Oklahoma Native-owned enterprise creates alternatives for underserved communities

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) – Nestled in direction of the top of a historic block alongside Southwest twenty fifth Avenue within the Capitol Hill neighborhood of OKC, one modest constructing particularly could be straightforward to overlook.

However, day in and day trip, Kendra Clements is on the helm of We The Individuals Consulting, LLC, a 100% Native woman-owned, minority, and 2SLGBTQ+ operated firm devoted at serving to historically underserved communities develop.

Clements mentioned the title is an ode to the Preamble to the U.S. Structure, with an Oklahoma twist.

“We The Individuals is used all through our founding paperwork. Nevertheless, in our founding paperwork additionally there are references to cruel Indian savages and three/5 of a person. It was very intentional to be sure that We The Individuals actually meant … inclusive … fairness. It lies on the middle of the work that we do,” she continued.

“We communicate the languages of the communities that we work in [and] the greenback isn’t on the on the coronary heart of the work that we do, neither is a one measurement suits all,” she added.

“That’s the dedication that now we have is to our Black and brown communities [and] it’s type of who we’re at our core. We’re servants to our communities,” she continued.

However, the financial impression provides up.

In 2022, minority-owned companies produced greater than $316 billion {dollars} in income and supported practically 2 million U.S. jobs, in keeping with the Nationwide Minority Provider Growth Council, Inc.

Along with choices in enterprise, training, tradition and authorities, the group additionally presents Tradition Hub, a group connection middle with native partnerships, together with the Regional Meals Financial institution of Oklahoma and PeriodOKC.

We The Individuals, in enterprise since 2018, lately obtained the 8a certification from the U.S. Small Enterprise Administration (SBA).

Out of the 33.2 million small companies in america, solely 6,500 have achieved 8a certification.

Clements says the achievement is a “outstanding milestone” within the firm’s journey.

“This certification is a testomony to the arduous work and dedication of our group, in addition to the unwavering help of our valued shoppers and companions. With this milestone achieved, we’re desirous to leverage our 8a certification to forge new collaborations and proceed driving constructive change within the communities we serve,” she mentioned.