Entrepreneurs building entrepreneurs: Echo's Deep End Fin-ancing the Future 2025 fundraiser

DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Echo is a nonprofit social enterprise dedicated to the philosophy of "entrepreneurs building entrepreneurs", a relationship-driven ecosystem where business owners mentor, support, and invest in each other.

This approach is at the heart of Echo's annual fundraiser, Deep End: Fin-ancing the Future, taking place on November 13 from 6:00-9:00 pm in Durham (112 Broadway St. Ste B).

The event invites the community to celebrate and support both small business owners and teen innovators shaping the region's future.

For ticket information, click here

Echo: Building an Equitable Future for Entrepreneurs in the Triangle

"The Triangle's economic momentum is undeniable -- driven by tech expansion, startup growth, and national recognition," says Echo CEO Anjanette Miller. "But the benefits aren't shared equitably. Entrepreneurs without wealth, capital, or networks remain excluded from the region's success. While small and Main Street businesses create the majority of new jobs in North Carolina, ownership is still far from reflective of the state's population."

The organization's data reveals disparities that support Miller's point. It states that fewer than 6% of businesses in North Carolina are Black-owned, despite Black residents constituting over 22% of the population. Latino-owned firms represent less than 10%, and women-led startups receive less than 10% of venture funding.

Echo is committed to breaking down the barriers of ownership. By fostering innovation and inclusivity, Echo strives to make the entrepreneurial dream accessible to all.

In the past 18 months alone, Echo has helped launch more than 30 small businesses and directly invested over $275,000 through grants, contracts, vendor payments, internships, stipends, scholarships, and awards.

To learn more about Echo and discover ways to get involved, visit echo-nc.org.