Tulsa, Oklahoma has seen a surge in female business ownership over the years, with Lori Nair leading the way. Nair started her business as a chance opportunity when her daughter needed a special bag for her wheelchair. She began sewing the bags and eventually expanded to embroidery. Her success led her to trade shows and eventually opened a brick-and-mortar location near 31st and Harvard in Tulsa. Despite traveling for her business, Nair loves being in Tulsa and credits her dedicated team for the success of Tatermash Embroidery.
According to equality indicators, Tulsa has a score of 61/100 when it comes to female business ownership. However, the city has seen a significant decline in homelessness by disability status, with the score dropping from 35/100 in 2018 to 20/100 currently. Homeless individual Walt Lewis, who uses a wheelchair, shared his struggles faced by those in similar circumstances.
Mayor GT Bynum acknowledges these statistics as part of a larger story for the city of Tulsa. The community’s support for small businesses like Nair’s and the need for additional resources to address homelessness by disability status are key aspects of Tulsa’s ongoing growth and development.
