The Haitian Business Association of The Eastern Shore Inc. and the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a workshop for local Haitian entrepreneurs in Salisbury. With over 25 Haitian businesses in the area, the need for such an association was evident. The goal of the HBA is to educate, network, and employ the Haitian community by connecting them to resources like the Chamber of Commerce.
During the workshop, participants learned about gaining access to capital, grant opportunities, and technical support. The Haitian business owners face unique challenges, with language barriers being one of the biggest obstacles. Initiatives like the workshop and the presence of resources like Maryland Capital Enterprises help address these needs and support the community.
Maryland Capital Enterprises (MCE), a nonprofit organization, has allocated $150,000 in funding to provide loans ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 for Haitian business owners on the shore. By building trust within the community and showing that resources are available to support them, organizations like MCE aim to make it easier for Haitian entrepreneurs to achieve their goals and vision for their businesses.
For many of these entrepreneurs, starting a business is about more than just being their own boss. It offers them a new sense of freedom, allowing them to better provide for their families, become more independent, and achieve financial freedom. Organizations like MCE offer technical assistance, counseling
