Shows
Small Biz Catalyst#50: A collection of lessons from the past year - Happy 1 year Small Biz CatalystSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilagun reflects on the first fifty episodes, celebrating the insights shared by guests and emphasizing the importance of cash flow, marketing, and community support for small businesses. The conversation covers essential strategies for business growth, including effective invoicing, negotiation tactics, understanding customer needs, and the significance of a strong online presence. Ayisat also shares valuable tips on grant applications, networking, and the importance of organization in managing a business. The episode concludes with a motivational message about the power of storytelling...2025-07-2922 minSmall Biz Catalyst#49: What you need to know about Economic Development as an EntrepreneurSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat Abilogun discusses the crucial role of economic development corporations (EDCs) in supporting small businesses and entrepreneurship. She emphasizes that economic development is fundamentally about people and highlights the various ways EDCs can assist entrepreneurs, including providing grants, real estate support, workforce training, and business navigation. The episode also covers the importance of connecting with local EDCs and the resources available to entrepreneurs, including upcoming grants and events.Resources: Texas Entrepreneur Ecosystem Summit: https://texasecosystem.or...2025-07-2213 minSmall Biz Catalyst#48: Start up to Success Series 1 - Siete Family FoodsSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat introduces the Startup to Success series, highlighting the journeys of entrepreneurs who have turned challenges into successful businesses. The episode features Veronica Garza of Siete Family Foods, who transformed her family's struggles with health into a thriving wellness brand. Ayisat emphasizes the importance of perseverance and encourages listeners to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. The episode also includes information about grant opportunities for small businesses in Texas.Resources:Amarillo Area Foundation:...2025-07-1504 minSmall Biz Catalyst#47: Spotlight on Grapevine, TX: A Small Business HavenSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat Abilogun introduces Grapevine, Texas, highlighting its charm, economic opportunities, and support for small businesses. The discussion covers the city's leadership, economic development initiatives, and available resources for entrepreneurs, including co-working spaces and funding opportunities. Ayisat also shares valuable grant information for small businesses, emphasizing the importance of community support and resources for growth.Resources:Grapevine, TX - Official Website | Official WebsiteGrowing Grapevine Podcast: Growing Grapevine Podcast - Apple Podcasts2025-07-0910 minSmall Biz Catalyst#46: Tribe & Triumph with Angela Seaman: How to Build Your Tribe and Leverage WBE CertificationSend us a textIn this episode, Ayisat Abilogun and Angela Seaman discuss the significance of Women Business Enterprise (WBE) certification for women entrepreneurs. They explore the certification process, debunk common myths, and emphasize the importance of building a supportive tribe. Angela shares her personal experiences and insights on how WBE certification has positively impacted her business revenue and the value of networking among women entrepreneurs.Grants & Resources:Jacobs Engineering Foundation Maximum Grant: $30,000Deadline: NONEC...2025-07-0228 minSmall Biz Catalyst#45: Tag a businessSend us a textHey Dear, If you're just joining us, this is Small Bis Catalyst. We want to invite you to our Tag a business team. Here's what you need to do. Nominate a small business of your choice, tag them on our website at smallbizcatalyst.org. That's small B-I-Z-C-A-T-A-L-Y-S-T dot O-R-G. Tell us your name, give us your email address, because that's how we'll be able to tell you if you're a winner or not. And then give us a website to a business of your choice. It cou...2025-06-0200 minSmall Biz Catalyst#44: Disruptive Leadership - Empowering Teams Through Disruption to create breakthroughsSend us a textSummaryIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun and guest Ted Santos delve into the concept of disruptive leadership. They discuss how leaders can intentionally create problems for their teams to foster innovation and growth. The conversation emphasizes the importance of navigating uncertainty, empowering teams, and transforming mindsets to achieve breakthroughs. Santos shares personal anecdotes and practical strategies for leaders to develop their teams and themselves in a rapidly changing business environment. The episode concludes with a grant announcement for small businesses.2025-05-2732 minSmall Biz Catalyst#43: Funding the dream: Navigating Texas Funding OpportunitiesSend us a textThis episode of Small Biz Catalyst delves into the funding landscape for Texas entrepreneurs, highlighting the state's position in venture capital, showcasing success stories of local startups, and providing insights into what investors seek. The conversation also explores alternative funding avenues such as grants and