BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — Dozens of aspiring business owners flock to WEDI's workshops for insight on how to access WEDI's CDFI loan program, how to build their business, and of course, how to network. I did.
Children's book author Cheryl Jones told 7 News reporter Yosern Persson that she wants to establish her own comic book business.
“I love the concept of this program. I'm so glad I came,” Jones says.
Jones said she faced a dead end in getting information on how to get started.
However, she is happy to have come to the WEDI workshop on Tuesday.
“We heard everything from all the restaurant owners here, how they started their business, and how WEDI helps them with rent and supplies,” she explains. . “They provide tutoring support.”
Carolyn Welch, executive director of WEDI, said the organization helps people establish trust.
“We help businesses get started and stay in business,” Welch says. “Our ultimate goal is to make it worthwhile to go to the bank and get a bigger loan to build our business.
People like pastor Jason Whitaker are looking to expand their ministry with the help of WEDI.
He also says that through WEDI he is seeing the diversity of small and medium-sized businesses that continue to grow.
“You see the diversity that reflects our city. I think anyone who is willing and able can definitely come here,” he says. “And look at how WEDI allows you to leverage them wherever you are.”
Natalie Zolamal, owner of Malkia & Co. Gourmet.
You can find her inside the West Side Bazaar at 1432 Niagara Street.
She says she is grateful for an organization like WEDI and the opportunity to start her business there.
However, she wants people to remember that starting a business is not easy.
“First, you need to make sure this is what you want. Reach out first and ask any questions you have,” she says. “And most importantly, be consistent in what you want. Starting is not easy.
WEDI is looking for additional businesses to fill some of these vacant spaces within the Niagara Street Bazaar.
“We are currently looking for more retail to fill the ground floor, so we have some vacancies with direct access to the website,” Welch says. “And the requirement is that you don’t have an established business.”
Click here to apply.
