An Entrepreneurship Collective - Blank Slate MD

Our Mission

Blank Slate is an "open-concept" retail, event and class space designed for wom(x)n of color, to provide access to high-traffic brick & mortar retail space, business coaching & a continuously expanding network of wom(x)n business owners that sparks collaboration, grows confidence & ignites growth.

Here's the Issue:

Black women (specifically) represent 42% of new women-owned businesses; 3x more than their share of the population. Yet, black business owners who apply for funding have a rejection rate three times higher than that of their white counterparts.  Lack of access to funding, limits other opportunities that others are able to utilize to grow their businesses. This doesn't look or sound like a level playing field to us. 

In light of major conflicts, stemming from racial injustices, many big box stores are attempting to be more inclusive of small brands owned by black women; in the name of equality. The only problem with this - the majority of the small business that would love to take advantage of these opportunities, aren't in the financial position to do so. While equality in retail is a great gesture, equity across financing/funding options would serve the majority better.

How We Will Continue to Help

In May 2020, The Collective put this vision in motion after securing 1200 sqft of space and repurposing it as co-working, production, event and class space -- The Collective Studio. In October 2020, we expanded on this vision and secured an additional 1200 sqft and provided eight businesses the opportunity to grow and expand by offering private, dedicated suite space; The Collective Suites.

Although growth was amazing, we wanted and needed to do more to support the entrepreneur community. Thus, Blank Slate was envisioned and birthed. 

We are transforming a 3000+ sqft storefront into an "open concept" retail space -- that will allow small brands to "collectively" share in the growth and development of our fellow entrepreneur. Most of us do not have an extra $4,000 - $10,000 per month to secure our own retail location. But, The Collective found a way to minimize that retail overhead cost to less than $200 per month. 

While we are at it -- we will be launching our L.I.V.E. Youth Entrepreneurship Academy!

Other Offerings for Business Owners

While we will be offering retail space, we will also offer entrepreneurs monthly memberships that are inclusive of:

• Dedicated brand display in store and online
• Order fulfillment and inventory management of "in store stock"
• Storage and backed stock area
• Pop Up Shops
• In-house photography services & photography studio
• Co-working production space
• Stand alone branding and marketing
• Small business coaching and development
• Dedicated backend workspace
• Access to small business funding and grants

Why the Need for Funding

We want to be sure that we are providing an amazing experience for the brands that join us on this journey before we open our doors to customers. In order to get this space fully functional and programming in place -- we are in need of your help. 

The Crew

The Ladies behind The Collective:

• Co-Founders:
  • Taryn Ouzts
  • Stephanie Coles
• Operations Manager
  • Nicole Hubb
• Creative Director
  • Jolina Harris

Your Support

We would not be in the position to expand without the support that you have show us over the past 18 months. Your continued to support means everything to us! We are indebted to your faith in us and our vision. We canNOT wait to officially invite you all to Blank Slate's grand opening