crowdfunding, while offering practical tips for engaging with Texas investors. The episode concludes with key takeaways and resources for entrepreneurs looking to navigate the funding landscape effectively.Resources - Grant:Ferguson - Ferguson Cares...2025-05-2016 minSmall Biz Catalyst#42: Why you need to understand Entrepreneur Ecosystem to grow your businessSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat Abilogun explores the concept of entrepreneurial ecosystems, emphasizing their importance for business growth and success. She discusses how these ecosystems provide essential support through networks of people, resources, and institutions. The episode also covers practical steps for entrepreneurs to engage with their local ecosystems and highlights a grant opportunity for youth development programs.Resources:Grants:Contact:grants@nbafoundation.comhttps://nbafoundation.nba.comMaximum Grant:...2025-05-1308 minSmall Biz Catalyst#41: How to create efficiency in your small business: unlocking the power of automationSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun explores how small business owners can automate up to 80% of their operations to increase efficiency and productivity. The conversation covers the importance of systemization, debunking myths about automation, leveraging tools like Zapier and CRM systems, streamlining scheduling, automating bookkeeping, and the role of virtual assistants. Ayisat also shares grant opportunities for small businesses, encouraging listeners to take actionable steps towards automation and efficiency.Grants & Resources:Thomas M., Helen McKee & John...2025-05-0618 minSmall Biz Catalyst#40: The Creator Economy for Entrepreneurs: Turn Your Voice into ValueSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun explores the creator economy and its significance for entrepreneurs. She discusses how small business owners can leverage their knowledge and skills to create content that drives visibility and authority, ultimately leading to monetization. Ayisat shares practical strategies for content creation and highlights various grant opportunities available for entrepreneurs.Grants & Resources:MENTOR Network Charitable Foundation - Stepping StonesMaximum Grant: not specifiedDeadline: NONEGuidelines and...2025-04-3012 minSmall Biz Catalyst#39: 3 key things a small business owner could do to find & retain good employeeSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun discusses the challenges small business owners face in retaining good employees. She emphasizes the importance of creating a positive work environment, offering growth opportunities, and providing competitive compensation. Ayisat also highlights the value of employee referrals and shares information about grant opportunities for small businesses, particularly in rural areas.Grants & Resources:Thomas M., Helen McKee & John P. Ryan FoundationMaximum Grant: $500,000Deadline:...2025-04-2212 minSmall Biz Catalyst#38: How to build your business creditSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun discusses the importance of establishing and maintaining business credit for small business owners. She emphasizes the need for businesses to have their own credit reputation, separate from personal credit, and outlines key steps to build business credit, including establishing a legal entity, opening a business bank account, and maintaining good relationships with financial institutions. The episode also highlights the significance of monitoring business credit and introduces grant opportunities available for small businesses.Grants & Resources:2025-04-1508 minSmall Biz Catalyst#37: The Entrepreneur's guide to Conquering FearSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat discusses the impact of fear on entrepreneurship, exploring how it can hinder success and offering strategies to overcome it. The conversation delves into different types of fear, including fear of failure, uncertainty, and rejection, and emphasizes the importance of taking action despite these fears. Ayisat shares personal experiences and insights from successful entrepreneurs to illustrate how fear can be transformed into a motivating force for growth and achievement.Grants & Resources:Foam Recycling...2025-04-0816 minSmall Biz Catalyst#36: Strategies for Small Business Owners to navigate InflationSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun discusses how small business owners can navigate the challenges posed by inflation. She shares personal anecdotes about inflation's impact over the years and provides actionable strategies for business resilience, including adjusting pricing, negotiating with suppliers, and enhancing operational efficiency. The episode concludes with information about grant opportunities for small businesses.Resources:Grant: Ryan FoundationMaximum Grant amount: $500,000 https://www.ryanfoundation.com/T...2025-04-0113 minSmall Biz Catalyst#35: Growing Grapevine: How the Christmas Capital of Texas invests in small business growthSend us a textIn this episode, Steven Jones from the Grapevine Economic Development Corporation discusses the vibrant small business culture in Grapevine, Texas, and how the city has strategically positioned itself as a tourist destination, particularly