From the Only Black Woman in the Room to Owning the Building
Karla Dennis remembers being the only Black woman in meeting after meeting. She had to outperform just to prove she belonged. Years later, she is the CEO and founder of KDA, Inc., one of the few Black-owned tax strategy firms in the U.S.
“As a Black woman in finance, I had to break down walls just to get in the room — now I own the building,” she says.
Her breakthrough came during a regular client meeting. A client pointed out she had not only her four sons working with her but also a team of skilled professionals. That moment made her realize she had built a multimillion-dollar business and was leading a legacy that supported multiple families.
Building Generational Wealth Through Strategy
Dennis’s mission extends far beyond filing taxes. She focuses on creating wealth, passing down knowledge, and building community. She teaches Black women entrepreneurs financial strategies that many never learn, such as hiring their children for real business work.
“Put your children on payroll,” she advises. “It keeps wealth in the family instead of giving it all to the IRS.” This simple tactic lowers taxable income for the business and shifts earnings to children, who may pay little or no tax.
Her strategies also include using home office deductions, retirement plans like Solo 401(k)s, and building a strong financial foundation that can support growth.
Teaching the Next Generation of Leaders
Dennis raised her sons to understand money early. Using her “jar system,” she split every allowance into five categories: Rent, Food, Clothes, Fun, and Savings. This taught them discipline and the value of covering basic needs before spending.
As they grew older, the lessons turned into real business experience. They learned by helping with receipts, joining business calls, and watching their mother build a company from the ground up.
“They didn’t inherit titles,” Dennis says. “They earned their place through years of learning, observing, and showing up with value.”
Tackling Systemic Barriers for Black Women Entrepreneurs
Black women are the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the U.S., yet face the toughest financial obstacles. Dennis points to the lack of access to capital, financial guidance, and support networks.
“The biggest systemic barrier is lack of access to capital and real financial guidance,” she says. “We are building from pure grit, not generational wealth.”
Her solution is clear — community and information sharing. She encourages women to talk about money, join business spaces, and share resources openly. “When Black women are equipped with information and empowered with strategy, we are unstoppable.”
Mindset Shifts That Build Wealth
For Dennis, real success requires moving from survival mode to strategic planning. She believes entrepreneurs must see themselves as CEOs, charge their worth, and be proactive about financial planning.
“Wealthy people plan on purpose,” she explains. “When we stop running our businesses like side hustles, we can step into real power.”
Her advice for women starting or growing a business in 2025: “Be resilient. The most successful businesses are not always started in perfect conditions. They are built by people who plan with intention.”
