Denver Startup Founder Recognized as 3C Congressional Champion

Washington, DC (Sep. 26, 2022): Angel Johnson, the founder of ICONI in Denver, was recognized by the Connected Commerce Council (3C) as a Congressional Champion for her advocacy on Capitol Hill. Angel met with Sen. Bennet’s and Sen. Hickenlooper’s offices last week to discuss the importance of digital tools for startups and small businesses, and the need for Congress to make it easier for minority-owned businesses to access capital to grow their companies.

Digital platforms offer free and low-cost tools and services that help startups and small businesses find customers, sell their products, and grow. Those same tools became a “digital safety net” for minority-owned businesses during the pandemic when storefronts shuttered, and e-commerce, online advertising, and remote communications became even more critical. Research shows more than 80% of Black and Hispanic-owned businesses are optimistic about their future thanks to digital tools that are helping minority-led businesses unlock opportunities in order to succeed.

“I enjoyed meeting with both Sen. Bennet’s and Sen. Hickenlooper’s offices to discuss fostering a better business environment for minority entrepreneurs, and look forward to a continued dialogue,” said Angel.

Johnson was one of several minority entrepreneurs from around the country to meet with their elected representatives in Washington, D.C. in September.

“Affordable digital tools and access to capital are vital for any entrepreneur ready to launch their startup or small business,” said 3C Executive Director Rob Retzlaff. “It was important for lawmakers to hear directly from minority business owners on these crucial issues.”