Maxwell Frost: “I stand today to honor the rich history and unwavering resilience of Black small business owners during National…”

“I stand today to honor the rich history and unwavering resilience of Black small business owners during National Entrepreneurship Week. Mr. Speaker, 17 percent of Black-owned firms are family run, providing jobs for over 160,000 Americans. In my district, my constituent Nick Aiken, Jr., owns and operates Nikki's Place with his family in the vibrant community of Parramore in Orlando. For 25 years, Nikki's Place has been a hub for warm service and authentic and delicious soul food. Nonetheless, like so many small and minority-owned businesses, they have faced countless hurdles, specifically in securing affordable financing. All Nick, his family, and their 12 employees want to do is to continue to contribute to the vibrant culture of Orlando and what makes Orlando beautiful. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to work with me and ensure that we invest in small businesses like Nikki's Place to ensure they receive the investment and support they need to continue making amazing and beautiful communities like mine thrive. ____________________”