during the Christmas season. The conversation explores the role of podcasting in community engagement, the importance of maintaining a historic Main Street, and the collaborative efforts of local businesses to thrive. Stephen shares insights on attracting new businesses, the significance of low property taxes, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs....2025-03-2528 minSmall Biz Catalyst#34: 3 mindset strategies to transform your businessSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat Abilogun explores the significant impact of mindset on business growth. She discusses the differences between a growth mindset and a fixed mindset, emphasizing the importance of resilience and learning from setbacks. The episode also highlights successful entrepreneurs like Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, and Richard Branson, illustrating how their mindsets contributed to their success. Ayisat encourages listeners to prioritize time management, delegate tasks, and maintain a long-term perspective to foster growth in their businesses.Grant: Jobber2025-03-1818 minSmall Biz Catalyst#33: How to grow your business through the Chamber of CommerceSend us a textSummary: In this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat speaks with Ken Malcomson, president and CEO of the North Dallas Chamber of Commerce. They discuss the vital role of Chambers of Commerce in supporting small businesses, the benefits of membership, and the importance of community engagement and collaboration. Ken shares insights on how chambers can help businesses grow through networking, advocacy, and providing valuable information. He emphasizes the need for inclusivity and the effectiveness of being part of a chamber to enhance business opportunities. The conversation concludes...2025-03-1122 minSmall Biz Catalyst#32: Honoring Women’s Impact on History and InnovationSend us a textIn this episode, Ayisat Abilogun discusses the significance of Women's History Month and International Women's Day, exploring their origins, themes, and the contributions of women throughout history. The episode highlights the importance of these observances in promoting gender equality and women's empowerment, as well as celebrating notable women inventors. The episode concludes with a look ahead to the 2025 International Women's Day theme and a call to action for continued advocacy for women's rights.TakeawaysWomen's History Month began as Women's History Week...2025-03-0413 minSmall Biz Catalyst#31: How to grow your business revenue with Virtual AssistantsSend us a textSummaryIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat Abilogun discusses the importance of hiring a virtual assistant for business growth, especially for solopreneurs. She highlights the cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and diverse skill sets that virtual assistants offer. The episode also covers the benefits of delegating tasks to virtual assistants, allowing business owners to focus on strategic growth. Additionally, Ayisat shares information about grants available for entrepreneurs, providing valuable resources to support their business endeavors.TakeawaysVirtual assistants can...2025-02-2511 minSmall Biz Catalyst#30: How to become a government contractorSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat provides a comprehensive guide on how to become a government contractor. The discussion covers the essential steps needed to secure government contracts, including setting up a legal business, mastering proposal writing, and the importance of persistence. By following these steps, aspiring contractors can navigate the complexities of government contracting and find rewarding opportunities.Grants:Document Type: | Grants NoticeFunding Opportunity Number: | RDRUS-CC-2025Funding Opportunity Title: | Community Connect Grant Program...2025-02-1808 minSmall Biz Catalyst#29: All you ever need to know about Franchising with Matt FrenthewaySend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat Abilogun interviews Matt Franthaway, co-creator of Legends Boxing Franchising and a franchise consultant. They discuss the importance of franchising as a business growth tool, the journey into entrepreneurship, and the different models of business ownership. Matt shares insights on finding the right franchise, evaluating opportunities, understanding costs, and the steps to franchise one's own business. He emphasizes the need for resilience and adaptability in today's fast-changing business landscape.Resources: https://smallbizcatalyst.org/...2025-02-1124 minSmall Biz Catalyst#28: Celebrating Black History Month: A Deep DiveSend us a textThis episode of Small Biz Catalyst focuses on Black History Month, exploring its origins, significance, and impact on the economy, systemic inequalities, corporate responsibility, and government advocacy. The host, Ayisat, shares personal insights and highlights the importance of supporting black-owned businesses during this month, while also discussing the challenges faced by the black community in terms of wealth and opportunity.TakeawaysBlack History Month originated as a week-long celebration.It has evolved into a month-long recognition of African American contributions.The month...2025-02-0410 minSmall