Supporting Charlotte’s Minority-Owned Businesses | Community News

## Charlotte Business Inclusion: The Minority Entrepreneur’s Best Friend

### A Lifeline for Minority-Owned Businesses in Charlotte

So, you’re in the business game, right? If you’re a minority entrepreneur in Charlotte wondering where to find a helping hand, your search ends here. The city’s [Charlotte Business Inclusion](https://www.charlottenc.gov/Growth-and-Development/CBI) program is waving a baton for anyone feeling a little lost. They’re here for you, providing mentorship and resources to get you back on the right track.

### Ada Esther Gil Jimenez’s Leap from IT to Construction

Let’s talk about Ada Esther Gil Jimenez. Raised on the rigorous handiwork of construction, with her father’s drywall business in her DNA, she initially pursued tech instead. From the Dominican Republic to the U.S. at age 14, Ada was a general contractor-in-the-making. Throughout her IT career, she excelled, but the [COVID-19](https://www.wcnc.com/coronavirus) pandemic turned her plans upside down. Financial strains mounted, but serendipitously, a nonprofit helped her secure a home. That’s when Ada had her “aha” moment: she embraced her inner contractor and launched [AEGJ Construction](https://aegjconstruction.com/).

### Facing the Fear of the Unknown

Creating a business? It’s daunting. “I was petrified. Why would I want to do this?” Ada said. With her father’s wisdom shadowing her steps, she nevertheless dove into unfamiliar waters. Internet searches on how to avoid going bankrupt illuminated her path to the city’s flagship program, Charlotte Business Inclusion.

### How Charlotte Business Inclusion Propelled AEGJ Construction

Like a lighthouse in a storm, the program helped Ada find her footing. She mastered skills from financial acumen to contract snaring. Projects at the Spectrum Center and [Charlotte Douglas International Airport](https://www.cltairport.com/) followed. Unwavering support from Charlotte’s business community bolstered her spirit. “They had to come together and say, ‘Hey, she hasn’t done a project at this scale before, but we’re going to back her up,’” Ada recalled.

### The Essential Role of Minority-Owned Businesses

Julius Edwards of Charlotte Business Inclusion speaks volumes on the essential role of minority-owned businesses. “Everybody plays a role, and everybody contributes to the economy—it’s second nature,” says Edwards. With [diversity programs](https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbessmallbusinesscouncil/2023/03/29/9-workplace-diversity-programs-that-inspire-change/?sh=5f5d9c5e4622) facing cuts, their efforts are indispensable. “Every day, we’re excited to do the work that we do,” he emphasizes.

### Need a Nudge? Here’s How to Connect

If you’re struggling or feeling isolated, program resources like these can be invaluable. Don’t sit on the sidelines. Reach out to Austin Walker at [awalker@wcnc.com](https://www.wcnc.com/article/money/minority-owned-business-boost-charlotte-nc-3-14-2025/mailto:awalker@wcnc.com?subject=Contact%20Us). Follow him on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AustinWalkerTV/), [X](https://twitter.com/AustinCWalker), and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/austinwalkertv/). Oh, and don’t forget to [Download WCNC+](https://www.wcnc.com/article/news/watch/stream-wcnc-charlotte-on-demand/275-e5449158-139a-44b9-a75d-5c7bce38f848) for pertinent news that impacts you.

In the table below, let’s highlight some key resources offered by Charlotte Business Inclusion:

The Takeaway: Don’t Go It Alone

You’ve got the dream; now grab the tools. Charlotte Business Inclusion is ready when you are—be part of a community that’s got your back.