DIONNE JONES-JONES is an experienced business woman that has several irons in the entrepreneurial fire.  She has two magazines in virtual and print formats and has recently launched a business consulting service in May called Jade Solutions Unlimited, www.jadesolutionsunlimited.com.  This native of Guyana now resides in Atlanta and is in the process of constructing a mini-empire.

I’ve looked over your client list and it sounds like you really hit the ground running with this. Is your focus still on small to midsize businesses?  ‘Cause, to be honest, it seems like this could be pretty expensive.

I’m the kind of person who doesn’t put prices for services on my website.  I try to keep the door open to businesses of all sizes to tailor my work to their needs and, at times, my price.  If I see someone earnestly working to get their business going, offering a needed service (especially in our community) but struggling financially, I will ensure that I meet them halfway to ensure their effort isn’t cut short because of unaffordable startup services.

I’ve learned this firsthand.  One of my first experiences was instrumental in getting me where I am today.  I helped a local business get their initial promotion off the ground for free. I didn’t think of, or probably didn’t know, the influence the client had in the country I was in and I needed to build confidence in my designing skills.  The client loved it and was very grateful.  From that one thing I was able to get some of the largest companies in Trinidad and Barbados to be my clients.

It’s not always about getting all the money you can at the front end.  In my opinion, we need to see more sustainable Black businesses get off the ground and get their wings.  I’m happy to be a part of that process.