About Us

Welcome to The StartUp Shop, your launchpad. for small business success! We provide executive coaching, certification and licensing assistance, and marketing expertise to guide your growth. Let us help to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into thriving realities!

We empower women and minority entrepreneurs by providing startup licensing, certification, marketing, and government contracting education. Through tailored services, we enable small businesses to rise and compete for millions.

Ok so, who is this girl?

Meet Alicea Gay, Our CEO

Amidst the chaos of the COVID pandemic and the fervor of the Black Lives Matter Movement, Alicea faced a crossroads when she lost her job. Rather than succumbing to despair, she saw an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. With minority-owned businesses under a magnifying glass, she founded The StartUp Shop, driven by a determination to stem the tide of closures affecting over 44% of Black-owned businesses during the pandemic.

Fast forward through the challenges and triumphs, and The StartUp Shop stands as a beacon of success, recognized in esteemed publications and honored with the prestigious Power 50 Women of Power award. Alicea's journey isn't just about personal achievement; it's rooted in a deep-seated desire to see BIPOC communities thrive. Committed to bridging the equity gap through contracting and advancing the Black economic agenda, she champions advocacy, empowerment, and community building as vehicles for a brighter, more equitable future for all.

What People Are Saying

  • KATY F.

    “

    I didn’t know the first thing about small business certifications until I met Alicea and The StartUp Shop. Not only did she help me identify what certifications my business was eligible for, but she actually submitted my application for me which was a huge relief!”

    ”

  • ELIZABETH B.

    “

    Now that The StartUp Shop helped me get my corporate SBA and Local government certifications, my business is now able to subcontract on large projects and bid on MBE opportunities with the Federal government.

    ”

  • SARAH P.

    “

    I would highly recommend The StartUp Shop as a resource if you need support in tackling the monster of the application process. The support team is very thorough, transparent, and informative and guided me every step of the way. I was given an easy checklist of information and two weeks later, my business license, EIN, and MBE applications were approved.

    ”

  • VICTORIA G.

    “

    As a small business owner, hiring The Shop to handle administrative tasks is a game-changer. We simply don't have time for everything, but with their support, we can focus on growth!

    “

  • JUDY H.

    “

    Everyone needs a jump start, and The Shop can be that boost for your business. Their expert support fuels success and drives growth, helping you reach new heights faster!

    “

Certifications & Awards Held

Entrepreneurship is not just a title — its a skillset. Add The StartUp Shop to your toolbox.

It only goes up from here.

Ready to take your business to the next level? Book a free 30-minute consultation with us! Let's discuss your goals and create a roadmap for your success!"