Our Impact
2023 Impact Report
The AYA Foundation, Colorado’s Black-led and Black-serving community foundation, fosters Business Success As A Path To Community Wealth and empowerment. In this report, we showcase our 2023 efforts to provide Black entrepreneurs with the essential tools and networks needed for prosperity.
Success Stories
When I started the journey of entrepreneurship in 2019, I always told myself that I would be open to exploring different avenues and things that could help me grow the business. I reached out [to the AYA Foundation] because I was told they have lots of resources available that could really help somebody like myself being a new entrepreneur.
All the programs and resources they’ve been able to provide have really helped my company and really helped push me forward. It’s been amazing for my business, Panoramic Pro Painting, and a huge resource and something I definitely wouldn’t be in the place I am today without.
Evan Simmons,
Panoramic Pro Painting
When I considered starting my business, Kindred Communications LLC, four years ago, one of my biggest worries was about the financial management side of things. I’m good with words, not necessarily numbers. In the spring of 2023, I had a chance to talk with Benny Samuels, Executive Director of AYA Foundation, and share about this aspect of my business that was not functioning as I needed it to. Benny listened and said she would find a way to help and that she did! Through grant funding, the AYA Foundation provides Kindred Communications a license to QuickBooks and a professional bookkeeper for one year. This has been very helpful in the organizing and scaling of my business and meets the exact need I expressed.
angelle fouther,
Kindred communications llc
Testimonials
The JumpStart my Biz program was so motivational, impactful, and educational. I connected with so many, learned so much, and feel more confident to be an entrepreneur.
Jumpstart My Biz Fall 2023 Participant
AYA Foundation has been and continues to be a critical component of my growth in building a good foundation for (my business). I am quite confident that I have all it takes to do this work but having a mentor and guide in AYA is essential to my ongoing growth and scale.
One-On-One Coaching Participant
I love the supportive connections, I love everyone’s belief in everyone’s capabilities, and I love the resources provided. It’s a very nourishing and nurturing environment.