Biz Catalyst#27: Economic Recovery Corps: Building capacity in under-resourced or economically distressed places with Nathan OhleSend us a textNathan Ohle, CEO of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), discusses the innovative approach of the Economic Recovery Corps (ERC) program and its impact on economic development. The ERC program focuses on building capacity in under-resourced communities and cultivating the next generation of leaders. It provides tools, resources, and opportunities for entrepreneurs and small business owners to grow and thrive. The program aims to create long-term, sustainable change and drive inclusive and equitable economic outcomes. Collaboration and a willingness to fail are key principles for entrepreneurs and economic development organizations to succeed.2025-01-2822 minSmall Biz Catalyst#26: Corporate Transparency Act Requirement for small businesses - BOIRSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat discusses the Beneficial Owners Information (BOI) filing requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act. The conversation covers the importance of compliance, key dates for filing, who needs to file, exemptions, and a step-by-step guide on how to file a BOI report. Ayisat emphasizes the potential penalties for non-compliance and encourages listeners to share this crucial information with others in the business community.The Corporate Transparency Act requires certain types of U.S. and foreign entities to report beneficial ownership information to the Financial...2025-01-2216 minSmall Biz Catalyst#25: How to successfully apply for grants with Tracy IrbySend us a textIn this episode, host Ayisat Abilogun interviews Tracy Erby, the director of Texas Women's University and the Center for Women Entrepreneurship, about accessing grants for small businesses. Tracy shares valuable insights and tips on how to successfully apply for grants, including the importance of reading and following grant guidelines, avoiding common pitfalls, and highlighting the use of funds. She also provides information on grants currently available, such as the Start Her Grant, and emphasizes the importance of building a strong network and valuing customers. Overall, this episode offers actionable advice for small...2025-01-1423 minSmall Biz Catalyst#24: 5 essential tips to achieve steady growth and increase revenueSend us a textIn this episode, our host, Ayisat shares five essential tips for small business owners to achieve steady growth and increase revenue. The discussion covers the importance of separating personal and business finances, monitoring cash flow, building valuable affiliations, strategies for revenue growth, and establishing strong banking relationships. Additionally, Ayisat highlights grant opportunities available for small businesses, particularly in rural areas.TakeawaysSeparate personal and business expenses for clarity.Monitor cash flow to ensure business health.Networking is crucial for business growth.Invest in marketing to reach more...2025-01-0722 minSmall Biz Catalyst#23: Looking into 2025 - Happy New Year!Send us a textIn this episode of Small Bees Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun introduces the show and shares her extensive experience in entrepreneurship and economic development. She discusses upcoming changes to the show, including the introduction of grant opportunities and a focus on economic development organizations. Ayisat shares about a new series and emphasizes the importance of building an inclusive ecosystem to support entrepreneurs, particularly in Texas, to help them thrive and overcome the challenges faced by small businesses.Have a prosperous and joyous 2025 from the Small Biz Catalyst team.Happy...2024-12-3103 minSmall Biz Catalyst#22: Holiday Hope from Small Biz Catalyst TeamSend us a textIn this heartfelt holiday episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat reflects on the journey of the show and expresses gratitude to the audience and contributors. She shares her personal experience of navigating the holidays after the loss of her father, emphasizing the importance of courage and hope during difficult times. Ayisat encourages listeners to find solace and forgiveness, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles.TakeawaysThank you to everyone who contributed to the journey.Holidays can be difficult for those experiencing loss...2024-12-2404 minSmall Biz Catalyst#21: Unlocking Entrepreneurial Success: Insights from Small Biz CatalystSend us a textIn this special holiday episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat reflects on the top 20 episodes, sharing valuable insights and advice from past guests. The conversation covers essential topics such as navigating grant applications, the importance of organization in business, and the critical role of networking and community support for entrepreneurs. Listeners are encouraged to leverage available resources and build connections to foster business growth and sustainability.takeawaysEnsure you are a fit for the program you're applying to.Always ask for the full amount in grant...2024-12-2010 minSmall Biz Catalyst#20: Business Advice from Small Biz Catalyst's Guests from E1-E20Send us a textSummary:In this