DC small business owner struggling to get PPP funds during COVID crisis

Connect FM | May 25, 2020

The last two months have been some of the most difficult of Rahama Wright’s career. For 15 years, Wright has run Shea Yeleen, a beauty brand located in Washington, D.C. Birthed out of a passion to empower women in sub-Saharan Africa, her staff of five helps distribute shea butter products. In turn, they provide jobs for 800 women in Ghana. Since the pandemic started, she’s had to make drastic changes. “Now I’m trying figure out how to continue to run the businesses with about 80% of my revenue being slashed,” Wright said. Most of her business comes through sales from her stores – one on H Street and a kiosk at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. She also generated considerable revenue from a partnership with a resort. She’s since had to furlough all five of her staff and close her main storefront. She also applied for federal help.

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As a small business, keeping your finances separate from your personal is important for both banks and the IRS. Our Commercial Banking Manager has been asked a lot about what a business checking account entails, here are the answers to his top 4 questions asked.


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EBLUXE HAIR, A SMALL BUSINESS WITH A BIG HEART

EBLUXE HAIR | December 20, 2022

The generosity of one small business has warmed the hearts of many. This holiday season EBLUXE HAIR held their first annual "Nominate a Family in Need" campaign and was able to give back over $1,000 to those within their community. The gratitude we received was priceless, This is something we want to continue in the future, and with the support of sponsors and donations we can have an even greater impact next year. owner Tee Johnson. It is such a good feeling to be able to give back," added Johnson's daughter Sierra. "I know there are individuals who are struggling; it is truly liberating to know that we were able to make their holiday better.We commend this small business owner for their generosity and applaud them for having a giving spirit. Their act of kindness is a reminder of what the holidays are all about. EBLUXE HAIR & EBLUXE CARES The mother-daughter duo behind EBLUXE HAIR continues to provide consumers with Hair Extensions that are like no other and are of the highest caliber. Their recently founded non-profit EBLUXE CARES, is a 501c3 whose mission is to empower teens and cancer thrivers (those living with cancer) to rediscover what it means to live, while learning to celebrate and accept oneself completely.

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As a small business, keeping your finances separate from your personal is important for both banks and the IRS. Our Commercial Banking Manager has been asked a lot about what a business checking account entails, here are the answers to his top 4 questions asked.

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