HARLEM, Manhattan (PIX11) — He’s known as a shark on “Shark Tank,” but now Daymond John is sharing his wisdom with budding entrepreneurs in Harlem.
It was a dream come true for Loretta Calderon to meet John. She started her business, LA Sweets NY, in 2017. It’s a successful bakery on Lenox Avenue.
From humble beginnings, John was born in Brooklyn and grew up in Hollis, Queens. He started a clothing company in his mom’s basement. Now, Fubu is an empire.
He has earned over $6 billion in global sales. Now, with the help of JPMorgan Chase, he’s teaching what he knows about crafting the perfect business pitch.
“Today is all about Black entrepreneurs, particularly in Harlem. They are the heartbeat of America,” said Nichol King, JPMorgan Chase executive director of community banking, northeast.
John partnered with JPMorgan Chase to help inspire new entrepreneurs to reach for the stars.
His biggest fan is Jessica Spaulding, the founder and CEO of Harlem Chocolate Factory. She said the most valuable part of the event was discussing strategies and practical ways to apply them.
John said his message for achieving financial success is simple: “65% of the wealthiest people are self-made. They started with, Why can’t it be you?”
Spaulding recently graduated from JPMorgan Chase’s Minority Entrepreneurship Program.
The initiative offers free coaching, technical assistance, and access to funding. For more information, visit their website.
