Entrepreneurship presents a challenging journey for individuals, particularly for those who identify as transgender or gender non-conforming. However, in the Bay Area, a dedicated community is committed to addressing this issue, with Devon Burton standing out as a prominent figure in this movement.
As a healer, Burton currently oversees an acupuncture clinic in Oakland’s Dimond District. Their objective is to expand their business in order to establish secure and comfortable environments for holistic healing, particularly catering to the trans and gender non-conforming community. Burton stated, “I’m trans, I’m black, and so many people in my community need the extra help.”
In pursuit of this objective, Burton has been selected to be part of an exclusive cohort that receives business coaching, mentorship, and a substantial $10,000 grant through the Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program (EAP). This program receives funding from the San Francisco Transgender District and the San Francisco Office of Economic and Workforce Development.
Sam Favela, the program director, has underscored the hurdles faced by entrepreneurs, especially those who are transgender or people of color. The EAP addresses these challenges by providing substantial support to help them thrive, bolstering their confidence and enabling them to realize their full potential.
Zeus Hines, a participant in a previous cohort, expressed profound gratitude for the existence of the program, emphasizing the significance of providing opportunities for business expansion for individuals like them. The collective strength and sense of community within the program serve as essential pillars of support for its participants.
Inspired by their involvement with the program, Burton is steadfast in their commitment to further expand their business in order to establish a safe and inclusive space where everyone feels comfortable and valued for who they are. They have stressed the crucial importance of enhancing accessibility and safety within the community spaces.
In conclusion, the nurturing of entrepreneurship within the transgender and gender non-conforming community is not solely about financial backing and business training; it also encompasses the creation of a sense of community and belonging. Programs such as the EAP provide indispensable support to individuals striving for success, empowering them to thrive. Through such initiatives, progress can be made towards a future where individuals of all genders and identities are afforded the opportunity to achieve success.