Startup Non-Profit Breaks Barriers for Black-owned Business
(Kansas City, MO) – Startup non-profit Generating Income for Tomorrow (G.I.F.T.) has created a new model for growing Black-owned business in Kansas City’s urban core, achieving extraordinary success in only two years. Founded in May 2020, G.I.F.T has already given $687,000 worth of grants, helping 35 black-owned business to expand and creating 58 new jobs in Kansas City’s urban core. In spring of 2022, the organization opened the G.I.F.T. Business Center to provide technical resources to even more black-owned businesses.
“Through G.I.F.T. we are striving to break down the barriers to growth and success for Black-owned business,” said Brandon Calloway, CEO and co-founder of G.I.F.T. “We find that Black businesses in high poverty areas face not only a lack of financing, but also a lack of relationships and network.”
In addition to funding, G.I.F.T. grant recipients receive a year of technical assistance with access to business coaching, accounting and law services. The new G.I.F.T. Business Center enables the organization to broaden its reach by providing technical assistance to black-owned businesses beyond its grant recipients.
G.I.F.T. has a specific interest in helping existing businesses that operate in low-income areas to grow. By creating more jobs, the organization hopes to convert an economically disadvantaged area into an area of economic opportunity.
“Because we focus on providing grants for business to be able to grow their capacity, we are able to make a very big impact,” says Calloway. “We are averaging one new job created for every $10,000 in grant funding we provide.”
In the next five years, G.I.F.T. plans to secure fundraising to sustain its efforts in the Kansas City market and then begin to replicate the model in other communities.
G.I.F.T.’s impact is gaining considerable traction and notice in its region in a very short time. The Kansas City Business Journal calls G.I.F.T.’s grant program “one of Kansas City’s most important funders of Black-owned business.”
Brandon Calloway grew up in the urban core of Kansas City and has long been committed to finding ways to create transformative change in the areas of the city that need it most. Harnessing his combined 10 years of experience in the business and nonprofit sectors, Calloway drives the work happening at G.I.F.T. to have a direct impact on closing Kansas City’s racial wealth gap.
Founded in 2020, Generating Income For Tomorrow (G.I.F.T.) is a movement dedicated to cementing a better future for all. G.I.F.T. provides grants and technical support to Black-owned businesses in Kansas City, with a specific interest in businesses that operate in low-income areas. Strengthening and growing these small businesses creates more jobs and potentially converts an economically disadvantaged area into an area of economic opportunity. G.I.F.T. strive to be an actionable step to closing the racial wealth gap, reducing poverty-related crime and reversing the effects of systemic racism. Kansascitygift.org
October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com
As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.
Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.
