Lori Shao

Lori Shao is the CEO and Founder of Finli Inc., a company she established to support blue-collar entrepreneurs and small businesses.12 Her journey is a compelling example of the American Dream, as she immigrated to the United States and worked her way up from an entry-level position to becoming a successful entrepreneur.1

Professional Background

Lori has over 22 years of experience in the financial industry.5 After graduating from college, she began her career as a commercial underwriter at a top insurance company, earning $24,000 per year.2 She spent 17 years climbing the corporate ladder before deciding to break away and pursue entrepreneurship.2

Founding Finli

Inspired by her parents' experiences as blue-collar entrepreneurs, Lori founded Finli to democratize access to financial resources for small businesses.1 Finli is a comprehensive platform that aims to help small businesses with tasks such as invoicing, collecting payments, and managing accounts receivable.2

Mission and Vision

Lori's mission with Finli is to:

• Equip blue-collar entrepreneurs with necessary financial tools
• Shift perceptions of blue-collar entrepreneurs
• Welcome immigrant business owners out of the shadows
• Elevate small businesses to new heights

Recognition

Lori Shao has been recognized for her contributions to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in business:

• She was named a DEIA Visionary by the Los Angeles Times3
• The Los Angeles Times magazine recognized her for her work in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility4

Through her work at Finli, Lori Shao is actively working to create opportunities for blue-collar entrepreneurs, challenge societal norms, and foster community pride in small business owners.1