Ask Sharifah Network launches to help small businesses get found

Sharifah Hardie has launched the Ask Sharifah Network in Inglewood, California, as a business ecosystem aimed at improving visibility for entrepreneurs, small businesses and nonprofits. The platform pairs AI-powered discovery with networking, listings and resources, and offers public business profiles for $4.99 a year.

Why it matters: - Rising ad costs and crowded digital marketplaces have made it harder for small businesses and nonprofits to stand out. - The Ask Sharifah Network is designed to give businesses a lower-cost way to build visibility, connect with customers and find growth opportunities. - The platform’s $4.99 annual profile price is positioned as an affordable entry point for startups, home-based businesses, nonprofits and growing companies.

What happened: - Entrepreneur, business strategist and media personality Sharifah Hardie launched the Ask Sharifah Network in Inglewood, California, on August 1, 2026. - The new platform combines AI-powered discovery, networking, business resources, events, employment opportunities, classified listings and professional services. - The network is now open to entrepreneurs, small businesses, nonprofit organizations, speakers, authors, consultants, service providers and professionals across the United States. - More information is available on the company’s website.

The details: - The platform is built around the idea that every business should have a chance to be discovered. - Business owners can create a public profile for $4.99 per year. - The network is meant to function as an active business community, not just a static directory. - Users can connect with customers, collaborate with other professionals, discover resources, promote organizations and access tools aimed at long-term success. - The platform also includes educational content and access to professional services.

Between the lines: - Hardie is pitching the network as a response to a real gap in the market: many businesses can afford to operate, but not to advertise heavily. - The emphasis on affordability suggests the platform is targeting smaller operators that often get priced out of traditional marketing channels. - Hardie said the effort reflects more than 20 years of working with business owners who wanted opportunity, not a handout. - Hardie also said businesses need more than a website; they need connections and opportunities.

What's next: - The Ask Sharifah Network will likely lean on its mix of discovery, networking and resources to attract members and build activity. - Hardie’s broader mission of supporting entrepreneurs through collaboration, innovation, education and strategic partnerships is set to continue through the platform. - The network’s success will depend on whether businesses see enough value in the low-cost profile and community features to join and stay active.

The bottom line: - Ask Sharifah Network is trying to make business visibility cheaper, simpler and more accessible for smaller organizations that struggle to compete online.