Historically, entrepreneurs have been at the forefront of every societal movement. With the entrepreneur’s inherent elasticity, we bounce back from major and unexpected disruptions in our daily lives, as exemplified by our response to the COVID-19 crisis. While others were fazed and paused, we took the lead, implementing better modes of operation in business to prioritize the needs of the people. In addition, we listen to our communities and respond accordingly to ensure that everyone has what they need to be happy, healthy, and unified.
Therefore, while entrepreneurs are spearheading the entrepreneurial revolution, it is not only for us but also for our entire global community. And yet, in the spirit of leveling the playing field to combat inequity, we must consider the populations who are the most in need of this revolution. Who benefits the most from a more humane world? Marginalized communities.
The Need for Immediate Support
The pandemic has revealed to us that those with the odds of success stacked against them—such as people of color, women, older people, and the youth—need immediate support in a way that we can no longer ignore. The entrepreneurial revolution can rectify these disparities and uplift those in need to shape a more decent, safe, and healthy society.
For instance, as stated in an article by the OECD, young people were among the hardest hit by the COVID-19 crisis. According to OECD data (2021), young people across Belgium, France, and the US were 30%–80% more likely to report symptoms of depression or anxiety than adults following the onset of the pandemic. Additionally, the blow of unemployment dealt to people ages 15–24 was significantly worse than their adult counterparts.
An Intersectional Lens
Furthermore, within the group of young people exist sub-groups of even more at-risk individuals, such as women, LGBTQ+ people, people of color, and people with a disability. For example, another OECD study on individuals in the UK and the US shows that, amidst the COVID-19 crisis, members of the LGBTQ+ community were twice as likely to report increased anxiety and depression than non-LGBTQ+ identifying people.
This tells us that we cannot focus on one marginalized group without zooming out and viewing these groups with an intersectional lens. By understanding the need for equity between all populations, we know that we must uplift those in our communities who need extra support to all stand on equal ground.
Conclusion
So, who is the entrepreneurial revolution for? Everyone, of course. But especially the disenfranchised. Our global community is composed of many sects and subsects of people. The entrepreneurial revolution is a surefire way to address these issues and lead the world into a better future that prioritizes people first.