FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 6, 2024
Contact NMSDC: Jered Weber
Communications and Engagement Manager
jered.weber@nmsdc.org
NMSDC-Certified Minority Business Owner Ronnette Meyers Provides Crucial Testimony on SBA 8(a) Program
WASHINGTON – The National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) commends Ronnette Meyers, president and CEO of JLAN Solutions, for her compelling testimony before the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship today. Meyers’ powerful account sheds light on the critical need for the Small Business Administration’s 8(a) program, while thoughtfully highlighting persistent challenges faced by minority and women entrepreneurs in accessing federal business programs and confronting racial discrimination in the industry.
In her testimony, Meyers shared her personal journey as an entrepreneur, highlighting the systemic barriers and biases encountered throughout her career, particularly within the 8(a) program. From facing overt discrimination in her previous government role to navigating partnerships fraught with bias and exploitation, Meyers courageously exposed the realities that hinder the success of minority-owned small businesses like JLAN Solutions.
“Ronnette Meyers’ testimony serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to address racial discrimination and inequities in federal business programs,” shared Ying McGuire, NMSDC CEO and president, adding, “Her unwavering commitment to overcoming adversity and advocating for change exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship and determination within the minority business community. Ms. Meyers’ testimony underscores the critical role of programs like the 8(a) program in providing essential opportunities for minority-owned businesses while also spotlighting the systemic challenges that persist.”
As NMSDC continues its mission to advance minority business enterprises (MBEs), it stands in solidarity with Ronnette Meyers and applauds her leadership in advocating for greater fairness and opportunity in federal contracting.
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About NMSDC
Founded in 1972, NMSDC is the longest-operating business growth engine for the broadest group of systematically excluded communities of color (Asian-Indian, Asian-Pacific, Black, Hispanic, and Native American), and our impact goes far beyond the supply chain. It’s about upward mobility for the emerging majority of Americans, an equal shot at participating in the American experiment of free-market capitalism and entrepreneurship. Our work is about correcting the unequal access to wealth-building opportunities. For more information, please visit nmsdc.org.
