WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES FACED BY BLACK ENTREPRENEURS AND HOW EFFECTIVE IS THE COMMUNITY- BASED MODEL JET IN MEETING THEIR NEEDS?

Sanaa Smith

Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation

College: College of Business and Public Management

Major: BS.MANAGEMNT-GENBUS

Faculty Research Mentor: Nurse, Saran  

Abstract:

This research explores how the JET Community helps support Black entrepreneurs using a community-based model called “For Us by Us.” The study looks at the problems many Black businesses owners face, such as racism, lack of money, limited training, and fewer networking2 opportunities. It also focuses on possible solutions and ways to fix these problems in real and practical ways. The paper looks at how JET’s model works and compares it to two other programs: the African American Chamber of Commerce (AACC) and the New Jersey EconomicDevelopment Authority (NJEDA). By looking at all three, the goal is to find the best way to support Black-owned businesses. The study also shows what makes JET different— how it was built by and for the Black community, offering trust, cultural understanding, and a strong supportsystem. It explains how programs like AACC and NJEDA can offer strong funding and business tools but may miss some of the personal support and cultural connection JET provides. Improved support systems benefit individual business owners while also strengthening and empowering the communities they serve. In the end, this paper hopes to create a plan that mixes the best parts ofall three programs to help more Black businesses grow, thrive, and stay successful over time.