ABOUT US

Our Mission and Values

MISSION The Table is a shared economy for businesses that advance the academic, economic and social development of underserved communities.

We Value:

● Integrity – We have a genuine interest in the advancement of traditionally marginalized communities. Our number one goal is to make sure our children and families receive the best services from a community of leaders who have their best interest in mind.

● Collaboration and Partnership – We break down silos between businesses in our communities in order to build a shared economy that is mutually beneficial to everyone.

● Perseverance and Commitment – Our children and families need consistency and commitment. During times of uncertainty, instead of being apathetic, we come together through our “think tanks” to solve problems and create action plans.

Our Why

At The Table, we understand that entrepreneurs from traditionally marginalized communities want to build and grow their businesses. They need access to resources and support services to survive and thrive.

In order to do that, you need a team of business professionals and resources to help your

business reach its full potential.

The problem is that there is a racial funding gap in the United States which impedes black

entrepreneurs from securing loans and other financial tools. We believe that all businesses

should have access to quality resources and tools to enable them to grow.

We understand; we don’t just talk about equity; we create opportunities for small business

owners to connect, build, and flourish.

Here’s how we do it:

1. Apply for membership

2. Assess your growth needs

3. Meet your match

4. Get your seat at the Table

Apply Now

THE TABLES CORE PRINCIPLES

Strategize how to collectively pursue funds together

Position and Prepare ourselves to receive the million-dollar contracts that are allocated for our community, which will redirect funding to the people in the community

Ujima - through collective work and responsibility we will barter services and decrease the value of money in our community

Ujamaa- Cooperative Economics: to build and maintain our own businesses, programs and profit from them together

Educate - we will teach and share best practices in the core areas needed to grow and sustain a business

Umoja - Unity: we will break the silos of small businesses, celebrate our success and grow together

MEET OUR TEAM

Katrena Perou
Founder/CEO

With an entrepreneurial spirit and relentless drive, Katrena has grown Inspiring Minds NYC from the ground up, raising over $5 million since 2019. She intimately understands the challenges of building a business from scratch—especially as a woman of color. Despite hearing countless "no's" when seeking funding, Katrena's perseverance and hard work have led to remarkable breakthroughs, proving that determination is key to success.

Recognizing how lonely the entrepreneurial journey can feel, Katrena founded The Table NYC, a supportive space she wished had existed when she started. This initiative empowers entrepreneurs and leaders to connect, share insights, and grow together.

Katrena’s career spans extensive experience in program management and executive leadership. She has contributed to renowned organizations such as Hamilton-Madison House, Groundwork Inc., CAMBA, and Urban Arts Partnership (UAP). At UAP, she led programs in 55 schools across NYC and LA and secured $2 million in funding for community schools and arts education.

Her groundbreaking work has earned her the 2024 Leadership and Excellence Award at the NYC Imagine Awards, standing out among 262 nonprofits for her innovative contributions to youth development and leadership pathways. Katrena has also received the Al Vann Legacy Award from Assembly Member Stefani Zinerman, was inducted into the Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame from her hometown Cleveland Heights, Ohio and much more!

Katrena holds a degree in Art Education from Penn State University and studied Nonprofit Management at Columbia University.