Opening up shop
Professionals in finance, business and marketing will lead workshops at the Iowa Black Business Summit
By Matt Miller
Deborah Mobley knows what it’s like to go into uncharted territory. Mobley, a former executive in the mortgage-banking world, took a leap of faith to become a black business owner when she opened Perfect Choice Hair and Beauty Supply, 4301 Fleur Dr., in December 2007. Nearly three years later, Mobley says the rewards have been worth the risks, as her story and others have become the framework to encourage other black business owners to open shop.
“Being a black business owner in the community is great because your customers take a lot of pride in it,” said Mobley, whose business sells cosmetics, wigs, premium hair care products, styling tools and barber and stylists supplies aimed at a multicultural consumer base. “There are not many black business owners in the area so it means a lot.”
Recognizing the potential for more black business owners in Des Moines like Mobley, the Iowa Department of Economic Development (IDED), Iowa Department of Human Rights and Iowans for Social and Economic Development will sponsor the first-ever Iowa Black Business Summit on Sept. 24 and 25 at the Downtown Des Moines Marrio
tt. Full registration is $75, or $30 for the awards luncheon and $30 to attend the networking reception. All registration must be completed by Sept. 17. The summit will offer networking and learning opportunities for aspiring or existing business owners interested in entrepreneurship in Iowa.
“The goal of the summit is to gather those interested in entrepreneurship in Des Moines and statewide to take the next step in pursuing their goals of owning a business,” said Lori Young, marketing and compliance manager of the targeted small business program within the IDED. “Nothing is certain in our economy, so now is the right time to start a business.”
The two-day summit will feature 24 speakers focusing on evaluating business ideas, creating winning business plans, networking and whether to take the business to the next level. Liz Nead, a resident of Johnston and CEO of Nead Inspiration, will provide the opening address while Michelle Hoskins, founder and owner of Michele Foods Inc., will be the awards luncheon keynote speaker. Hoskins will share testimony on her struggles and success, which have resulted in a multi-million dollar company that produces Honey Crème Syrup, Butter Pecan Syrup and Maple Crème Syrup. Her syrups can be found in more than 10,000 food stores nationwide.
“We’re excited to have Michele because a lot of people can relate to her,” said Donna Lowery, program manager for the targeted small business within the IDED. “She has a real grassroots spirit story.”
While various black business summits and conferences are held statewide, the number of minority-owned businesses is still low. Lowery says this is largely due to credit issues and other financial situations.
One of those bucking the trend is Pam Patton, owner of Southern Drawl Catering Services in Des Moines. Patton’s catering business — which specializes in southern food — began in 2007, but really took off in 2008.
“I started cooking at a young age with my great grandmother, and many years later, my dreams have come true,” said Patton, whose business serves a 40-mile radius. “The key to our business’ success is using fresh ingredients to produce quality food.”
Patton, who serves as secretary for the African American Business Association, plans to turn the catering business into a restaurant early next year. She says she will attend the summit to learn about taking her business to greater heights.
“There’s room to improve our business or to start one up and that goal of the summit,” she said. “People should take that first step and dive right in. Des Moines doesn’t have a lot of black business owners, but there’s tremendous opportunities out there.” CV
