What does your company do?

Guava founder and CEO Kelly Ifill: Guava is a digital community banking platform built for Black small-business owners and entrepreneurs. By providing easy access to financial products and a broader network of community services, our goal is to help drive growth for Black business and work to close the racial wealth gap.

A question we love to ask every founder: why New York?

KI: As a native New Yorker, I know first hand that our communities and the small businesses that serve them are the lifeblood of this city. But like everywhere else, Black business owners in New York typically do not receive the same level of support that others do. So, New York is Guava's launching pad to take on bigger national challenges. 

You founded Guava a full year into COVID-19 hitting New York. How did the pandemic shape your business idea?

KI: ​​Black communities and our businesses have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. If anything, the ongoing pandemic only further highlighted existing structural inequities and the urgent need for Black-owned businesses to get the same access and support as others. 

People are more optimistic we’re approaching a more “normal,” post-pandemic time soon. What are you hearing from Black business owners about their needs in stabilizing or sustaining their businesses long-term? What should NYC government leaders be doing to support those efforts?

KI: The cost of starting and running businesses in New York is expensive and can be prohibitive for some. Even well-established small businesses are struggling to compete, especially with larger, nationally established chains. To truly level the playing field, Black entrepreneurs and business owners need equitable access. The city government needs to make it easier for Black entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses here.

What’s one top growth goal you hope to achieve by the end of 2022?

KI: We're still focused on fundraising and moving our app from a private beta to a fully launched, publicly available product.

Okay, three rapid fire questions.  First: where do you get your favorite pizza slice?

KI: I’m not a huge pizza eater (I know, I know!) but I can tell you my favorite burger is from Cafe Rue Dix, a Black-owned Senegalese restaurant. 

What’s the best place in New York for a coffee or lunch meeting (remember in-person meetings)?

KI: Most of my in-person meetings are in Midtown and the Financial District, so when they don't have to be in an office, I like breaking it up by taking meetings in hotel lobbies. They feel more casual and offer great people watching. 

What’s your favorite remote work or productivity hack?

KI: Walking meetings. The ability to be productive while getting fresh air is important for everyone, I think. Also, an early morning workout at Krank Brooklyn always sets me on the right course for the day!