Equity in Business
The United States is facing a racial wealth gap that has existed for over 330 years. But at the same time, businesses run by systematically excluded communities of color (Asian-Indian, Asian-Pacific, Black, Hispanic, and Native American) still contribute nearly $400 billion to the U.S. economy, even though these communities face barriers to information, capital, and contracts. Hosted by the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC), this podcast channel explores how growing minority business enterprises (MBEs) is central to not only addressing the racial wealth gap but also creating a stronger, more resilient society for all.
Equity in Business
Ann Ramakumaran's Journey to Creating an Award-Winning IT and Staffing Business from the Ground Up
In this episode of the NMSDC Equity in Business Podcast, we feature Ann Ramakumaran, Founder and CEO of Ampcus Inc. A minority-owned company certified by NMSDC as an MBE and Corporate Plus member, Ampcus Inc., is a global IT and business staffing and consulting firm specializing in digital solutions and human capital management.
Ann is a visionary entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in designing, developing, and delivering cutting-edge technology and human capital solutions globally.
Starting her journey in 2004 from her basement with a one-year-old, Ann identified a unique business opportunity to help companies streamline their Business Solutions, Management, and Human Capital needs. She then created and executed a "one-stop shop" solution to help customers meet that need.
In this can't-miss episode, Ann shares her recipe for success as an MBE, including:
- 15 years of growth within the NMSDC ecosystem, where she built relationships with MBEs, customers, corporate partners, government agencies, and nonprofits.
- Curiosity about market needs as the foundation for her business strategy.
- Smart growth strategies through organic expansion and acquisitions.
- A focus on people, processes, and innovation in driving successful acquisitions.
- The power of diverse thinking, surrounding yourself with professionals with varied experiences and perspectives.
- The critical role of retooling and reskilling in ensuring business sustainability and growth.
Guest:
Ann Ramakumaran, Founder and CEO, Ampcus Inc.
Host and Production Specialist:
John G. Daniel is a believer, advocate for underserved communities, and published writer, with vast transformative leadership experience in the energy sector, economic development, hurricane recovery, and youth/community education and empowerment. Itoro Umontuen is the Editor of this project and is an award-winning photographer, reporter, and mixed-media journalist.
About the National Minority Supplier Development Council (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.
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