Please stop saying “small” business

Don’t get me wrong—I love the sentiment behind supporting entrepreneurs, but I have a bone to pick with the word choice. Terminology isn't just semantics—it shapes perceptions and expectations.

Think about it. While ventures led by men are often glorified as “startups” poised for growth and innovation, businesses led by BIPOC founders are labeled as “small businesses.” 

In reality, there's no such thing as a small business, only businesses at different stages of growth. Let’s discard the limited notion of “small business” altogether. Every successful business—from Uber to Airbnb—started with an idea. The same potential exists in every entrepreneur and their company.

Each moment in a business’s journey, no matter how minor it may seem, is a step towards something greater. There are no small ideas, only moments of inception that lead to vast possibilities.

It's not about the size of the business; it's about the innovation, resilience, and grit of the people steering the ship. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or part of a tight-knit team, your vision and dedication are what define your journey. Move with integrity, fess up to your eff ups, and celebrate the little wins along the way.

I challenge us to move beyond limiting labels and to instead empower one another to recognize and cultivate the potential inherent in every business. Every business begins with the potential for greatness, regardless of the societal labels.

Now, go and be fabulous!