Santino Jasso
Research Mentor(s): Ocie Irons
Mentor Department: Eastside Community Network
Authors: Santino Jasso, Dhriti Patel, Ocie Irons
Session: Session 3 (11:00am – 11:50am)
Presentation Type: Poster 37
Abstract
Starting a business and competing against large corporations is a daunting task that requires an exorbitant amount of courage. Small businesses create the culture and identity of a community, so it is necessary that people are encouraged to take such risks as much as possible. The Eastside Community Network is committed to supporting local entrepreneurs in their efforts to grow their businesses. The goal of this research project is to collect data on how these small business owners can best be supported by identifying what key areas of need are most prevalent. By gathering this information, the Eastside Community Network is able to direct resources into addressing the most important issues. We collected this data by curating a survey using Google Forms and emailing it directly to small business owners. In total, we have received 10 responses, with the most commonly identified areas of need being advertising and access to capital. These results indicate that it may be a productive use of ECN’s resources to invest in programming that helps small businesses grow their brand name and inform them about how they can apply for grants or loans. By making these changes, ECN will be able to more effectively complete their mission of growing the local community of the east side of Detroit.
