What is Canva?

Canva serves as a user-friendly alternative to the more complex functionalities of Photoshop and Illustrator. While I hold subscriptions to both, I find Canva's interface much easier to work with, allowing me to create quality materials comparable to those produced by Adobe. However, this isn't the main focus of my narrative.

A Recent Facebook Post

Earlier today, I shared a Facebook post fueled by frustration—not so much at myself, but at a system that feels fundamentally flawed. If you find yourself in a similar predicament, know that you are not alone. Conversely, if you are not experiencing these challenges, I hope you can appreciate that many individuals struggle to secure funding, and even when they do, it often falls short of their needs.

"Facing struggles is tough, particularly when you're attempting to manage business expenses without a steady stream of customers. Just a few minutes ago, I had to request a $12.95 loan to cover an automatic payment that failed to process. It's disheartening.

I realize that my advertising efforts are minimal. Sometimes, I simply forget to promote my work amidst my busy schedule, or I encounter restrictions in various groups that limit my promotional opportunities. It's disheartening to ask for loans, especially when grants often feel like a fruitless endeavor, given that many applicants don't meet the criteria due to insufficient income.

I dream of the day when I wake up to an email or phone call informing me that I have secured funding. Unfortunately, many friends and family members are either unable or unwilling to offer suggestions, as they too face their own challenges. I wouldn't dream of burdening anyone, especially those who have their own families and jobs. My frustration is directed toward those unfamiliar with my work, such as P. Lynne Designs or The Writing Cove.

Does my identity as a Black entrepreneur hinder my ability to earn a living? I hope I'm mistaken in that belief. Some of us aren't striving to become the next Amazon or Apple; we simply want to provide for ourselves and our families without relying on government assistance or facing judgment for our credit history. If our businesses grow into larger enterprises, that's wonderful, as it could enable us to help others achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.

I'm sharing this without expecting comments. I just need to express my feelings on a writing platform.

Backstory

In 2009, my aspiration was to launch a stationery business that focused on crafting scrapbook albums and cards, leveraging my background in crafting and marketing. However, the retail store where I worked imposed restrictions that prevented me from starting my business. I also held a position as an independent Home Consultant in direct selling, which allowed me to operate an online business. Unfortunately, my hours were cut from 35 to just 4 per week, which was not my choice due to managerial decisions.

I resigned without a clear idea of where my next income would come from. My earnings from direct selling were insufficient to support me entirely. This marked the beginning of my struggles, which only intensified with the pandemic in 2020.

Frustrations with the System

I prefer not to delve too deeply into race relations, but it's undeniable that minorities, particularly those in the African-American and Latino communities, face greater hurdles in securing funding. Women-owned and minority-owned businesses are often at a disadvantage due to their ownership status. In 2020, I applied for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) as a gig worker and received it. However, my state governor ended the Federal PUA prematurely, labeling us as lazy individuals unwilling to work. "Mr. Governor, I would much rather have customers than be lumped in with those who prefer handouts."

I have also applied for small business grants from the SBA, but I faced repeated denials, even after submitting my 2019 and 2020 tax returns. Larger corporations often overshadow smaller applicants, making it difficult to compete.

Despite the lifting of lockdowns, my sales have remained stagnant. I know better than to share this reality with customers or creditors; they should not have to bear this burden.

My desire is to have equal access to funding opportunities as any other small business. With adequate funding, I could expand, potentially securing an office space instead of working from home. While I appreciate the convenience of working from home, it sometimes leads to complacency, a realization I've come to over the past two years.

I dream of creating new jobs and serving as a nurturing ground for talent. Collaborating with others and hosting workshops in a community space is a vision I hold dear. There are numerous vacant properties in my area that could serve this purpose, providing more than just an art studio—a hub for writers, musicians, and creators of all kinds.

I prefer to repurpose existing buildings rather than construct new ones, unless the building is in such poor condition that it becomes uninhabitable. Although many suitable spaces exist downtown and in surrounding neighborhoods, the closest one is still a couple of blocks east of downtown, ideally situated near public transport.

To anyone reading this, understand that my frustration is directed solely at a broken system, not at individuals.

When I’m not immersed in writing, I work in graphic design. If you're interested in viewing my portfolio, please visit my website.

Watch this video for genuine tips on overcoming funding challenges faced by small businesses.