celebratory episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun reflects on the key lessons learned from past guests and episodes, emphasizing the importance of taking risks in entrepreneurship, understanding grants, embracing innovation, and the value of networking. The episode also highlights the significance of financial management and storytelling. She expresses gratitude to listeners and guests for their support.Takeaways:Take the leap of faith into entrepreneurship.Failure is a part of the journey; embrace it.Thoroughly read and understand grant applications...2024-12-1913 minSmall Biz Catalyst#19: How to make an impact & profit from the lens of a Social entrepreneur and teen-entrepreneur Jahkil JacksonSend us a textIn this episode, Ayisat Abilogun interviews Jahkil Jackson, a 17-year-old social entrepreneur and founder of Project I Am, which focuses on addressing homelessness through the distribution of blessing bags. The conversation explores Jahkil's journey into social entrepreneurship, the importance of networking, and the challenges of balancing business with being a teenager. Jahkil shares valuable lessons learned, the significance of giving back, and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing that age should not be a barrier to making a difference.TakeawaysSocial entrepreneurship can start at any age...2024-12-1019 minSmall Biz Catalyst#18: International Trade Strategies for Entrepreneurs: Unlocking Global Trade with Cynthia TraoreSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun speaks with global trade expert Cynthia Traore about the significance of global trade for economic development and entrepreneurship. They discuss how global trade can enhance business resilience, the importance of market research, and the need for strategic planning. Cynthia shares valuable insights on building relationships, networking, and utilizing various resources available for entrepreneurs looking to expand into global markets. The conversation emphasizes the importance of knowledge, compliance, and leveraging technology in today's global business landscape.TakeawaysGlobal...2024-12-0328 minSmall Biz Catalyst#17: AI Innovation and Entrepreneurship with Mo Collins - IEDC's Director of EntrepreneurshipSend us a textSummaryIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, Ayisat Abilogun speaks with Mo Collins, an industry leader in economic development and entrepreneurship. They discuss the critical importance of connections and networks for entrepreneurs, the underutilized resources available to them, and the transformative impact of second stage AI on business growth. Mo shares her insights on the current entrepreneurial landscape, emphasizing the opportunities for self-employment and community building. The conversation highlights the need for innovation and support within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, encouraging listeners to engage actively in their entrepreneurial journeys.2024-11-2619 min
Small Biz Catalyst#16: Celebrating Global Entrepreneurship Week with IEDC's Director of Entrepreneurship and ERC Fellow Carina Boston PinalesSend us a textIn this episode, Ayisat Abilogun hosts a panel discussion featuring Karina Boston Pinales and Mo Collins, focusing on Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW). They explore the significance of entrepreneurship in communities, the role of community organizers, and how individuals can get involved in GEW. The conversation emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in entrepreneurship, the value of small businesses, and the need for support and resources for aspiring entrepreneurs. The panelists share personal experiences and insights, encouraging listeners to take action and participate in their local entrepreneurial ecosystems.Takeaways...2024-11-2126 minSmall Biz Catalyst#15: How to Unlock Real Estate as an Income Growth ToolSend us a textTake the Survey to suggest future programs/guest: Survey | Small Biz CatalystIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun interviews Dayo, a successful real estate investor, who shares his journey into real estate, the lessons he learned, and the importance of location and partnerships in the industry. Dayo discusses various investment strategies, including cash out refinancing and DSCR loans, and emphasizes the significance of having a supportive network. He also shares success stories and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.Takeaways...2024-11-1931 minSmall Biz Catalyst#14: The Income Statement - How to Understand your Profit and Loss StatementSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst, host Ayisat Abilogun discusses the significance of the income statement, also known as the profit and loss statement. She emphasizes its role in providing insights into a business's financial health, including revenue, expenses, and profit margins. The conversation highlights the importance of regularly reviewing income statements for solopreneurs and small business owners to make informed decisions about pricing and operational efficiency. Ayisat also encourages listeners to reach out for resources to help create their financial statements.TakeawaysIf you're...2024-11-1205 minSmall Biz Catalyst#13: How to take a picture of your business - The Balance SheetSend us a textIn this episode, Ayisat Abilogun discusses the significance of balance sheets for small business owners. She explains how a balance sheet serves as a snapshot of a business's financial health, detailing its assets, liabilities, and shareholder equity. