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(SACRAMENTO) In celebration of Black History Month, the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC) and the California Black Chamber of Commerce (CBCC) recognized 16 honorees at the annual Black Business Brunch on Feb. 10 at the Citizen Hotel in Sacramento. The small business owners from every corner of the state were recognized for their entrepreneurship, contributions to their respective communities, and vital roles in improving California's economic landscape. The proprietors were chosen by members of the CLBC and CBCC. They were honored on the Assembly floor at the State Capitol later that afternoon. “We gather here today to honor the incredible African American, small business owners of California,” Jay King, President and CEO of CBCC, told California Black Media. “We have to show them some love because they are the heart and soul of our communities. Their tireless work and unwavering dedication show what it means to be leaders” 

In the heart of Long Beach, a new initiative is bringing nonprofit leaders, community champions, and changemakers together—one cup of coffee at a time. Denise Peoples and 21st Century STEM are launching a special series of Coffee Meetups, beginning Tuesday, March 4th , at 10:30 AM at Café Lorel , in Long Beach, California. These gatherings aim to foster collaboration, resource-sharing, and innovative problem-solving among nonprofit organizations. Recognizing the challenges that small nonprofits often face—such as limited funding, staffing, and visibility—this initiative provides a space where leaders can exchange ideas, form strategic partnerships, and find collective solutions to common obstacles .

LOS ANGELES — In the wake of one of the most devastating natural disasters in California history, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced the launch of LA Rises, a unified recovery initiative that brings together private sector leaders to support rebuilding efforts led by the city of Los Angeles, Los Angeles County and the State of California. The Governor has enlisted Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, business leader and basketball legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and Casey Wasserman, LA28 Chairperson and President to lead and recruit others to this private sector and philanthropic effort. To seed this new effort, Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter, the Mark Walter Family Foundation, and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation have provided an initial commitment of up to $100 million. With plans to raise additional funds through private donations, LA Rises will provide major resources aimed at helping Los Angeles communities most affected by these catastrophic fires recover and rebuild. LA Rises will marshal the full resources of the private sector, augmenting and amplifying local and state resources, to rebuild Altadena, Pasadena, the Pacific Palisades, and all impacted communities. As part of the unified effort, city and county leaders are crafting recovery plans for their communities. The state is mobilizing its resources and scale, coordinating with the federal government, and removing red tape. LA Rises will galvanize the private sector to unlock additional capital and find new and innovative tools to help communities build back faster and stronger. “Los Angeles will rise again — stronger, more united, and more resilient than ever. Just as California came together to fight the fires, we’ll work together to rebuild. With Mark, Earvin and Casey’s proven leadership and deep commitment to Los Angeles, we’ll tap into the enormous creativity, experience, and resources of the private sector, alongside local, state, and federal efforts, to deliver a recovery that benefits all Angelenos," said Newsom “The LA fires have wreaked havoc on LA’s neighborhoods. It’s time for those with means to come forward and make a positive impact to build back better,” Dodgers Chairman Mark Walter “This is a time for bold action. We’re bringing together the best resources and biggest hearts across California to ensure that every Angeleno — no matter their race, socioeconomic status, or neighborhood — has a chance to rebuild and thrive. This isn’t just about recovery; it’s about restoring communities while also making them more resilient and better than before,” Earvin “Magic” Johnson “I’ve been a lifelong Angeleno, and what I admire most about this city is its resilience and unity. There’s nothing Los Angeles can’t achieve. LA Rises will channel the unmatched creativity, resources, and generosity of the private sector to rebuild our city and pave the way for a stronger future," said LA 28 President Casey Wasserman “Given the scale and scope of damage and destruction the Eaton wildfire has left in its wake, I wholeheartedly welcome all the support from the state as well as the private sector as part of this initiative. By corralling and coordinating the work of philanthropy and private industry, this can complement our local recovery and rebuilding efforts, especially for our marginalized populations in Altadena who have lost everything. When it comes to supporting initiatives — like this one — that look to arm us with the resources to rebuild with a bottom-up approach, I’m all in,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger “Efforts to rebuild are underway in the City of Los Angeles and this announcement will be a vital component of a comprehensive effort to bring Angelenos home. The number one question on the minds of Angelenos is about recovery and rebuilding. I am grateful that the Governor and the LA Rises initiative will be there to partner with us, developing solutions to support our work. In recent days, the strength and resilience of Los Angeles have been felt throughout the state, the nation and the world. I want to thank the Governor for his continued partnership and his collaboration during this difficult time for our city," said Mayor of Los Angeles Karen Bass How LA Rises will work LA Rises will contribute through collaboration, access to capital and financial tools, leveraging innovation and private-sector investment to drive a faster recovery. It will support the broader recovery efforts by: Fundraising and expanding access to philanthropic and private capital. Formulating financing strategies to close the gap between available resources and the cost to rebuild Collaborating with other philanthropic and community organizations to maximize the impact of ongoing rebuilding and recovery efforts. Supporting unified communication efforts to arm Angelenos with up-to-date, factual information, timelines for rebuilding, and available resources. In addition to the financial commitment from the Mark Walter Family Foundation, and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation, LA Rises will receive financial support from California Rises, a statewide recovery initiative founded by Governor Newsom and First Partner Siebel Newsom after the 2018 Camp Fire. A partnership between the Governor’s Office and the California Fire Foundation, California Rises is dedicated to supporting communities impacted by the fires and firefighters and first responders who continue to serve on the frontlines.

