In Indianapolis, Elite Scholar stands out as a beacon of educational excellence, offering tailored tutoring services that cater to each student’s unique learning style.
Founded by Makailya Rice, an educator with a Bachelor of Science in information technology and a Master of Science in student affairs and higher education, the organization embodies her commitment to fostering academic success and personal growth among scholars.
Rice’s extensive experience includes roles as a tutor at the Boys and Girls Club of Terre Haute and Ben Franklin Elementary School, a 4-H Program Coordinator with Purdue Extension and a building substitute at Phalen Leadership Academy 103. Her diverse background informs Elite Scholar’s mission to provide individualized learning experiences that promote leadership, confidence and self-understanding.
Makailya Rice
Elite Scholar offers a range of tutoring packages, both in-person and virtual, designed to address various academic needs. Services include weekly tutoring reports, pre- and post-assessments and customized tutoring kits. Subjects covered span English/language arts, reading, science and math, ensuring a comprehensive approach to education.
The organization’s impact is evident in testimonials from parents who have witnessed significant improvements in their children’s academic performance and confidence.
One parent noted, “My fourth grader is more confident in his academic ability, particularly in math and reading, and he takes joy in his work!”
Elite Scholar’s dedication to personalized education and student empowerment makes it a valuable asset to the Indianapolis community. It exemplifies the positive influence of minority-owned businesses in shaping future leaders.
Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
Road to Reparations in Indianapolis, honoring the legacy of Black Wall Street
Black Leaders Detroit (BLD) proudly announces the 2025 Ride for Equity: Road to Reparations, a powerful cross-country bike ride designed to raise awareness and support for Black entrepreneurs.
Launching May 31, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, this five-week journey will pass through Indianapolis and conclude at Wall Street in New York City near Independence Day.
As part of the national tour, the ride will significantly stop in Indianapolis, Indiana, a city deeply committed to fostering equity and inclusive economic opportunity. The journey will officially launch from the 16 Tech Innovation District, bringing together cyclists, changemakers and supporters nationwide to “move for the movement” and amplify the call to close the racial capital gap.
Photo provided/Black Leaders Detroit
“Speak For Yourself” Community Forum – Indianapolis Stop
As part of its route, the 2025 ride will include “Speak for Yourself” community forums in key cities to foster conversations around race, equity, and economic opportunity. The Indianapolis forum will be held at:
The AMP at 16 Tech Innovation District 1220 Waterway Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46202 Saturday, June 14, 2025 | 5:00 PM
Residents, media and changemakers are encouraged to attend and take part in this critical dialogue.
Get Involved
Black Leaders Detroit invites all to become part of this historic movement — whether by riding, volunteering, donating or spreading the word. Learn more at ride4equity.org
Together, let’s honor the legacy of Black Wall Street and ride for equity, empowerment and economic transformation.
As Arab American Heritage Month spotlights the contributions of Lebanese immigrants and their descendants, few stories resonate as powerfully as Deana Karim.
The founder of Good Dee’s, a thriving keto and allergen-free baking brand, Karim embodies the resilience and ingenuity of her parents, who fled Lebanon’s civil war in the 1970s to build a new life — and legacy — in Texas.
Now a certified Arab-owned business leader and member of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee (ADC) Business Board, Karim’s journey from Austin to New York mirrors the tenacity of her family.
In an interview with the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, Karim reflects on her roots, her parents’ influence and how she transformed her struggle into a mission to redefine “guilt-free” indulgence.
Grains of fortitude
Karim’s entrepreneurial flame kindled in her father’s Austin tailor shop, a business he launched in 1972 with $300 after arriving from Lebanon. His clientele included presidents like Lyndon B. Johnson and George W. Bush.
Her mother, a diabetes patient who crafted sugar-free recipes, instilled in Karim a love for cooking and problem-solving.
“My parents didn’t speak English when they came here. They learned the language, built a reputation and thrived,” Karim said. “They taught me there’s always a solution — you just have to figure it out.”
That lesson propelled her through drawbacks. After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin, Karim worked in digital marketing while juggling motherhood and health struggles.
Diagnosed with prediabetes, she adopted a low-carb lifestyle but found store-bought alternatives lacking.
“I’d bake sugar-free cookies for my sons and my sister said, ‘These are good enough to sell,'” Karim said. “So, I ran with it.”
From kitchen counter to Amazon’s top seller
In 2015, Karim invested $5,000 to launch Good Dee’s, the business name derived from Karim’s nickname “Dee.”
Deana Karim, owner of Good Dee’s, an Arab American owned business. (Photo provided/Good Dee’s)
Her first product, a keto chocolate chip cookie mix, debuted three days before her 31st birthday.
“I always said I wanted to start my first business when I turned 30, and I did so just in time,” Karim joked.
