October 2022 Newsletter

May 28

Don't be scared...


FWD Newsletter: Oct 2022 - Insights, Features, & Opportunities	View in browser

Hey You. Yeah, You.

Don't be scared...

We have some great stuff to share with you to wrap up October and keep you motivated and ready to move FWD through the end of the year.

You already know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but did you also know it’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)?

At FWD, we recognize that meaningful diversity, equity, and inclusion is not a “black and white” discussion, and there are many complexities we collectively need to reflect on in order to avoid ableism and create psychologically safe, inclusive environments and workplaces. It takes effort and courage to acknowledge and consider all of these layers and educate ourselves. Without taking the time to do this, we run the risk of overlooking and stigmatizing broad categories of people who deserve to be seen and valued for their unique contributions.

Did you know that Americans with disabilities are still widely underrepresented as managers and professionals? Learn how you can celebrate NDEAM and be an ally – in October and throughout the year. Then see if you can guess any of these 1 5 famous entrepreneurs with disabilities.

What's Inside:

Speaking of being an ally...

We’re thrilled to share that the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging Report that we released in 2020 remains one of the most popular downloads on our website! (If you haven’t read it, download your copy here.) In the coming year, we’re planning to update these insights and introduce additional resources that are grounded in research and the experiences of the #FWDFamily and our partners and community, like you. Please let us know what tools could help you move FWD on your personal and professional allyship journey. Allyship is for everyone. [Click here to send me an email].

DEIB Report

This month, as we head deeper into Q4 and you start planning for 2023, we're also sharing:

The fintech tools every small business owner should know
How crowdfunding can give entrepreneurs a boost
How social media can help you land new job if you’ve been laid off

Plus, we have tips to help you stay ambitious without sacrificing your mental health, a guide to avoiding cultural appropriation this Halloween (in case you need it for a friend), and more.

I’m grateful for you and our entire FWD family!

With Gratitude,

Michael, FWD Founder

P.S. One more thing….if you’re looking for a little encouragement in this home stretch of the year, I’ve been enjoying a little inspiration from Brianna West on Instagram that’s been challenging me to keep life in perspective.

FWD Insights

Here’s some of the content we’ve been working on with you in mind:

Fintech Tools to Take Small Business Financial Planning to the Next Level

Entrepreneurial Financing: The Role of Community in Crowdfunding

October Reading List

Check out some of our favorite content from around the web, including a primer on male birth control – yes, you read that right. A post-Roe world needs male allies more than ever.

Let’s Talk About Halloween Costumes and Cultural Appropriation (from PBS)

How to Be Ambitious Without Sacrificing Your Mental Health (from TIME)

Finding a New Job via Social Media After a Layoff (from the SHRM)

Male Birth Control: What Are the Options? (from Natural Cycles)

Opportunities

If you have outstanding student loans, the U.S. Department of Education’s application for loan forgiveness is now live! Find out if you’re eligible and how to apply.