is crucial. As Bryant succinctly puts it: when your outflow exceeds your inflow, your overhead will indeed be your downfall.
Bryant draws inspiration from figures like Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. For aspiring entrepreneurs, his advice is simple: remain focused, value your time, and become comfortable in your own skin. After all, entrepreneurship is a journey of self-discovery
Source: Forbes – Jabari Young