Invest Newark Celebrates Local BIPOC Entrepreneurs at Business Accelerator Graduation

Graduates of the 2024 Executive Business Accelerator Program reflect the diverse, thriving entrepreneurial spirit of Newark's small business community

NEWARK, N.J., Jan. 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Invest Newark celebrated the graduation of 16 small business owners from its Executive Business Accelerator Program during a ceremony held at Newark City Hall. Among the graduates, 19% identified as Hispanic or Latino, 81% as Black or African American and 70% represented women-owned businesses.

The seven-month program, which uses Interise's award-winning StreetWise 'MBA'™ curriculum, provides established small business owners with over $100,000 in annual revenues and at least one other employee with practical training in areas like strategic planning, marketing, financial management, procurement and sales. To complete the program, graduates must develop and present a customized three-year growth plan for their business.

Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka highlighted the program's vital role in supporting the city's economic growth and entrepreneurship ecosystem.

"The Executive Business Accelerator Program is helping small businesses in Newark grow and thrive," said Mayor Ras J. Baraka. "By equipping local entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources they need, this program is strengthening our city's economy and ensuring long-term success for our businesses."

Since 2020, the program has supported more than 60 Newark-based CEOs across industries such as hospitality, construction, food manufacturing and accounting. Data collected in 2023, following the graduation of the previous cohort, shows that 76% of alumni businesses reported increased or maintained annual revenues, 77% were profitable, and 77% hired local full-time staff. Graduates are also eligible to compete for Business Development Grants, with $15,000 in total grant money available for each cohort.

"This program continues to prove its value by helping businesses reach new heights," said Marcus T. Randolph, CEO of Invest Newark. "We are proud to support entrepreneurs who are committed to growing their businesses and contributing to Newark's economic future."

Graduates of the 2024 cohort include the following businesses:

• BWS Massage Concierge, LLC
• AP Business Services
• DYNAMIC DIGITAL AIR
• Amazing Strides
• S&A AUTO CENTER
• Transform The Hustle
• All Star Development Enterprises, LLC
• Just Right Technology
• Proud 2 Be Me Learning Center
• Bara Ex Nihilo Holdings, LLC (BENH)
• M Campbell Development
• TMA General Contracting LLC
• Ochoa Enterprises, LLC
• Organic Lyfe LLC
• Brick City Strength
• Uncle Willie's Wings

This initiative is part of Invest Newark's ongoing commitment to supporting local and BIPOC-owned businesses, fostering an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem, and driving equitable economic growth in the city.

"We're proud to partner with Invest Newark to offer this transformative program," said Elizabeth J. Reynoso, Director of Research, Evaluation & Impact at Interise. "The outcomes demonstrate the power of equitable business education, leveraging Interise's award-winning StreetWise MBA program. By empowering business owners in underserved communities, we're working together to close the wealth gap and create an inclusive economy for all. I encourage eligible small businesses in Newark to apply for the 2025 cohort at programs.interise.org/newark."

ABOUT INVEST NEWARK 
Invest Newark, the city's Economic Development Corporation, propels economic growth by championing small businesses, improving internet access and facilitating real estate development. These endeavors lead to job creation and wealth generation, enhancing the overall welfare of Newark's residents. Distinguished by our unwavering dedication to equity and sustainability, Invest Newark stands apart as a forward-thinking development agency. Stay up to date on Invest Newark's latest news by following us on X, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn, or visit us at InvestNewark.org. 

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SOURCE Invest Newark