Making History: Our Incredible Journey with Techstars Accelerator Program
They say that history is made by those who dare to dream, those who are willing to take the leap and face challenges head-on. As a black female co-founder of CModel, my journey through the Techstars Accelerator program in Tulsa has been nothing short of a historic adventure. In the heart of a city known for its rich history, I found myself not only learning invaluable lessons about business but also actively participating in the revitalization of 'Black Wall Street.' Standing at the crossroads of MLK and Reconciliation, I feel I can proudly walk back out of those accelerator doors and say, "I'm making history now." (can you picture my fistbump?)
Stepping into the Techstars Accelerator program, I was ready to absorb every piece of wisdom, guidance, and mentorship that came my way. I knew this was a unique opportunity to fine-tune our approach, gain insights into our strengths and weaknesses, and navigate the entrepreneurial landscape with the guidance of industry experts. And boy, did I learn!
From workshops on effective pitching to deep dives into market analysis, the program covered it all. The guidance from seasoned entrepreneurs, successful business leaders, and fellow ambitious founders was both enlightening and empowering at the same time. And I’ve got to say… There's something magical about being surrounded by a community that believes in your potential and encourages you to think beyond the ordinary.
Reinventing My Business Perspective
One of the most incredible aspects of my Techstars journey was the profound shift in our perspective. We thought we were doing some things right, some things wrong, and others completely wrong. But being part of the accelerator program gave us the insights needed to reevaluate and reinvigorate our approach.
"Every challenge is an opportunity in disguise," became my mantra. Failures were no longer setbacks; they were stepping stones toward success. Our mentors didn't just point out flaws; they helped us turn them into strengths. This transformative mindset shift not only impacted our business strategies but also my personal growth as an entrepreneur.
Rebuilding 'Black Wall Street'
Tulsa is a city with a resilient spirit, a place where history echoes through every street corner. And being part of the Techstars program in this city took on a deeper significance as I participated in the rebuilding of 'Black Wall Street.' This historic district, once a thriving hub of black-owned businesses, was tragically destroyed in the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Now, we have the opportunity to contribute to its revitalization.
Standing at the corner of MLK and Reconciliation, I felt the weight of history and the power of progress. Our startup wasn't just about business; it was about being a part of something larger than ourselves. As an under-represented founder, I felt a sense of duty to pave the way for others and honor the legacy of those who had come before me.
My Moment of History
There's a unique thrill in realizing that you're making history! It's not just about personal achievements; it's about contributing to a larger narrative of progress and change. As I navigated the twists and turns of the Techstars Accelerator program, the realization that I was part of something historic fueled my determination to succeed.
"I've just had my moment of making history," I often remind myself. It isn't a fleeting thought but a constant source of inspiration. Every challenge, every breakthrough, and every connection made during the program was a building block in the monument of my journey.
So as we’ve recently wrapped up our Tulsa journey, I’ll wrap up my thoughts today. I’m grateful. My experience with the Techstars Accelerator program in Tulsa has been an incredible journey of learning, growth, and making history. I've had the privilege of not only refining our business strategies but also participating in the revitalization of 'Black Wall Street.' Standing at the intersection of Reconciliation, I've come to understand that entrepreneurship isn't just about making profits; it's about shaping the future and leaving a legacy.
The lessons learned, the connections made, and the history woven into every step of this journey have shaped me into a more resilient, knowledgeable, and inspired entrepreneur. I invite you to join me in embracing challenges as opportunities, reinventing perspectives, and becoming part of a larger narrative of progress. As I continue to make history, I'm reminded that the path to success is marked by those who dare to dream, those who take bold steps, and those who leave an indelible mark on the world.
