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StitchCrew is a local nonprofit that transforms minority women into business owners.
“StitchCrew is an organization founded in 2017 with the singular goal of building a more just economy through entrepreneurship,” said StitchCrew founder Erica Lucas.
Initially, the idea of supporting local entrepreneurs was not accepted. “When we first started Stitch Crew, people thought we were crazy. We heard a lot of things like, this isn’t real economic development,” Lucas said. .
But that negative thought only motivated Lucas. “When I heard the no, it just sparked my desire to go ahead and do it,” Lucas said. Her determination finally paid off. “The first team we voted for was the NBA team, the Oklahoma City Thunder. It had nothing to do with economic development or entrepreneurship, but they saw an opportunity to invest in the community.” Lucas said.
With Sander’s participation, Google became the second investor. “Google gave us a $50,000 grant in 2018,” Lucas said.
Big tech still trusts Oklahoma City nonprofit. “And this year they gave us an additional $65,000,” Lucas said.
The funds will specifically support the Cherokee Women’s Entrepreneurship and Latina Accelerator programs. “Here in Oklahoma City, Latinos make up 21 percent of the population and are our fastest growing demographic, as well as launching businesses faster than any other demographic,” Lucas said. he said.
Since its founding, StitchCrew has helped 211 minority businesses start up in Oklahoma City, providing personal mentoring and funding as well as a little encouragement when needed. “One day at a time, one step at a time, after a lot of no’s, you get a yes and that’s that little nudge to keep going,” Lucas said.
StitchCrew is currently recruiting for the Spring 2024 Accelerator Program. It is targeted at Latino Oklahomans, but is open to all minorities. To learn more about StitchCrew and all of its programs, please visit our website www.stitchcrew.com.
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