Black business owners win funding through Kickstarter Program

August 28, 2026 - 01:50

Nine local Black entrepreneurs were celebrated Thursday as the first graduating class of a new collaborative program designed to help business owners secure funding and grow their operations. The initiative, known as the Kickstarter Program, brought together community leaders and financial experts to provide hands-on support for Black-owned startups and established shops alike.

The program focused on more than just writing checks. Participants went through a series of workshops and mentoring sessions that covered everything from business planning and marketing to financial management and pitch preparation. At the end of the course, each owner presented their business model to a panel of judges, with funding awarded based on the strength of their proposals and their long-term growth potential.

Organizers say the goal was to close the gap in access to capital that often affects minority-owned businesses. For many of the winners, the money will go toward new equipment, inventory, or hiring their first employees. One owner, who runs a catering company, said the funding means she can finally buy a commercial van to make deliveries. Another, who operates a small bookstore, plans to expand her children's section and host more community reading events.

The recognition event on Thursday was both a celebration and a call to action. Local officials praised the program as a model for other cities looking to support underrepresented entrepreneurs. They also encouraged larger financial institutions to get involved in similar efforts.

The nine business owners will continue to receive mentorship for the next six months. Organizers hope to run another class later this year, with plans to double the number of participants. For now, the focus is on making sure this first group succeeds, proving that with the right support, small businesses can thrive and create lasting change in their neighborhoods.