Welcome back to the Rise + Raise Podcast! In this episode, we explore the power of community in the Black business ecosystem with guest speaker Faizah Balogun. 🚀 Building a successful business isn't just about funding—it's about who's in your corner. Faizah shares how Black entrepreneurs can leverage networks, mentorship, and collaborative ecosystems to fuel their business growth and impact. Key topics covered: ✅ Why community is essential for Black women founders ✅ How to build meaningful connections that open doors ✅ The role of networks in accessing funding and opportunities 📢 Subscribe & hit the 🔔 to stay updated on future episodes! 💬 Join the conversation: How has your community supported your journey? Share in the comments! 🎙️ Brought to you in partnership with: ✨ Main Sponsor: BDC (@bdc_ca) ✨ Community Partners: 🔹 Black Entrepreneurs BC (@blackentrepreneursbc) 🔹 Black Advisory Hub (@blackadvisoryhub) 🔹 Osler (@osler_law) 🔹 Women's Equity Lab (@womensequitylab) 📌 Follow us for more: 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spring-is/  🔗 Website: www.spring.is 

Welcome to the Rise + Raise Podcast – your go-to source for insights on funding, finance, and scaling impact-driven businesses. In this premiere episode, we sit down with Jillisa Brown to break down the funding landscape, demystify financing options, and help you navigate the world of blended finance with confidence. Whether you're a founder seeking capital or a lender looking for innovative deal structures, this conversation is packed with actionable insights! Key topics covered: ✅ The biggest misconceptions about business funding ✅ Navigating grants, loans, and blended finance ✅ Tips for founders looking to secure capital 📢 Subscribe & hit the 🔔 to stay updated on future episodes! 💬 Join the conversation: What funding challenges have you faced? Drop your questions in the comments! 🎙️ Brought to you in partnership with: ✨ Key Sponsor: BDC (@bdc_ca) ✨ Community Partners: 🔹 Black Entrepreneurs BC (@blackentrepreneursbc) 🔹 Black Advisory Hub (@blackadvisoryhub) 🔹 Osler (@osler_law) 🔹 Women's Equity Lab (@womensequitylab) 📌 Follow us for more: 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spring-is/  🔗 Website: www.spring.is 

Welcome back to the Rise + Raise Podcast! In this episode, we have an inspiring conversation with Emily Mills, founder of How She Hustles, about the realities, challenges, and triumphs of Leading While Black. Black leaders and entrepreneurs navigate unique barriers in business, from funding access to representation. Emily shares her personal journey, insights on leadership, and how to build a thriving, supportive community while breaking barriers.   Key topics covered: ✅ The realities of Black leadership in business and entrepreneurship ✅ Overcoming barriers and advocating for representation ✅ Building networks that uplift and create opportunities   📢 Subscribe & hit the 🔔 to stay updated on future episodes! 💬 Join the conversation: What does leadership mean to you? Drop your thoughts in the comments! 🎙️ Brought to you in partnership with: ✨ Main Sponsor: BDC (@bdc_ca) ✨ Community Partners: 🔹 Black Entrepreneurs BC (@blackentrepreneursbc) 🔹 Black Advisory Hub (@blackadvisoryhub) 🔹 Osler (@osler_law) 🔹 Women's Equity Lab (@womensequitylab) 📌 Follow us for more: 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spring-is/  🔗 Website: www.spring.is