Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Accessible Capital

Southern California Business Report with Hilda Kennedy, AmPac, Founder & CEO

Catch up with Hilda Kennedy, the visionary president and founder of AmPac Business Capital. With a relentless drive to empower entrepreneurs and uplift communities, Hilda has redefined the business financing landscape. Her passion, innovation, and unwavering dedication have made her a trailblazer in her industry, and in this exclusive interview, she shares insights, wisdom, and her compelling vision for the future.

Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Hilda Kennedy, the founder and CEO of AmPAC Business Capital, and uncover its pivotal role in empowering underserved entrepreneurs.

A Summary of the Southern California Business Report: Empowering Entrepreneurs with Hilda Kennedy

Welcome to this week’s edition of the Southern California Business Report, where we dive into the inspiring stories of thriving local businesses and the people driving them forward. Hosted by Yvette Walker, this show broadcasts live from the heart of Southern California, bringing insights and events to a community of over 25 million people.

In today’s episode, Yvette had the pleasure of speaking with Hilda Kennedy, the founder and CEO of AMPAC Business Capital, a nonprofit dedicated to providing financial support and resources for small businesses, especially those within underserved communities. Hilda’s journey is a testament to the power of determination and the impact of community-focused entrepreneurship.

A Journey of Dedication and Transformation

Hilda’s career began in economic development when she served as the Director of Economic Development for the City of Inglewood. One of her significant achievements was establishing a $45 million Section 108 Loan Fund to help local businesses thrive. However, her experience also highlighted the challenges faced by minority and women entrepreneurs in accessing capital, motivating her to create AMPAC as a certified development company.

“After years of working in the public sector, I realized my true passion was helping small businesses,” Hilda shared. “I wanted to provide the resources necessary for entrepreneurs to grow and succeed.”

Balancing Work and Family

As a mother of four, Hilda’s journey took a personal turn when she found herself commuting hours daily, often missing crucial moments in her children’s lives. Her decision to leave her job and start her own company allowed her to integrate her family into her business life, turning them into active participants in her entrepreneurial journey.

“I believe in work-life integration, not balance. My children grew up in the business environment, learning the ropes firsthand. They now have valuable experience and resumes that reflect their involvement in AMPAC,” Hilda explained.

Mission-Driven for Success

Hilda elaborated on AMPAC’s mission: “We finance and foster small business success from cradle to legacy. Our goal is to empower entrepreneurs to access the resources they need, regardless of the complexity of their situation. We’re relentlessly pursuing a ‘yes’ for every small business that reaches out to us.”

She highlighted the barriers many first-time entrepreneurs face, particularly those from underserved backgrounds, such as limited access to capital and lack of business acumen. AMPAC works to bridge these gaps through educational programs and hands-on support.

A Commitment to Community Growth

Hilda’s approach is underscored by her organization’s core values, encapsulated in GRIP—Grace, Relentless Know-How, Integrity, and Passion. This framework guides AMPAC’s interactions with entrepreneurs, ensuring they approach each partnership with compassion and expertise.

“Through our connecting faith and business initiatives, we create an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive and share their journeys,” Hilda noted, discussing AMPAC’s successful events that blend spirituality with business networking.

Innovative Financing Solutions

In addition to traditional SBA loans, AMPAC offers unique financial solutions such as Success Capital, which rewards businesses for timely payments and ongoing training. This innovative approach sets a favorable framework for businesses to manage their debt sustainably while fostering growth.

Hilda addressed the importance of distinguishing between fintech and traditional business loans, sharing caution about the high interest rates associated with the former. “While fintech options can provide quick capital, business owners must read the fine print and understand the long-term implications,” she advised.

Looking Ahead

Hilda is committed to continuing her work supporting small businesses, believing every entrepreneur deserves a fair shot at success. AMPAC’s upcoming Connecting Faith and Business Summit on October 17 aims to further this mission by bringing leaders together to share insights and encourage collaboration.

Thank you for joining us for today’s Southern California Business Report. Remember to support local businesses and continue nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in our communities!