The U.S. Small Business Administration has named Lifestone Health Care Inc., in Proctor, Minn., the 2020 Minnesota Minority-Owned Small Business of the Year. Medical practitioner and entrepreneur, Dr. Chiamaka Enemuoh is the owner and president of Lifestone Health Care Inc. Lifestone began 2014, in a 2,200-square-foot house that accommodated five clients and five employees but quickly grew with increased demand and strong leadership. In 2016, with the help of an SBA-backed loan, Lifestone purchased and renovated a new location, which allowed it to double capacity and increase staff to 12.
“America relies on diversity to thrive and minority entrepreneurs add an important vibrancy to the
fabric of our nation,” said Brian McDonald, district director for the SBA in Minnesota. “We’re proud to be a part of helping the company succeed in business so it can do more to help the community it serves.”
Lifestone Health Care’s mission is to provide clients with respectful and reliable health care in a home-like setting. The company specializes in management of advanced medical and supportive services such as multiple sclerosis, brain aneurysm, diabetes, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and post-stroke care.
Dr. Enemuoh began working with the Women’s Business Alliance, an SBA Women’s Business Center hosted by the Entrepreneur Fund in Duluth, Minn., forging connections and building a strong network of support that led to obtaining an SBA-backed loan. Of her efforts, WBA’s Director Sandi Larson said, “Dr. Enemuoh has proven to be a strong entrepreneur. She is preparing to grow her business even more and her perseverance is key to her success. She chooses to not dwell on the negative things she has faced as a minority and an immigrant. She focuses on the positives and moves forward providing a safe, compassionate, and a respectful place for her clients to live.”
Dr. Enemuoh encourages young African American women to come work for her and she enjoys serving as a mentor for them and other young professionals in achieving their goals. Dr. Enemuoh also stays connected in the community through volunteering her time to the Age Well Arrowhead Organization, the Women’s Business Alliance, Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and African Women’s Group.
Congratulations Dr. Enemuoh! We are continually inspired by your vision, hard work and determination.
