Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in financial services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Noura Almasri, Founder and CEO of Noura's Books, located in Katy, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is a tax & accounting firm. I'm a Nonprofit Chief Financial Officer (CFO). We also do taxes for businesses, individuals, and nonprofits.
Tell us about yourself
Working as an accounting and tax professional, I was pretty content serving Corporate America. I am highly skilled at preparing large companies for tax season and managing complex financial systems within a deep network. My job was to squeeze every dollar for its maximum value to ultimately serve the bottom line. It wasn't until the Arab Spring of 2011 that my focus started to change. My involvement in the world of nonprofits suddenly became deeply personal. As a Syrian immigrant, born and raised, I was profoundly affected by the revolution that took over my home region. Worried about the state of the world, I joined forces as an activist, speaking publicly against the violence, and fundraising for nonprofits to support citizens on the ground. I focused my efforts on asking for individual donations with the "don't ask, don't get" mentality. By the end of my tenure, I had raised close to $10m for various nonprofits, and I continue to serve nonprofits to nurture their mission, grow their cause, and maximize every donation that enters into their organization.
As your Independent Chief Financial Officer, I can take away the challenges of fundraising for your nonprofit and help your organization grow long-term. I will help you implement the right financial models, management systems, and fundraising planning so that you can maximize your efforts in the right place. Your struggles don't have to come at a cost when you have a professional by your side. I'm Noura Almasri, and I welcome you in my books.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Creating a robust financial system, maintaining your books, and staying compliant with state and federal regulations, maximize your donor's return on investment and attract larger grants.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The biggest challenge is reaching the right audience who really needs you and educate them.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Plan ahead and set a budget so you do not overspend.
- Hire even if you do not think you can afford it because that is how you can grow.
- Work on the business, not just in the business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.nourasbooks.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NourasBooksLLC/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nourasbooks/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/NourasBooks
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noura-almasri/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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