KEY TAKEAWAYS

Access to capital consistently ranks as the top concern for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) entrepreneurs. Over the past three years, the National Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (National ACE) has conducted its AAPISTRONG Small Business Roundtable Series. This series brings together government officials, AAPI business owners, and community leaders to discuss the successes and struggles of AAPI business owners, support for the local minority business community, visions for economic growth, available resources, and advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The knowledge gathered from these events highlights that access to capital is the most significant barrier for AAPI entrepreneurs. Small business owners have reported substantial challenges in securing capital due to a lack of established relationships with financial institutions, insufficient credit history, and systemic biases.