What began for Mario and Kristi Baonga at a kitchen table, testing recipes and building a dream, has evolved into Hungry Chickpea, a growing food business strengthened by community, opportunity, and their partnership with the Black Entrepreneurs of the Flint Hills.

For Gabrielle and Deshawn Fogle, CommerceUplift helped turn knowledge into daily action. Through the program, the owners of Empowered Health gained practical insight into financial management, business strategy, and the systems needed to support sustainable growth.

Through a strategic NIL collaboration featuring Daisy Monie, BEFH helped create a campaign that spotlighted Brown’s Shoe Fit Co., Pink Pixie Marketing, and the power of intentional local partnership.

After completing the CommerceUplift Program in Fall 2025, Kriscendra Baptiste of Gifted Care Service walked away not only with new skills but with a major milestone. Her preparation and strategy earned her the win at the pitch competition, and she is now poised to expand her business from a home care agency to full Home Health services. Kriscendra’s story reflects how CommerceUplift equips entrepreneurs with knowledge, confidence, and real-world results.

After completing the CommerceUplift Program in Fall 2025, Harrison Mitchell of Smokin’ H’s Meats walked away with more than knowledge. He gained practical tools, greater confidence, and a clearer path toward scaling his business. From strengthening his business plan to preparing for future funding opportunities, Harrison’s story reflects the kind of growth CommerceUplift is designed to support.

For Tanze and Ron Stacker, CommerceUplift helped sharpen the strategy behind Stackhouse BBQ Sauce & Seasonings. With clearer financial systems, stronger marketing insight, and a plan for retail growth, they are building toward bigger opportunities for their brand.

As a new practice owner, Dr. Jurdene, founder of Sage & Summit Therapy, explains how the Black Joy Program has helped connect underserved clients to therapy while strengthening culturally responsive care in the community.

When Tyrone, founder of Townsend Counseling Services, reflects on the impact of the Black Joy Program, one theme stands out: access. For many of the couples he serves, the opportunity to engage in counseling is often limited by financial barriers. Through this program, that barrier was lifted.

For Brittany Fielder, owner of Britts Real Estate Services, 2025 marked a powerful turning point. She made the bold decision to go fully self-employed, officially stepping away from the corporate world to focus entirely on building her business on her own terms.

For Linda Murphy Maina, owner of Linda’s Afrikan Kreations, this year brought exciting growth and new opportunities. In September, her business made it to the motherland, connecting her creative work with broader cultural roots, and she welcomed two additional artists to her team.

For Jay and Chantai Purnell, owners of Ryde With Us, the biggest win this year wasn’t just about funding—it was finding a community that truly understood and supported their vision. Through their connection with BEFH, they found the guidance, encouragement, and resources to begin bringing their ideas to life.

For Jessica Andrews, owner of J’s Makeup Artistry, this year has been a breakthrough in growth and engagement. She achieved consistent income and hosted highly successful makeup classes with enthusiastic turnouts, marking a major milestone in the continued success of her business.

For Dr. Chaz Mailey, owner of Manhattan Mental Health Services, LLC, growth is about more than just business—it’s about expanding the care and support his team can provide to the community. Recently, Dr. Mailey celebrated a major milestone: welcoming two new employees to his practice.

Wilfred Gaye of Wilfred Gaye Agency used his Grind & Growth Technical Assistance grant to sharpen both marketing and leadership skills. From harnessing AI and ChatGPT for marketing and content creation to learning the art of setting boundaries, these sessions helped Wilfred grow personally and professionally. This grant enabled him to build stronger systems, boost confidence, and create strategies that support sustainable business growth.

Kriscendra Baptiste, owner of Gifted Care Service LLC, used her Grind & Growth Technical Assistance grant to strengthen both her marketing and accounting systems. From mastering small business tax strategies to learning how to maximize ChatGPT for marketing efficiency, the knowledge gained has saved time, reduced costs, and empowered her team to work smarter. This grant has not only helped Kriscendra navigate her first year of income and expenses but has also positioned her business for sustainable growth.

Jackee Johnson, owner of Blessed Hands Braiding, is enhancing client comfort and business growth with BEFH’s Circle of Community Grant. From new furniture to improved operations, she’s creating a welcoming, professional space while building essential skills and community connections.

Cheisa Myles, owner of Blessed Assurance Daycare, is growing her childcare business with faith and purpose. With support from BEFH’s Circle of Community Grant, she’s expanding her reach, strengthening her brand, and continuing her advocacy for families and children.

Kristi and Mario Baonga of Hungry Chickpea are scaling up their catering business with BEFH’s Circle of Community Grant. From larger orders to professional event service, they’re expanding their reach, revenue, and impact in the community.

From upgraded shampoo stations to a fully staffed salon and retail section, Embrace Beauty Studio is thriving. Discover how Kiondra Armstrong is blending passion and strategy with support from BEFH’s Circle of Community Grant.

Discover how Cierra Marrero and Simply Cierra LLC are bringing art to life with a mobile studio. With BEFH’s Circle of Community Grant, she’s elevated her business, created murals, and inspired her community through creativity.