A month later, she discovered she was pregnant with her second son.
The business faced immediate hurdles: scarce specialty ingredients, tight budgets and sleepless nights packaging orders in her New York apartment.
“I’d breastfeed while printing shipping labels,” Karim said. “My husband dropped off packages before he went to work, and I’d stuff them under the stroller for preschool pickup.”
Karim’s perseverance paid off.
Weeks after giving birth, her brownie mix hit No. 1 on Amazon.
“I was recovering with stitches, but I screamed, ‘We did it!'” Karim said. “My husband said, ‘This is your sign to go all in.'”
Now, Good Dee’s offers more than 20 baking mixes and pantry staples, all gluten-free, sugar-free and allergy-friendly. The brand expanded into bakeware, with pans and tools ranking among Amazon’s best sellers.
In 2023, Karim acquired One Food Ram, a gluten-free baking company, and co-founded Fourteen Homes, a kitchenware line.
Deana Karim on nourishing community and heritage
Karim’s Lebanese heritage flavors her work.
Her late mother, a “measure-free” cook, inspired recipes like rosewater-infused cake mixes that evoke Barbosa, a traditional semolina dessert.
“Middle Eastern customers told me, ‘We never thought we’d taste this again without sugar,'” Karim said. “That’s why I do this: to make food inclusive.”
When Karim’s mother died, her online community rallied. Followers who met her mom at Texas pop-ups sent heartfelt messages.
“They felt like they knew her,” Karim said. “She’d experiment with my mixes and post her creations. That connection keeps her spirit alive.”
Karim adds that her Arab American identity weaves into her business ethos.
“My parents escaped the war with nothing,” Karim said. “They taught me courage and humility. I want their story, and ours, to show what is possible.”
The future of Good Dee’s
Karim’s vision extends beyond baking. Her lifestyle brand, Fourteen Homes, offers kitchenware designed to simplify cooking.
“Everything I create solves a problem I’ve had,” Karim said. A gold-toned donut pan and cookie scoops are among her bestsellers.
In the long term, Karim wants to build a holistic brand where “Good Dee’s is a household name,” especially for families managing diabetes or allergies.
“Food shouldn’t be excluded,” Karim said. “My mixes let everyone join the table.”
A message to minority business owners
For Arab Americans navigating new beginnings, Deana Karim channels her parents’ wisdom: “Don’t overthink, just act. My parents didn’t hesitate, and that’s why they succeeded.”
“You don’t need a perfect plan,” she added. “Start small, stay focused and let your community lift you. That’s how legacies grow.”
As for her mother’s pride? Karim paused, her voice soft:
“I hope she’s smiling,” Karim said. “Everything I do carries her love — and her rosewater recipes.”
Good Dee’s products are available at gooddees.com and major retailers. Follow Deana Karim on Instagram @gooddeesmix
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral.For more news from the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
Road to Reparations in Indianapolis, Honoring the Legacy of Black Wall Street
Indianapolis, IN – Black Leaders Detroit (BLD) proudly announces the 2025 Ride for Equity: Road to Reparations, a powerful cross-country bike ride designed to raise awareness and support for Black entrepreneurs. Launching May 31, 2025, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, this five-week journey will pass through Indianapolis and conclude at Wall Street in New York City near Independence Day.
As part of the national tour, the ride will significantly stop in Indianapolis, Indiana, a city deeply committed to fostering equity and inclusive economic opportunity. The journey will officially launch from the 16 Tech Innovation District, bringing together cyclists, changemakers, and supporters nationwide to “move for the movement” and amplify the call to close the racial capital gap.
“We are excited to embark on this monumental journey with our Indianapolis partners,” said Dwan Dandridge, CEO of Black Leaders Detroit. “Together, we can honor the past, inspire the present, and create a future rooted in fairness and equitable access to opportunity.”
Since 2020, Black Leaders Detroit has led a powerful tradition of advocacy through its annual 377-mile bike ride from Detroit to the Mackinac Policy Conference. This yearly event sheds light on the financial barriers faced by Black entrepreneurs. In 2024, more than 250 participants joined a six-mile kickoff ride, with 15 riders committing to multiple journey days. The 2025 Ride for Equity expands that impact, taking the message from Black Wall Street to Wall Street.
(Photo provided/Black Leaders for Detroit)
“The Recorder Media Group is proud to help support this great cause, which aligns with our mission to educate, engage, and empower the communities we serve,” said Robert Shegog, President and CEO of Recorder Media Group. “I urge everyone—individuals, businesses, and institutions alike—to get behind this movement for equity, progress, and lasting economic impact.”
