Black Business & Entrepreneurship is the Future

A Note From The Editor: Kimberly Knight, Editor-in-Chief

In March 2020, a global pandemic began and even in the midst of the unknown, there were many Black-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs launching services and goods. As we enter the 3rd Quarter of 2022 in the year of the “Great Resignation,” we are seeing the importance of Black businesses globally and locally across our state. It’s a time of rebirth, resilience, and restoration. We are seeing on social media daily the launch of budding Black entrepreneurs, digital content creators, and small businesses who are focused on pursuing their goals. There are digital content sources and organizations providing innovative resources to support Black entrepreneurship. One particular nonprofit organization to highlight is the Carolina Small Business Development Fund, which focuses on providing resources and grant opportunities to small businesses in North Carolina. One of their core projects is the Oak City Biz Labs grant initiative that provides small businesses and entrepreneurs technical educational assistance. It is one of many organizations in our state that has seen the impact of investing in small businesses. However, what has stood out even more, in my opinion, is the selflessness of Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs providing local community organizations, faith-based centers, school systems, and individuals in need with support. One Black-owned small business I would like to highlight is the staff of Beyu Caffé because in 2020, that is when The Beyu Food Project launched to serve meals to community members including children, adults, families, and healthcare workers in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic. It was a hands-on effort of staff and leadership of Beyu Caffé giving back to the community that has supported them for over 10 years.

In the Summer Issue, the Substantial Team has worked diligently to create an outstanding issue surrounding the topics of Black businesses and entrepreneurship. It was important that in this issue we highlighted not only Black-owned business services but how their presence has contributed to increasing the economic growth in their local communities in a time of inflation. It’s an issue meant to emphasize the necessity of Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. Also, we are excited that our Substantial Summer Intern, Joelle Adeleke, has contributed in-depth and creative content in this issue. Her presence and creative perspective have been refreshing!

As the Editor-in-Chief, I hope you enjoy the plentiful resources, engaging content, and amazing stories we have featured in this issue. The beauty of the Substantial Team is all of us are a part of this collective of Black-owned businesses in North Carolina. So take a moment to review this issue and if you are interested in launching your own business, I hope this inspires you to move forward with your dreams.

With Gratitude,

Kimberly M. Knight, Editor-In-Chief