Nationwide — A prayer for change and a moment of inspiration transformed Marcinda Hankins' life, taking her from earning just $300 a week as a waitress to building X’clusive Looks Beard Sauce, a multi-million-dollar beard care brand redefining men’s grooming. As a single African American mother, her story is one of resilience, innovation, and empowerment, inspiring others to dream big and pursue their purpose. Her Inspiring Journey After being laid off from JPMorgan Chase in 2018, Marcinda, based in Frisco, Texas, faced significant challenges as both a woman and a single mother. Determined to support her family, she launched a salon suite business offering makeup and facial services. However, when the pandemic brought unforeseen difficulties, she took a part-time job at a cigar lounge—and that’s where inspiration struck. “Men often asked if I had anything that could make their beards feel as good as their faces after a facial,” Marcinda recalls. “I realized a gap in men’s grooming and decided to fill it.” With her expertise as a licensed esthetician and insights from conversations at the lounge, Marcinda crafted a breakthrough formula that would change the face of men’s grooming. By focusing on the skin beneath the beard, X’clusive Looks Beard Sauce provides deep hydration and prevents dryness, itchiness, breakage, dandruff, and split ends—issues often overlooked by traditional grooming products. “I wanted to create more than just a product; I wanted to deliver an experience. Too many men don’t know how to care for their beards properly, and my mission is to educate them while offering something that truly works.” Unlike conventional beard oils, X’clusive Looks Beard Sauce not only hydrates the beard but also nourishes the skin, ensuring a well-groomed look without the greasy residue. A Mission to Empower Women Beyond business success, Marcinda is passionate about empowering women, particularly single mothers, to pursue their dreams and build their own success. “I’ve been in a place where I felt overlooked and stuck,” she shares. “Through faith and persistence, I found my purpose. I want to inspire women to believe their ideas matter and can lead to extraordinary success.” Her journey proves that adversity can fuel innovation, and she hopes to inspire other women to trust their vision, step into their purpose, and take action. Revolutionizing Men’s Grooming X’clusive Looks Beard Sauce is quickly becoming a game-changer in the men’s grooming industry, earning rave reviews from customers nationwide who report fuller, healthier, and itch-free beards. With natural ingredients—including honey for its healing properties—the product is particularly beneficial for men with sensitive skin or persistent beard issues. Marcinda is also collaborating with esthetician schools to educate future professionals on proper beard care, ensuring that the next generation of grooming experts understands the importance of skincare beneath facial hair. Support & Connect To support X’clusive Looks Beard Sauce or explore partnership opportunities, visit MyXclusiveLooks.com . Stay connected for updates, grooming tips, and inspiration by following @MyXclusiveLooks_llc on Instagram. About X’clusive Looks Beard Sauce X’clusive Looks Beard Sauce is a premium beard care line created by Marcinda Hankins, a licensed esthetician dedicated to transforming men’s grooming. Designed to tackle dryness, itchiness, breakage, and dandruff while promoting healthy skin, it delivers a superior grooming experience for men of all skin types. Marcinda’s journey is a testament to the power of faith, determination, and a clear vision—proving that challenges can lead to extraordinary opportunities and that anything is possible when passion meets purpose.