“Speak For Yourself” Community Forum – Indianapolis Stop
As part of its route, the 2025 ride will include “Speak for Yourself” community forums in key cities to foster conversations around race, equity, and economic opportunity. The Indianapolis forum will be held at:
The AMP at 16 Tech Innovation District 1220 Waterway Blvd, Indianapolis, IN 46202 Saturday, June 14, 2025 | 5:00 PM
Residents, media, and changemakers are encouraged to attend and take part in this critical dialogue.
Get Involved
Black Leaders Detroit invites all to become part of this historic movement—whether by riding, volunteering, donating, or spreading the word.
Transformative Family Dentistry is a Black-owned dental practice in Indianapolis, owned and operated by Dr. Kyle Ratliff DDS.
Originally from New Albany, IN, Ratliff graduated from the IU School of Dentistry and opened up a single dentist practice as a way to prove accessibility to his patients. Ratliff specializes in family dentistry, smile makeovers, dental implants and crowns.
“My sole purpose is to provide a nonjudgmental and safe space where we provide treatment based on the patient’s needs and desires,” the website states. “We are committed to giving step-by-step instructions whether it is education of the procedures to laughing gas being provided in treatment to decrease anxiety and fear in the dental chair.”
Transformative Family Dentistry provides general dentistry services, including prevention, diagnosis and treatment of various conditions and diseases of teeth, gums and overall oral health, according to the website.
The dental team at Transformative Family Dentistry consists of Doris Rendon, EFDA; Eria Castro, DA; and Arrington Kohn, EFDA, each of whom is experienced and dedicated to upholding the business’ mission of staying up to date with the latest techniques and equipment, ensuring a comfortable environment and professionalism that exceeds patient expectations.
Transformative Family Dentistry has an office located at 7301 Georgetown Road, Suite 113. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, visit transformdentistry.com. To get in contact, call 317-802-0649.
Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
Indiana has solidified its position as a leader in the life sciences industry, setting a national benchmark in 2024 by becoming the number one state for life sciences exports.
According to the newly released BioCrossroads Annual Report, the state achieved a record-breaking $27 billion in product exports, surpassing California.
In total, the life sciences sector contributed more than $99 billion in economic activity to Indiana last year.
(Photo/BioCrossroads)
“Indiana’s rise to the number one spot highlights the strength of our innovation, manufacturing and logistics capabilities within our life sciences community,” said Vince Wong, president and CEO of BioCrossroads.
BioCrossroads, a key catalyst for this success, played an instrumental role through strategic partnerships and talent development initiatives. Among its accomplishments was securing the Heartland BioWorks Tech Hub, an Economic Development Administration (EDA)-designated project. Supported by $51 million in EDA funding, the Tech Hub launched pivotal programs, including Heartland BioWorks BioTrain and BioLaunch. These initiatives are enhancing biopharmaceutical manufacturing training and providing support to emerging life sciences startups at Indianapolis’ 16 Tech Innovation District.
(Photo/BioCrossroads)
The report also highlighted Indiana’s designation of BioCrossroads as its Industry Talent Association for health care and life sciences. This recognition underscores the organization’s role in developing new career pathways through apprenticeships and partnerships with employers, educators and training providers. With over 70,000 jobs supported by the sector across 3,253 establishments — an increase from the previous year — and an average annual wage of $148,000, the industry’s impact on Indiana’s workforce and economy is profound.
(Photo/BioCrossroads)
The sector’s momentum is further reflected in the $260 million in venture capital investments across 36 deals, more than 100 FDA approvals and 926 new patents recorded in 2024. These milestones were complemented by expanded innovation efforts, such as the IU Launch Accelerator for Biosciences, the AXIS Mentoring Program and the Odyssey Group, which foster collaboration and growth within Indiana’s life sciences ecosystem.
(Photo/BioCrossroads)
BioCrossroads also elevated Indiana’s prominence through thought leadership events, including its first sold-out Life Sciences Summit and FrameWORX sessions that explored topics like nuclear medicine and workforce development.
“Indiana’s life sciences sector continues to grow because of the way we work together,” said Dan Peterson, chair of the BioCrossroads board of directors.
Trusted Mentors, in conjunction with Martin University and many community sponsors, hosts the Second Chance Expo Job and Resource Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 25 at the university’s campus at 2186 North Sherman Drive.
The event provides justice-impacted individuals access to job opportunities, workshops and valuable resources for a fresh start.
Martin University President Sean Huddleston knows how important events like the Second Chance Expo are to the community.
“Martin University continues to be a valuable community resource for individuals seeking to improve their lives and provide a better future for their families,” Huddleston said. “We are proud that we are an institution whose mission is centered on offering second chances and giving individuals a new beginning.”
Keidrain Brewsterduring a TEDx Talk. (Photo/Big Reform Movement website)
Inspiring keynote speeches from Keidrain “Bossman” Brewster, an entrepreneur and founder of Big Reform, and Tanaine Jenkins, a reentry strategist and business owner.
