WEPOWER Wednesday: Solidarity is the antidote
March 5, 2025
WEPOWER Wednesday: Solidarity is the Antidote

Friend,
As we transition from Black History Month to Women's History Month, it is a time to celebrate the trailblazing women who have shaped our past and continue to inspire our future. It’s also the season of local elections, Mardi Gras festivities, and most importantly, planting seeds of solidarity to blossom a new region nourished by love, justice, and a commitment to all of our residents. At WEPOWER, we believe meaningful conversations and shared experiences are at the heart of finding common ground in St. Louis.
Last week, nearly 200 St. Louisans came together at our events co-hosted with 21c Museum Hotel for the launch of an exciting partnership and a powerful discussion on the state of our economy – examining its successes and shortcomings and the power of reimagining an economy rooted in solidarity. The energy was palpable as we shared stories, listened with intention, and even laughed together as we plotted on building a stronger, more inclusive economy. Now, more than ever, it’s time to listen, learn, push, and be pushed. The future of St. Louis is in our hands, and we are determined to shape it in a way that works for everyone.
Join us as we continue this journey of exploration and collaboration. Through every event, every conversation, and every gathering, we move closer to a future where every person has the resources and opportunity to thrive. Together, let’s build a St. Louis that works for all.
CALLS TO ACTION
Join the Community Wealth Action Group (CWAG) on March 29th for brunch at our monthly meeting. CWAG is a coalition of STL and ESTL residents working to create thriving neighborhoods for all.

Join us and our partners on Thursday, March 20th, for the March PPAG Meeting. You will learn about resources and opportunities for childcare programs and help shape the direction of the ECE PPAG!

Join Saida for coffee to discuss your business, goals, and how WEPOWER can support you. This is an opportunity to learn about resources and opportunities to take your business to the next level.

UPDATES
Kiva Hub Re-Launches in St. Louis
In February, we relaunched our partnership with Kiva, an online platform offering zero-interest loans to marginalized communities across the U.S. At the event, entrepreneurs took free headshots, networked, and learned how Kiva can provide essential funding to help their businesses thrive.
If you're interested in applying for a Kiva loan, connect with Saida to learn more.
Together, we empower entrepreneurs and strengthen community growth.
Partnership With 21c Museum Hotel Launched Last Week
Last week, WEPOWER proudly launched a partnership with 21c Museum Hotel St. Louis to expand opportunities for locally-owned businesses.
Through the Curated Locally-Owned Biz Hotel Collection, 21c’s gift shop will feature a rotating selection of local entrepreneurs who have graduated from WEPOWER’s Biz Accelerator, providing increased visibility and access to new customers. These entrepreneurs include:
- Brock Seals, Art By Seals LLC
- Dr. Natalie King, Florae Beauty
- LaParis Hawkins, Tailored Pieces
- Reginald Quarles, Teatopia
- Tashara Earl, Shades of Color
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for the Build Black Wealth Happy Hour and Coffee Talks at 21c last week! Your presence, insights, and commitment to economic justice made these events truly impactful. We are grateful to be in a community with so many changemakers dedicated to building a more equitable future.
Charli Recognized by St. Louis Magazine
A special congratulations to WEPOWER’s own Charli Cooksey for being recognized in the inaugural edition of Saint Louis Magazine's Business 500! This prestigious list highlights the most influential, impactful, and innovative leaders in the St. Louis metro area, including both well-known executives and rising entrepreneurs across diverse industries. Charli's inclusion is a testament to her remarkable contributions and leadership in our community, and we couldn't be prouder of her achievements!
NEWS + OPPORTUNITIES
- Results for the March 4 Primary Mayor Elections for St. Louis City
- Check out the Minnesota Childcare Strike
- Join Founders Lounge Global on Thursday, March 6, at 5:30 PM
- Mark your calendars for the SLU eMentors Mini Pitch Night on March 18 at 5:30 PM
- The 2025 Arch Grants Startup Competition application window is open through March 31
INSPIRATION
This week, we’re reflecting on a powerful message from Slow Factory and New Economy Coalition about the role of the solidarity economy in resisting fascism and building a just future.
Fascism thrives on isolation, fear, and scarcity. The solidarity economy counters it with connection, collective power, and abundance. At WEPOWER, we know that true economic justice isn’t just about access; it’s about shifting power.
Economic solidarity is resistance. When we support Black-owned businesses, organize for economic policies that serve us all, and redistribute resources intentionally, we are actively countering the forces that seek to divide and oppress.
Want to take action? Join us at our March Community Wealth Action Group Meeting to be part of building a solidarity economy in St. Louis. RSVP here.
Source: @theslowfactory and @neweconomycoalition on Instagram




Let's keep building,
Your Friends at WEPOWER