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these components to make informed financial decisions and improve business management.TakeawaysA balance sheet is essential for small business owners.It provides a snapshot of a business's financial health.Understanding assets, liabilities, and equity is crucial.Balance sheets help in...2024-11-0509 minSmall Biz Catalyst#12: Your Voice MattersSend us a textTake the Small Biz Catalyst SurveyIn this episode, Ayisat invites you to share your thoughts and insights. Your voice matters.Resources:Small Biz Catalyst Podcast: Driving Economic Change Through Innovation | Small Biz CatalystYouTube: @SmallBizCatalyst-b2hInstagram: @SmallBizCatalystX: SBizCatalysthttps://youtu.be/MtHl2MbpPbY?si=BmAhgf2KcMEI4vurTake the survey: Survey | Small Biz CatalystTag a Business: Tag a Business | Small Biz CatalystSupport the show2024-10-2903 minSmall Biz Catalyst#11: Understanding your business Cash FlowSend us a textIn this episode, Ayisat delves into the critical topic of cash flow for business owners. She explains what cash flow is, its importance, and how it is calculated. Ayisat covers the three segments of cash flow: operations, investing, and financing, and emphasizes the significance of understanding cash flow for making informed business decisions. Ayisat also clarifies the difference between revenue and cash flow, and shares insights on free cash flow, providing a comprehensive overview of financial management for businesses.TakeawaysBusiness owners must proactively understand...2024-10-2217 minSmall Biz Catalyst#10: Navigating Business Growth - Collection of Advice from Experts in a variety of fieldsSend us a textIn this episode of Small Biz Catalyst host, Ayisat Abilagun, reflects on the first ten episodes, celebrating the insights shared by guests and emphasizing the importance of community support for small businesses. The conversation covers key strategies for growth, including effective cash flow management, marketing, and understanding customer needs. Ayisat also discusses the significance of networking, navigating grant applications, and the impact of storytelling in business. The episode concludes with a reminder that success can come at any stage in life, encouraging entrepreneurs to persevere.Takeaways...2024-10-1517 minSmall Biz Catalyst#9: How to use networking as a business growth toolSend us a textIn this episode, Ayisat shares valuable insights on the importance of networking for small business owners and highlights essential resources available to them. She recounts her personal experiences with networking, emphasizing the significance of connecting with the right organizations. Additionally, she provides practical advice on finding grants and utilizing local economic development organizations to support entrepreneurial growth.TakeawaysNetworking is crucial for small business success.Finding the right organization to network with is key.Utilize online platforms like Facebook for networking.Explore grants available for small businesses.YouTube...2024-10-0809 minSmall Biz Catalyst#8: How stories and affiliations can grow your revenue with The inventor of Flip Stick - Akeem ShannonSend us a textIn this conversation, Akeem Shannon shares his inspiring journey from losing a college scholarship to becoming a successful entrepreneur and inventor. He emphasizes the power of storytelling in personal and professional growth, the importance of building connections, and the role of economic development in supporting entrepreneurs. Akeem provides valuable insights on how to effectively tell stories that resonate with audiences and drive business success, while also offering advice for aspiring entrepreneurs to persevere through challenges and failures.Resources:Akeem Shannon Inspires | Shark Tank, Flipstik, Motivation, InspirationFlipstik...2024-10-0144 minSmall Biz Catalyst#7: How to increase financial productivity in your business - with Tosin Omotayo of OmotayoCPASend us a textIn this conversation, Ayisat Abilagun and Tosin Amatayo discuss the essential aspects of business organization, cash flow management, and the importance of maintaining clean financial statements for entrepreneurs. They emphasize the need for business owners to be organized, understand their financials, and the role of a CPA in supporting their business growth. The discussion also covers practical tips for managing finances effectively, including the separation of personal and business expenses, and the significance of keeping accurate records. The episode concludes with valuable advice for entrepreneurs on how to navigate their financial responsibilities and...2024-09-2430 minSmall Biz Catalyst#6: Strategies for Small Businesses to Ensure Sustainable Impact with Tarsha HearnsSend us a textIn this episode, Tarsha Hearns, Senior Director of Ecosystem at the DEC Network, discusses the impact of small businesses on local communities and the challenges they face. She highlights the