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.

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.