Studies show that capital can be hard to find, especially for women and minorities. During National Black Business Month, we want to recognize the positive impact of supporting black women. Their dedication, talent, and positivity inspire us. For small business owner Jac’Quay Martin, inspiration comes from helping others.
“I always loved making women feel beautiful,” she said. “I felt that if you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good, you do good.”
Jac’Quay dreamed of owning a full-service hair salon. Though she had a successful corporate job and lacked entrepreneurial experience, she took a leap of faith and quit her job to open Kink’d Hair Boutique in 2016. The business provided virgin hair for wholesale and individual customers, but she was determined to make her salon dreams come true. To do that, she needed working capital.
Jac’Quay found LiftFund online while researching her lending options. She received a $7,000 LiftFund microloan for inventory and equipment, which allowed her to add makeup and nails services at the store.
Today, Jac’Quay’s salon employs three stylists, and she expects to hire two more by 2019. She has also expanded the Kink’d Hair brand to include two successful online boutiques. She hopes to eventually franchise the business, and empower other women to believe in their business dreams.
“I’m proud of the fact that I never gave up. It’s only been two years, but I’ve accomplished so much,” she said. “If it wasn’t for LiftFund, [success] wouldn’t have happened for me, but now that I’m here, I plan to help others find success.”
As a black woman, Jac’Quay is part of the fastest growing segment of small business owners who are achieving their dreams.
Click to learn more about inspiring black women business owners or the challenges for women in entrepreneurship.
