The Ecosystem Mapping Approach
The National Lead Hub of the Black Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub (BEKH) has initiated a study to map the Black entrepreneurial ecosystem across Canada. Led by Dr. Peter Pulsifer, an associate professor and the Associate Director of the Geomatics and Cartographic Research Centre (GCRC) at Carleton University, the goal of this mapping project is to create a clear picture of the network of organizations, individuals, and resources that collectively support Black entrepreneurship in the country.
In this context, an “ecosystem” refers to a network of different systems that helps businesses to grow. Dr. Pulsifer explains, “In this case, it's primarily Canada that nurtures and sustains entrepreneurship. So, when we're thinking about this kind of ecosystem, different from a biological ecosystem, the idea of a network is very important.” The ecosystem map is not just a static image; it’s an interactive website that includes a national network and geographic map of Black entrepreneurship in Canada. One of the challenges highlighted by the study is the fragmentation of information. Black entrepreneurs, policymakers, and stakeholders often struggle to find the information they need. The ecosystem map brings all this data together into one virtual place, making it easier to access and understand.
Visibility is a significant benefit of the ecosystem mapping program. It will enable Black-owned businesses to become more visible to potential clients, government contractors, and other stakeholders. It will also help Black entrepreneurs to identify opportunities, mentors, and resources. Deborah Allotey, the Ecosystem Mapping Coordinator, emphasizes the importance of this visibility, noting that many Black entrepreneurs often start out as solo entrepreneurs and need this information to build their business.
Community engagement is at the heart of the mapping project. The GCRC team works closely with the BEKH, community partners, and the Dream Legacy Foundation (DLF) to gather information from the Black entrepreneurial community. The data collection involves various methods, including online forms, surveys, and community interactions, all of which feed into the interactive website that will share the results of this research.
Visualization plays a crucial role in making this data understandable. Geographic maps are used to pinpoint the locations of various ecosystem members, while network visualizations reveal their relationships and connections.
In contemplating the implications of the ecosystem map, the BEKH envisions a substantial contribution to the broader understanding of Black entrepreneurial ecosystems and how to support Black entrepreneurs. The BEKH plans to identify gaps in Black entrepreneurship, highlight the industries Black entrepreneurs are historically involved in, and those sectors where their presence is scarce. Building a network that offers valuable resources and support can significantly boost the sustainability of Black-owned businesses, preventing many from failing within their first five years of operation.
By quantifying the economic impact of Black entrepreneurs in Canada, an important but previously unmeasured facet, the BEKH hopes to prompt the government to allocate more investments and resources for Black businesses. This approach entails gathering data on the number of Black entrepreneurs across different provinces and assessing their per capita contribution to the Canadian economy. Deborah says, “We’re hoping that the information will be the new currency to encourage Black entrepreneurs to be sustainable.”
Although still in the development stage, the interactive platform will be a pivotal tool for informed decision-making. Government agencies, business organizations, and community leaders can use it to craft tailored policies and initiatives that support Black entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurs interested in being apart of the program can contact the BEKH at knowledgehub@dreamlegacy.org.