As national debates rise over the newly proposed “Big Beautiful Bill”, one question looms: how will it reshape America’s labor force, and what will it mean for corporations navigating the future of work?
Dr. Felicia Phillips, a nationally recognized business strategist with more than 30 years of experience, isn’t just watching from the sidelines, she’s guiding the conversation. As CEO of PPICW, Inc. and President of the Heartland Institute for Financial Education, she’s advised Fortune 500 companies, government agencies, and over 6,000 entrepreneurs on workforce development, economic equity, and sustainability.
We asked Dr. Phillips about the impact of this legislation, and she didn’t hold back.
Q: What foundational gaps do you still see in businesses today?
Dr. Phillips: “Honestly, after three decades, a lot of the same challenges keep popping up, missing financial systems, no documented processes, and legal compliance getting pushed to the bottom of the list. Without those, you can’t forecast or create strategies with real ROI. And many entrepreneurs are trying to ‘figure it out’ with YouTube, Google, or AI, when they really need hands-on, professional guidance.”
That’s why at PPICW, her team goes beyond advice—offering assessments, custom strategic plans, and executive coaching. Through MogulCon, she’s created a space where small businesses learn the 12 key areas they must manage and connect directly with corporate decision-makers.
Q: What’s the biggest misconception about Black-owned businesses?
Dr. Phillips: “That we can’t handle large contracts, aren’t innovative, or aren’t resourceful—none of which is true. Diverse businesses fail less than 2% according to Price Waterhouse Cooper.
Many of us are experts in our fields, but corporations still rely on outdated assumptions. We have to present our value clearly and be ready with the right certifications, documentation, and communication. On the flip side, corporations need to move beyond ‘checking the box’ and make supplier inclusion a true business driver.”
Q: How should business owners prepare for the ‘Big Beautiful Bill’ and DEI changes?
Dr. Phillips: “Federal DEI rollbacks and changes in procurement rules are already creating pressure. Businesses must focus on merit-based inclusion, leadership development, and mentorship programs that build workplace diversity without relying on class-based preferences. This is also the time to double down on financial planning—build emergency funds, seek capital from local banks or CDFIs, and stay informed on compliance requirements.”
A recent McKinsey report estimated the U.S. could add $1 trillion to GDP by increasing workplace inclusivity.
For Dr. Phillips, that’s more than a statistic—it’s a clear opportunity. “That’s not just a catchy number,” she says. “It’s a call to action.”
Through MogulCon, she’s seen that action in real time. Business owners walk in with challenges and walk out with corporate contracts, joint venture partners, and long-term growth strategies. One attendee, Dr. Cher’Don Reynolds, landed her first corporate contract after participating—and reinvested the success into her community.
Her message is clear: inclusion must start at the top, be woven into the culture, and be measured by more than cost.
“Change is slow,” she says, “but I see the ripple effect. That’s why I keep showing up, ready to build, advocate, and celebrate every win along the way.”
Stay Connected with Dr. Phillips on Instagram.
Images Courtesy of Dr. Felicia Phillips.
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