Who We Are
Engage. Empower. Equip.
Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills (BEFH) is a Manhattan-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to entrepreneurship, economic opportunity, and community development in the Flint Hills region.
BEFH was founded to address gaps in access to capital, business resources, and infrastructure for underserved entrepreneurs. The organization provides entrepreneurship training, business incubation, capital access support, and youth programming designed to increase pathways to ownership and long-term economic stability.
BEFH is currently leading the development of the Yuma Street Cultural Center, a historic preservation and community development project in Manhattan’s historic Black district. The Center will serve as a hub for entrepreneurship, cultural programming, and community engagement.
We build pathways to entrepreneurship, ownership, and innovation that drive economic mobility and expand access and opportunity.
History of Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills (BEFH)
Founded in 2021 by Sheila Ellis-Glasper and Jermain Glasper, Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills (BEFH) was born from the founders’ personal experiences with the challenges and barriers faced by entrepreneurs of color. Sheila and Jermain, co-owners of a boutique social media and branding consulting firm, recognized the transformative power of mentorship, opportunity, and hard work. Inspired by their journey as entrepreneurs and their son’s successful leap from a local lemonade stand to grocery store shelves, they envisioned BEFH as a vehicle to share knowledge and resources within the business community.
The spark for BEFH’s creation came from a deeply personal realization: despite the immense potential of Black entrepreneurs, systemic barriers—including limited access to capital and opportunities—hinder their growth and success. Understanding the stark racial wealth gap, which studies estimate could take 228 years to close between Black and white families, Sheila and Jermain committed to entrepreneurship as a powerful tool for change. By sharing their knowledge and experiences, they helped six other Black-owned brands transition from local markets to larger retail platforms in just one year, demonstrating the power of collective support and mentorship.
BEFH quickly grew into an organization dedicated to closing the racial wealth gap by providing culturally responsive business training, technical assistance, resources, and access to capital. Its flagship program, the Each One Teach One Mentoring and Coaching Program, embodies the African proverb of spreading knowledge for the betterment of the community. With nearly 300 coaching sessions completed, the program has provided essential guidance in business formation, marketing, leadership, and product development.
Key milestones include:
2021: Sheila and Jermain, supported by founding board members Doug Barrett, Dr. Jessica Elmore, Dr. Crystal Davis, LaNiqe Brown, and Johnny Taylor, launched BEFH to foster economic justice and generational wealth.
2022: The Each One Teach One Mentoring and Coaching Program officially launched, along with advocacy efforts to address economic disparities.
2023: Expansion of advocacy efforts secures over $200,000 in funding for local entrepreneurs.
2024: Expanded programs, including the CommerceUplift Cohort and the Black Joy is Healing Therapy Program, reached new heights with broader participation and deeper community impact.
2026: Construction begins on Yuma Street Cultural Center — an innovative historic renovation honoring history and creating opportunities for growth.
BEFH champions advocacy and engaging local and state leaders to address economic inequities. Its efforts have positioned entrepreneurship as a pathway to prosperity, creating opportunities that uplift individuals and communities alike.
Today, BEFH continues to honor its founders’ vision, empowering over 100 businesses annually in the Flint Hills region and beyond. With a mission to close the racial wealth gap and create lasting impact, BEFH builds on a legacy of resilience, mentorship, and community-driven growth.
BEFH’s 4-point Action Plan includes:
Champion access to funding for entrepreneurs through a mix of grants, loans, and investment options, supplemented by hands-on technical support. Elevate the quality of life for people of color in our communities in tandem.
Boost the visibility of black-owned businesses via targeted media campaigns, community partnerships, and high-profile events. Utilize social media and strategic alliances for maximum impact.
Deliver and partner with culturally competent and responsive business resources and training that cover everything from funding access, bankability, and financial literacy to branding, legal support, and government certifications.
Drive critical conversations around regional and statewide equity challenges highlighting best practices from communities that are making significant progress. Discuss actionable solutions for wealth disparity and health inequities.
BEFH’s Core Values
Equity and Access: We work to remove barriers to entrepreneurship, resources, and economic opportunity.
Ownership and Lasting Wealth: We help turn entrepreneurial dreams into sustainable businesses and pathways to generational wealth.
Community and Collaboration: We build relationships that connect entrepreneurs, strengthen local businesses, and help our communities thrive.
Representation and Belonging: We center Black entrepreneurs’ experiences, celebrate their contributions, and welcome people of all backgrounds.
Dignity and Well-Being: We value the whole person, recognizing that personal wellness, family stability, and business success are connected.
Integrity and Stewardship: We use resources responsibly, practice transparency, and remain accountable to the people we serve.
Community Voice: We listen to our members and let their experiences and priorities shape our programs and decisions.
Support the work
Pledge your support by investing in local equitable entrepreneurship by becoming a part of the BEFH Circle of Community.