importance of job creation, recycling money into the local economy, and access to capital. Tasha shares examples of small businesses in her ecosystem that have innovated to meet community needs, such as a transportation company providing affordable rides to job seekers. She recommends strategies for small businesses to ensure their impact is sustainable, including managing cash flow, maintaining good credit, and...2024-09-1729 minSmall Biz Catalyst#5: How to file the BOI Report - Corporate Transparency Act Requirement for small businessesSend us a textIn this episode, Ayisat discusses the BOIR (Beneficial Owners Information Report) reporting under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). She emphasizes the importance of small business owners being aware of and complying with this reporting requirement to avoid penalties. The CTA requires certain types of U.S. and foreign entities to report beneficial ownership information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Treasury.Ayisat provides step-by-step instructions on how to file the BOI report online, including the five sections that need to be c...2024-09-1009 minSmall Biz Catalyst#4: The Economic Recovery Corps: Empowering Entrepreneurs and Small Businesses with Nathan OhleSend us a textNathan Ohle, CEO of the International Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), discusses the innovative Economic Recovery Corps (ERC) program and its impact on economic development. The ERC program aims to build capacity in under-resourced communities and cultivate the next generation of leaders. It provides tools, resources, and opportunities for entrepreneurs and small business owners to grow and thrive. The program also promotes collaboration and knowledge-sharing among fellows and host organizations. The ripple effects of the ERC program are expected to be profound, driving inclusive and equitable economic outcomes in communities across the United States.2024-09-0322 minSmall Biz Catalyst#3: How to apply for grants successfully + grants offeringsSend us a textIn this episode, host Ayisat Abilogun interviews Tracy Erby, the director of Texas Women's University and the Center for Women Entrepreneurship, about accessing grants for small businesses. Tracy shares valuable insights and tips on how to successfully apply for grants, including the importance of reading and following grant guidelines, avoiding common pitfalls, and highlighting the use of funds. She also provides information on grants currently available, such as the Start Her Grant, and emphasizes the importance of building a strong network and valuing customers. Overall, this episode offers actionable advice for small business...2024-08-2723 minSmall Biz Catalyst#2: How to grow your small business revenueSend us a textDo you think you could hold your breath for one minute? Could you do it for two minutes? What about three minutes? I won't ask about four minutes because I believe it's scientifically proven that four minutes without oxygen to your brain, you could be dead. But for most of us, that's what we do to our business. We try to hold our breath for as long as we can when we don't monitor our cash flow. And what do I mean? The cash flow is the hair that your business breaths. Without...2024-08-2119 minSmall Biz Catalyst#1: Introducing Small Biz Catalyst PodcastSend us a textHello and welcome to Small Biz Catalyst. My name is Ayisat Abilogun and I am your host. I'm an Economic Recovery Core Fellow and the CEO of Financial Leadership Club of America. This show is for struggling small business owners who want to be able to earn a consistent six -figure salaries from their businesses and the economic development professionals who support them. Every week, we will delve into innovative strategies, success stories, and actionable insights to empower small businesses as catalyst for economic resilience. We will bring in knowledgeable guests who can...2024-08-1301 minSmall Biz CatalystSmall Biz Catalyst - Podcast IntroSend us a textHello and welcome to Small Biz Catalysts. This show is for struggling small business owners who want to be able to earn a consistent 6 figure salary from their businesses and the economic development professionals who support them. Join us as we delve into innovative strategies, success stories and actionable insights to empower small businesses as catalysts for economic resilience. Whether you're interested in community development, economic policy or entrepreneurship, this podcast offers valuable insights and inspiration. I am your host Ayisat Abilogun. I am an Ec...2024-07-1901 min
Stand Up & Stand OutEpisode #9: Budgeting and Managing Your Finances As A College Graduate with Ayisat AbilogunIn this week's episode, Nikki has a very special guest, Ayisat Abilogun is going to tell us about her mission to help future generations with their finances and their budgeting skills, basically all you need to be successful in this capitalized world, right? From a very particular start as an accountant all the way to teach her method around the country, she is one more example of how you can apply your uniqueness in countless ways to build the life you want. Find out more about Ayisat at: https://abilogun.com/ Find out more about Ni...2021-07-0720 min