New Orleans-based Fund 17 is dedicated to supporting the city’s micro-entrepreneurs throughout its 17 wards. The non-profit recently conducted a study of the 7th and 8th wards designed to identify and understand the home-based entrepreneurs in the area.
On October 26, Fund 17 is hosting “Drinks & Data,” a networking event that will provide attendees with the opportunity to hear more about the organization and its research. RSVP for free before October 18 to reserve your sport.
“Informal enterprise is a culturally and economically significant tradition in New Orleans neighborhoods, but often this activity is hidden behind the larger entrepreneurial renaissance occurring across the city.” said Haley Burns, founder and executive director of Fund 17. “We hope our research will start a conversation about inclusive and equitable entrepreneurship.”
Fund 17 hopes the research project, which is part of a larger project with Forward Cities, will bring attention to New Orleans’ micro-entrepreneurs who have an impact on the city’s economy.
“If we empower the caterers, gardeners, artists and hair stylists, we support income for community members and their families while also maintaining the tradition and culture that is vital to our city’s urban fabric,” shared Burns.