Nationwide — Full Circle Bloom, an innovative aeroponic farm in Kenbridge, Virginia, is redefining the future of sustainable agriculture. Founded by Ashley Richardson, the farm is a testament to the power of innovation, resilience, and community-driven solutions in farming. Ashley Richardson’s journey from a Senior Project Manager and Consultant in Washington, D.C., to an agricultural entrepreneur in Southern Virginia reflects her passion for food security, sustainability, and economic empowerment. Full Circle Bloom specializes in cultivating a diverse range of high-quality, pesticide-free produce year-round using advanced aeroponic technology. This revolutionary method suspends plant roots in the air and nourishes them with a nutrient-rich mist, leading to faster growth cycles, higher yields, and minimal environmental impact compared to traditional farming. “At Full Circle Bloom, we are passionate about growing fresh, healthy food and making it accessible to everyone in our community,” says Richardson. “We believe that nutritious food should be a right, not a privilege.” Beyond Farming: A Commitment to Community Full Circle Bloom’s impact reaches far beyond its state-of-the-art farm. The company actively partners with schools, restaurants, and businesses to supply fresh, locally sourced ingredients while also providing farm tours and hands-on educational experiences. To date, the farm has donated over 25,000 pounds of produce to local schools, food banks, and community organizations—tackling food insecurity one harvest at a time. With recent funding from the Microsoft Southern Virginia Community Fund and the Tractor Supply Farmer Veteran Coalition, Full Circle Bloom is preparing to launch an exciting new initiative: “Nourishing Communities Through Innovation.” This program will expand food access, promote sustainable agriculture, and empower communities through education and outreach. A Vision for the Future Ashley Richardson’s leadership and dedication to sustainable farming have positioned Full Circle Bloom as a model for innovation in agriculture. Her commitment to fostering a healthier, more equitable food system is transforming Virginia’s agricultural landscape—and inspiring a new generation of farmers, entrepreneurs, and advocates. To learn more about Full Circle Bloom and its mission, visit FullCircleBloom.com .

Nationwide — Gridmaster Solar One, founded by industry veteran Michael Henry who is also the company’s CEO, has achieved a historic milestone as the first Black-owned solar franchise globally. With 45 franchises already on board, the company is on a mission to expand to 2000, redefining renewable energy solutions across diverse sectors. Gridmaster Solar One is revolutionizing the solar energy industry by combining cutting-edge technology with a sustainable franchising model. The company provides comprehensive support to its franchisees, including product knowledge, ongoing training, established brand recognition, a global network, marketing support, and in-house financing options. “Our vision extends beyond simply selling solar solutions; we are committed to empowering underrepresented communities and contributing to the global shift towards renewable energy,” stated Michael Henry, founder of Gridmaster Solar One. The company’s innovative Solar Tower technology is adaptable for a wide array of applications such as hotels, schools, stadiums, event centers, airports, churches, farms, apartment buildings, and gas stations. With my team we have over 78 years of combined experience in the industry, Gridmaster Solar One is poised to lead significant advancements in the renewable energy sector. “We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional solar energy solutions that meet and exceed our clients’ expectations, transforming energy landscapes and paving the way towards a brighter, more sustainable future! Gridmaster Solar One offers a range of innovative solar energy solutions tailored to meet the needs of both residential and commercial clients. The company ensures that all clients receive the highest quality service and support. Discover how Gridmaster Solar One’s cutting-edge solar solutions can transform your energy landscape. For more information, visit us at GridmasterSolarOne.com

Government contracting has always been a competitive space, and with the latest shifts in federal business policies, small businesses—especially those in the Small Disadvantaged Business (SDB) and 8(a) programs—are facing new challenges. While changes in priorities and regulations create uncertainty, this is not the time for fear. It’s time to get strategic, double down on business excellence, and become even sharper problem solvers. What’s Changing? Recent executive orders have reshaped the landscape of government contracting, affecting programs that historically provided opportunities for small and minority-owned businesses. Federal agencies and contractors are adjusting policies and procedures to align with the new directives, and the impact is already visible. Larger contractors are revising their commitments and compliance strategies, while smaller firms must determine how to navigate these changes while maintaining their competitive edge. What This Means for Small Disadvantaged Businesses For businesses participating in federal programs like the SBA 8(a) program, these policy shifts mean heightened competition and new regulatory considerations. While some previous initiatives may be scaled back, the demand for strong, capable businesses that can deliver value remains unchanged. Now, more than ever, small businesses must focus on the fundamentals: sound financial management, operational efficiency, and a clear value proposition. How to Strengthen and Protect Your Business 1. Stay Informed and Compliant Regulatory changes can be complex, and misinterpretation can be costly. Ensure that your business stays legally compliant by: Regularly reviewing guidance from the SBA and other relevant agencies. Consulting legal and compliance experts. Engaging with industry and advocacy organizations that monitor policy updates. 2. Reframe and Adapt Your Strategy While certain terms and initiatives may be phased out, the principles behind them—such as talent development, inclusive leadership, and supplier diversity—can still be pursued under different frameworks. Consider: Shifting language from “diversity initiatives” to “workforce development” or “talent pipeline expansion.” Highlighting performance, experience, and problem-solving capabilities as core business strengths. 3. Strengthen Your Financial and Operational Excellence Now is the time to ensure your business is financially sound and operationally strong. Get your financial house in order : Ensure that your books are audit-ready and that your financial reporting is accurate. Optimize business processes : Improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance service delivery. Invest in technology : Utilize automation and digital tools to streamline operations and improve productivity. 