What’s happening?
A dormant block of Howard Street in the Market Center-Bromo Arts District is being revitalized by five Black women-owned businesses.
How did this come about? A coincidence?
Two years ago, Baltimore-based development firm Poverni Sheikh Group launched a competition that would grant free storefront rent to business owners. Two of the winners happened to be Black-women-owned businesses, Cajou Creamery and Cuples Tea House. The other new Black women-owned businesses on the block include Unique Beauty Blends—which will house a retail store and spa—, Vegan Juiceology, and a gym called Memphis 40/50 Fit.
Anything else I should know?
Black women-owned businesses are rapidly growing across the country, but that doesn’t guarantee their success, according to Larry Ivory, chairman of the National Black Chamber of Commerce. Local leaders need to “create sustainable businesses that grow and prosper” and residents “must be intentional about doing business with Black people,” he said.
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