Obama's Fundraising Plan Can Work For Business!

Barack Obama's campaign for President of the United States has shown that the African-American community has money. Although individual donations have been small (average donation is $96), they've added-up. His campaign has also shown that the community can raise millions when motivated by a compelling cause. A cause that might positively change the course of its history. The community's support is a major reason Obama set a record for primary campaign fundraising (over $300 million).

Obama's strategy for raising money (compelling cause, small donations and the Internet) could also be adapted by communities to help achieve their economic potential. An informed community would welcome Direct Public Offerings (DPO) as opportunities to support the compelling cause of growing responsible businesses. Through DPO's entrepreneurs could raise money by selling shares of ownership directly to the public. Individuals could become shareholders for as little as $100; and multiple-state registrations would expand the potential base of investors.

Supporting a compelling cause by investing small amounts through a DPO is not new to the Black community. The first regulated DPO by an African- American company occurred in 1919. The company was a shipping line that sold equity shares to the African-American community. The offering was based on $5 per share (can be as low as $1 per share) and the company raised $500,000 to purchase its first four ships. The company was named the Black Star Line and it was founded by Marcus Garvey.

Most people think DPO's are too good to be true; and they can be if you don't plan. To be the cornerstone of an economic advancement program, individuals must be prepared to utilize or support these offerings. We recommend that you select one of the following options to request a program introduction. Participating should be a fun, gratifying and financially rewarding experience!

• Prepare to support these plans by learning how to join or organize an investment club. Club members pool their money and keep investment amounts small. Request a FREE e-mail introduction through our service link: Investment Clubs.



• Entrepreneurs should request a FREE e-mail program introduction through our service link: Small Business Finance. We can help to install this permanent in-house component for raising money. Startups and profit-challenged businesses are encouraged to participate.