4. Diversify Your Revenue Streams If your business relies heavily on federal contracts, consider expanding into: State and local government contracts. Private sector partnerships and corporate supplier diversity programs. New service offerings or market segments. Major corporations continue to invest in diverse suppliers, creating opportunities outside of federal contracting. 5. Stay Competitive and Indispensable Excellence is the ultimate differentiator. Focus on delivering high-quality products and services that make your business the best choice—regardless of policy changes. Key strategies include: Pursuing additional certifications like Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB), Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), and Veteran-Owned Business (VOSB). Sharpening your business development skills and relationship-building efforts. Continuously improving leadership, problem-solving, and innovation within your company. 6. Find Strength in Networks and Partnerships Navigating change is easier when you have support. Engage with business organizations and advocacy groups that provide resources, training, and networking opportunities. Organizations like the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) and local business chambers can help position your company for success. The Bottom Line The business landscape is evolving, but successful businesses know how to adapt. While these policy shifts introduce new challenges, they do not eliminate opportunities. This is the time to sharpen your skills, seek new partnerships, and ensure your business stands out for its excellence and problem-solving capabilities. Entrepreneurs in urban communities have always found ways to rise above obstacles. This is another moment to innovate, refine strategies, and build businesses that thrive—regardless of the administration in office. Policies may change, but excellence and resilience endure.

LOS ANGELES, CA – On February 6, 2025, Faith and Community Empowerment (FACE) hosted an online L.A. Wildfire Resource Webinar, providing critical information on insurance, mortgage, and economic relief to individuals and businesses impacted by the recent Los Angeles wildfires. The event was designed to help renters, homeowners, small businesses, and nonprofits navigate financial recovery and understand the available support programs. During the webinar, participants had the opportunity to learn about key aspects of wildfire recovery, including insurance claims, mortgage relief options, and maximizing financial assistance for renters. Experts in the field presented in-depth insights, and attendees were invited to join virtual breakout rooms for personalized discussions with more than 25 specialists in financial recovery and disaster assistance. The event featured distinguished speakers, including Fiona Ma, CPA , California State Treasurer , who shared over 40 financial recovery resources available in the California Wildfire Recovery Guide. This guide is accessible for free from the California State Treasurer’s Office at www.treasurer.ca.gov . Jeff Prang , Los Angeles County Assessor, introduced the Online Disaster Relief Filing for Homeowners, a digital solution that allows property owners affected by wildfires to submit Misfortune & Calamity (M&C) Claims electronically. This tool provides homeowners with a streamlined process to access relief at Los Angeles County Assessor. More information here: https://assessor.lacounty.gov/contact/assessor/3 Additionally, a representative from the U.S. Small Business Administration discussed the SBA Disaster Relief Programs, including the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL), which provides financial support for businesses recovering from wildfire damage. More information here: https://lending.sba.gov The program was facilitated by Hyepin Im , Faith and Community Empowerment (FACE) . In addition to Treasurer Ma and County Assessor Prang; the webinar presenters all included Daniel Martinez and Fabien Fernandez, California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) ; Amy Bach , United Policy Holders ; Nadia Segura Narvaez , Bet Tzedek ; Jennifer Ceballos Zamora , BMO ; Rick Whitted and Eric Asiedu , First Citizens Bank; Michelle Scott , City National Bank ; Justin Davis , Hanmi Bank ; Maria Austin , Wells Fargo ; Fernando Garces , MidFirst Bank ; Jeff Keeney , Banner Bank ; Fred Lambright , Mechanics Bank and Tamara Theiler , Pacquita Sayles, and Laura Forbes, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The webinar was made possible through the collaboration of various community and financial institutions. First Citizen’s Bank , Hanmi Bank , MidFirst Bank , United Policy Holders , Jewish Federation of Los Angeles (JFEDLA) , BMO , City National Bank , Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity , Wells Fargo , Los Angeles Sentinel , Urban Business Journal, and Bet Tzedek partnered with FACE to deliver this vital information to the public. About Faith and Community Empowerment (FACE) Faith and Community Empowerment (FACE) is committed to increasing the participation, contribution, and influence of the Asian American community through faith-based and community partnerships. By fostering collaboration between private and public sectors, FACE enhances the capacity of faith-based organizations, nonprofits, and other community-focused initiatives. The organization is dedicated to improving access to essential resources, assisting low-income individuals, and revitalizing communities. Through its initiatives, FACE promotes AAPI Advocacy, ensuring Asian American visibility and inclusion in policymaking. The Faith Leadership program equips faith leaders with tools to create lasting community impact. Homeownership Assistance initiatives provide education and resources to first-time homebuyers, while Youth Development programs empower young individuals with leadership training and essential skills. Additionally, FACE actively supports Community Building, fostering healing and collaboration between diverse communities. FACE’s Impact by the Numbers Over the years, FACE has built a strong network of 800+ community partnerships, including collaborations with the White House and Fortune 500 companies. The organiz ation has successfully trained over 5,000 faith leaders in community development, helping more than 12,000 families and individuals move toward homeownership. Through its efforts, FACE has awarded over $400K in sub-grants to faith-based and community organizations, saved $92M in mortgages from foreclosure, and provided $1.8M in down payment assistance and other financial support. As a HUD-approved Housing Counseling Agency, FACE continues to expand its reach and effectiveness in empowering underserved communities. Those seeking additional information on FACE’s programs and resources can visit www.FACELA.org .

