From the Director

As we reflect on the Thanksgiving Holiday, there is much to be grateful for – today and every day. In celebrating the simple joys of life, we also recognize the hard work and unique opportunities on the horizon. Minority-owned firms represent a community that is composed of 5.8 million businesses that contribute over $1 trillion to the U.S. economy, and directly and indirectly creates 16 million jobs. MBDA is honored to partner with you in ushering in a new era where we will focus on supporting your ability to access global markets with your products and services. Our future lies in the global markets and we are going to help you get there!

Over the past two decades, the world has been shifting into an innovation economy. Fortunately, as President Obama has said, “Nobody does innovation better than America.” It’s not just our first-rate colleges and universities, though they certainly are a big part of it. It’s the American workforce. According to the President,“Nobody has a greater diversity of talent and ingenuity. No one’s workers or entrepreneurs are more driven or more daring.”

Talent, ingenuity, tenacity and a willingness to take risks. These are the same strengths I see as I travel around the country meeting with minority business owners; strengths that match up with the demands of today’s global economy.

Why is innovation so important?  We know it’s the key driver of competitiveness, wage and job growth, and long- term economic growth. We also know that it was Federal government investments in research, education, and infrastructure that made our economy competitive in the past. It was government’s support that paved the way for private sector growth and laid the foundation for American global leadership.

Mrs. Kimberly Marcus has joined the senior leadership team of MBDA as Associate Director for Legislative, Education and Intergovernmental Affairs. In this role, Mrs. Marcus will serve as the principal advisor on legislative and intergovernmental issues. She will also oversee the Agency’s relationships with federal, state and local elected officials and its advocacy and outreach strategies.

“Kimberly Marcus is well-suited for this position in light of her experience in corporate and community relations with a special emphasis on economic development and diversity. Her first-hand knowledge of the trials, tribulations and successes of being a business owner will also add to her effectiveness,” stated Hinson. “I am delighted Kimberly is going to share her talents with MBDA and look forward to her contributions.”

Prior to this appointment, Mrs. Marcus was National African American Outreach Director for the Democratic National Committee (DNC) where she worked diligently within the African American community to emphasize the importance of the African American vote. Marcus has also worked for the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, serving as Executive Director of its Public Policy Institute’s Government Relations office; and for the NAACP as Director of Economic Development. Even when Mrs. Marcus worked in the private sector at Strategic Research Institute and Bank of America, she was a champion for minorities and employees.

Today, I held a series of conference calls with MBDA staff and stakeholders to announce congressional approval of our proposal to realign our regional office structure.  This change will enhance the efficient delivery of funds and services to our mission critical programs—particularly, the MBDA Business Center grassroots network that interacts directly with minority business owners on a daily basis.