About Astra
Your Partner in Growth, Innovation, and Success
At Astra Empowerment, our mission is to support small businesses in New Jersey by offering free, data-driven resources to help them succeed in today’s competitive market. We recognize the unique challenges entrepreneurs face and are dedicated to providing practical solutions tailored to their needs. Whether it’s operational guides, financial templates, marketing tools, or community support, our platform equips business owners with the knowledge necessary to thrive. With a focus on innovation and collaboration, Astra is here to help entrepreneurs succeed, one step at a time.
Our Story
Pragati Kanatur
As a first-generation immigrant, I’ve seen firsthand the struggles many small business owners face. Growing up, I watched communities around me work tirelessly, only to be overlooked, underfunded, and under-supported.
The data tells a harsh story:
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Only 3% of venture capital funding goes to minority-led businesses, with even less for women of color.
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During the COVID-19 pandemic, 41% of Black-owned businesses and 32% of Latino-owned businesses reported severe financial losses, compared to just 17% of white-owned businesses.
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Minority entrepreneurs are more likely to face higher interest rates, limited access to credit, and fewer opportunities to network.
These aren’t just numbers—they reflect real lives, dreams deferred, and livelihoods at risk. Every closed business is a community losing its heart, a family losing income, and an entrepreneur losing their chance. As a junior in high school, I wanted to create something that goes beyond providing resources—it’s about offering real support, building confidence, and empowering entrepreneurs to take control of their future. At Astra Empowerment, what sets us apart is our ability to connect with those who know these challenges best. Our approach is simple yet impactful: we focus on understanding, empathy, and making change happen through actionable support. Instead of offering cookie-cutter advice, we offer tailored, data-driven solutions that reflect the unique needs of each business owner.
Founder