Kellie Todd Griffin | Special to California Black Media Partners We are standing at a crossroads --where our history meets our future. And in this moment, we have to ask ourselves: What would our ancestors do? Over the last six months, we’ve watched companies quietly step away from their commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). And that has left many of us with a hard choice to make because -- let’s be real --letting go of our conveniences isn’t easy. But we have never been a people who choose what’s easy over what’s right. Our legacy is built on struggle, on sacrifice, on knowing that real progress doesn’t come without real work. Almost 70 years ago, the Montgomery Bus Boycott showed us exactly what that work looks like. It wasn’t just about Rosa Parks refusing to give up her seat. It was about an entire community coming together -- pastors, first ladies, labor leaders, business owners, everyday folks -- who said, “Enough.” For 13 months, they walked instead of riding the bus. They organized carpools. They sacrificed their safety, their comfort, and their livelihoods to take a stand. And they won. That boycott didn’t just desegregate buses. It showed the world the power of Black economic resistance. It hit the city’s transit system where it hurt, forcing real change. And when insurance companies tried to shut them down, they found a way. When taxi drivers were threatened for supporting the movement, they kept going. When the world told them no, they answered with action. And we’ve seen that same power time and again. In the 1980s, Rev. Jesse Jackson and Operation PUSH took on Coca-Cola, demanding that the company invest in Black businesses and communities. After just one month of organized pressure, Coca-Cola agreed to funnel millions of dollars into Black-owned enterprises, expand diversity in its workforce, and increase Black representation at the decision-making table. In the 1990s, Jackson and Glenda Gill did it again -- this time with the auto industry. They pushed Japanese car manufacturers to invest in Black suppliers, dealers, and employees, securing $7.2 billion in diversity initiatives from Toyota alone. These movements teach us something critical: Boycotts work. Economic action drives systemic change. But let’s be clear: change requires sacrifice. There will be Black-owned businesses caught in the crossfire. Some will lose shelf space. Some may struggle. And that is a real and difficult truth. But history shows us that without real commitments to equity, they’ll be left behind anyway. Montgomery wasn’t just about civil rights. It was an economic battle. And for a brief moment, we built something incredible -- a fully functioning Black-owned transit system. But when the buses were integrated, that system disappeared. And that should make us think. Because so many Black entrepreneurs today are building businesses out of necessity. They see a need in the market, and they fill it -- not just for profit, but for us. And if they can trust us to support them, then we have to demand more from the places that only see us as consumers.  Last fall, Walmart announced it would no longer focus on DEI, choosing instead to talk about “belonging.” And yet, just weeks later, they rolled out holiday commercials featuring Lorenz Tate, Nia Long and Busta Rhymes -- images carefully designed to speak to us, to our culture, to our spending power. And our spending power is undeniable. Black consumers make up 10% of Walmart’s sales, 8.9% of Target’s. Our economic clout reached $1.6 trillion in 2020. And it’s only growing. Our dollar matters. But this moment isn’t about money. It’s about power. It’s about whether we’re willing to step outside our comfort zones, to punch above our weight class just like our ancestors did. Because our fight has never been about today. It has always been about tomorrow. So, the question is: What kind of future are we willing to build? And what are we willing to sacrifice to get there? Let’s make this happen. About the Author Kellie Todd Griffin is the President & CEO of the California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute. With a deep commitment to equity and justice, she champions initiatives that amplify the voices and influence of Black women across California. Known for her strategic insight and passion for community empowerment, Kellie is a driving force in fostering systemic change and collective progress.