Doing Business with UpRys

Anthony McIntosh is the CEO of UpRys, a strategic group of business professionals dedicated to serving our communities by elevating organizations. Our MISSION is to elevate organizations through our people, process, and technology expertise. Our VALUES include the following:

• Community: We are committed to serving our community and helping area organizations grow. We proudly donate a percentage of our profits to area nonprofits to put toward their mission.

• Passion: We are passionate about our work that drives change and empowers organizations. We believe in helping others succeed and do so by driving positive outcomes.
• Teamwork: Teamwork allows creativity and opportunity to thrive. We encourage open-ended conversation, out-of-the- box ideas, and forward-thinking to drive our process.

• Integrity: We display respect and transparency in all our partner interactions. When faced with difficult decisions and hard choices, we do the right thing, even in the face of adversity.

Our SERVICES include Business Process Optimization and Employee of Record.

• Business Process Optimization (BPO): optimizes business processes with expert guidance and deliverable solutions

• Employee of Record (EOR): achieves contingent workforce continuity through a seamless client experience

Whether its supporting non-profits, who are focused on the most vulnerable, or serving small for-profit businesses, who represent the engine of economic impact, UpRys’ purpose is to empower organizations to create change that contributes to sustainable, thriving communities.

How does your business contribute to equity and inclusion in the business community?

UpRys contributes to equity and inclusion by living up to our core values. Our values ensure that Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Access (DEIA) is part of who we are as an organization. We hire diverse talent and provide each member of the team with an opportunity to participate with an equal voice.

We build relationships with diverse partners, empowering them to collaborate and help define the best solutions for our clients as well as providing access to various opportunities. We take on a social responsibility that not only gives back to the community, but provide members of the community, including small business entrepreneurs of color, with the opportunity to thrive. Equity and inclusion is not just what we do, it’s the core of who we are.

What’s the most common challenge in this space?

One of the most common challenges for diverse business owners is building and maintaining DEIA practices. Various factors contributing to this include:

• Limited resources: Small businesses often have limited financial and human resources compared to larger organizations, making it difficult to prioritize and allocate resources towards DEIA.
• Lack of expertise and knowledge: Small business owners and leaders may not have extensive knowledge or experience in DEIA matters, hindering their ability to effectively implement DEIA initiatives.
• Resistance to change: Implementing DEIA initiatives often requires significant cultural shifts within an organization, creating levels of resistance. Overcoming resistance and building buy-in for DEIA efforts can be a challenge, particularly in smaller organizations where the power dynamics may be more personal and close-knit.
• Limited diversity in the talent pool: Small businesses may face difficulties in attracting a diverse pool of candidates due to factors such as limited brand recognition, a smaller geographic reach, or competition from larger companies. Without a diverse talent pool, it becomes difficult to build a diverse workforce and foster an inclusive environment.
• Maintaining momentum and accountability: Sustaining long-term commitment to DEIA can be challenging, especially in small businesses where employees may have multiple responsibilities.

Without consistent focus and accountability, DEIA initiatives may lose momentum over time. To address these challenges, small businesses can start by educating themselves and their employees on DEIA topics, seeking external support or training, and creating a clear roadmap for incorporating DEIA into their operations. Collaborating with external organizations, such as industry associations or local community groups, can provide additional resources and guidance.

What advice do you have for diverse business owners?

One of the most significant obstacles for diverse business owners is overcoming bias in buyers of goods and services, but there are strategies they can employ to address this issue. Here are some pieces of advice:

• Provide exceptional customer experience: Focus on delivering high-quality products, outstanding customer service and exceeding expectations. Satisfied customers become advocates for your business and expertise, helping counteract bias by sharing positive experiences with others. Word-of-mouth referrals are powerful in building trust and credibility.
• Leverage testimonials and reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to provide testimonials or reviews about your products or services. Positive feedback from diverse customers can help overcome bias by demonstrating that your business provides value and quality to a wide range of individuals.
• Seek partnerships and collaborations: Collaborate with other diverse businesses or organizations to expand your reach and visibility. By joining forces with like-minded enterprises, you can leverage collective networks and resources, and increase your chances of reaching diverse customer segments.
• Network and build relationships: Attend industry events, join professional associations, and network with potential customers and partners. Building relationships and establishing personal connections can break down biases by allowing people to see beyond stereotypes and recognize the value you bring as a diverse business owner.
• Elevate marketing activities: Focus on leveraging marketing to: a) build a strong brand, that highlights your divers background and values, b) use targeted marketing to clearly identify most likely buyers, and c) educate and engage customers about the benefits and value of supporting diverse businesses.

Remember that overcoming bias may take time, persistence, and consistent effort. By staying true to your values, delivering excellence, and actively engaging with your target audience, you can gradually influence perceptions and attract customers who appreciate and support diverse businesses.