Founder's Spotlight: Empowering Diversity in Business

By AfriBlocks Network on December, 5 2023
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Founder's Spotlight: Empowering Diversity in Business
AfriBlocks Network
AfriBlocks Network

In the realm of modern business, fostering diversity and inclusion has emerged as an essential cornerstone for sustainable growth and innovation. Lesley Crane, a seasoned supplier diversity professional and the CEO of DiversiFind, embarked on her entrepreneurial journey driven by a vision to empower diverse suppliers traditionally underrepresented in business.. Her journey, rooted in a deep commitment to bridging the gap between diverse suppliers and potential partners, unveils a tale of resilience, strategic vision, and a fervent dedication to leveling the playing field within the business landscape.

Her tenure as the Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Administration highlighted the struggles faced by diverse suppliers in marketing themselves effectively to potential partners. "Diverse suppliers grapple with the challenge of being discovered by companies seeking to engage with them," Lesley notes. Recognizing this gap, DiversiFind emerged as a solution to bridge this disconnect between diverse suppliers and potential partners.

Building a Path for Growth

The exhilaration for Lesley lies in the potential of DiversiFind to foster the growth of diverse suppliers. By facilitating connections between these suppliers and their potential partners, the platform can be a catalyst for business expansion. "When diverse suppliers thrive, it's a win-win for everyone involved," Lesley emphasizes, highlighting the profound impact DiversiFind can make in the business landscape.

Trusting Instincts when Navigating Challenges in Team Growth

As with most startups, the challenges of raising capital and assembling the right team pose significant hurdles. Lesley reflects on the complexities of scaling a team, emphasizing the importance of trusting her instincts in making critical hiring decisions. "Trusting your instincts is pivotal," she advises, acknowledging the ambiguity entrepreneurs often face in determining the right hiring approach.

Prioritizing Technical Excellence and Expansion when Scaling 

Looking ahead, Lesley envisions bringing technical expertise in-house as a priority to enhance DiversiFind's platform functionality. She emphasizes the significance of iterating the platform continuously to meet evolving client needs. As the company aims to expand beyond its local and regional boundaries into a broader market, plans include hiring sales and administrative staff to support this growth trajectory.

Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Founders: Instincts, Partnerships, and Perseverance

Lesley shares valuable insights for aspiring founders, urging them to trust their instincts, seek thought partners who challenge perspectives, and remain resilient in the face of rejection. "It only takes one 'yes' to ignite your journey," she notes, highlighting the importance of perseverance in the entrepreneurial realm.

Connecting with DiversiFind

For those seeking to engage with DiversiFind, Lesley invites readers to connect through various social media platforms:

By expanding on Lesley's journey, DiversiFind's mission, challenges faced, scaling strategies, and insightful advice, this article provides a comprehensive understanding of her entrepreneurial endeavors and the impact of DiversiFind in fostering diversity and inclusion within the business landscape.

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