Additionally, the expo features panel discussions, networking opportunities and food trucks.
The expo is free and open to the public. Registration is available at bit.ly/3QXUa23 or by texting “EXPO” to 317-985-5041.
List of community partners for Second Chance Expo
Catholic Archdiocese of Indianapolis Prison Ministries
Fathers and Families Center
Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana
Martin University
Office of Public Health and Safety
RecycleForce/Keys2Work
REFORM Alliance Indiana
Step-Up Inc.
Trusted Mentors
2nd Chance Indiana
Constructing Our Future
Public Advocates in Community Re-Entry (PACE)
Thomas Ridley’s 1 Like Me
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846. Follow him on X @3Noral. For more news from the Indianapolis Recorder, click here. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magzine, click here.
VS Engineering, a certified Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and one of the Midwest’s leading civil engineering consulting firms, is the Vendor of the Month for April by the Office of Minority and Women Business Development (OMWBD).
The recognition highlights the firm’s decades-long commitment to excellence, community impact and mentorship of other minority-owned businesses.
History of VS Engineering
Founded in 1980 by Bhagwan C. Patel (BC), VS Engineering began as a home office operation and has since grown into a regional powerhouse with eleven locations across Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky.
Now led by Patel’s son, Sanjay Patel, the firm employs over 180 professionals and provides high-quality, cost-effective engineering solutions to municipalities, counties and private sector clients.
“VS Engineering is honored and proud to be recognized as the Vendor of the Month by the Office of Minority and Women Business Development,” Sanjay Patel said. “Through partnerships with OMWBD and the Indianapolis Department of Public Works, we have been able to work on critical infrastructure projects across the City of Indianapolis. As a prime consultant, we pride ourselves in supporting other XBE firms in the city as a mentor.”
The firm’s success is rooted in its core values: client-focused service, trust, knowledge and collaborative hard work. These principles have earned VS Engineering accolades, including two ACEC Engineering Excellence Awards for projects in the Indianapolis area. Beyond its professional achievements, the company fosters a vibrant workplace culture, hosting events like ping pong tournaments and annual chili cook-offs to build employee camaraderie.
The community support of VS Engineering
District 5 City-County Councilor Maggie Lewis praised VS Engineering for its contributions to the community. “Through dedication and hard work, VS Engineering has grown into one of the largest manufacturing engineering companies in the Midwest,” Lewis said. “From job creation to implementing impactful engineering designs and construction projects, we are proud to have them in District 5 and look forward to celebrating their success for many years.”
Community engagement is a cornerstone of VS Engineering’s mission. The firm supports organizations such as the Special Olympics, Engineers Without Borders, Gleaner Food Bank and the Indianapolis Parks Foundation. Employees also participate in environmental clean-ups and other service initiatives.
OMWBD Director David Fredricks commended the firm’s holistic approach to business.
“VS Engineering demonstrates the excellence our office seeks to bring out in businesses through their commitment to quality and customer service, along with their innovative mindset and passion for the communities they work in,” Fredricks said.
For more information on VS Engineering, visit their website at vsengineering.com.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on X @3Noral. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
Indy Loves Coffee began in 2015 as a blog celebrating Indianapolis’s growing coffee culture. What started as a casual exploration of local cafés quickly became a deeper passion for coffee, prompting the founders to dive into home brewing.
Their dedication paid off in 2017 when they won first place in Indianapolis’s inaugural Brewer’s Cup, hosted by Tinker Coffee.
In 2023, Indy Loves Coffee officially became a home-based micro roastery.
(Photo/Indy Loves Coffee)
The business now focuses on roasting and selling high-quality coffee beans to Indiana residents. Each roast is crafted with care and attention to detail, highlighting the unique flavor profiles of beans sourced from around the world. Indy Loves Coffee also places a strong emphasis on sharing the stories of the farmers and producers behind each batch, aiming to connect customers with the origins of their brew.
Their online shop features a rotating selection of whole bean coffees, which are roasted in small batches to ensure freshness and consistency. From bright and fruity single origins to rich, balanced blends, the offerings are curated to satisfy a variety of coffee lovers. The team also shares brewing tips and methods to help customers get the best cup from each roast.
(Photo/Indy Loves Coffee)
While they currently sell directly to consumers in Indiana, Indy Loves Coffee plans to expand into wholesale. The long-term goal is to see their beans available in local coffee shops and grocery stores across the city.
Coffee enthusiasts can stay connected by signing up for the Indy Loves Coffee newsletter or following the brand on Instagram and Facebook for product updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
Founded in 1995 by Joann Carter, The Jewelry Lady is a Black- and family-owned business located in the heart of Indianapolis.
Carter got her start in the industry by selling jewelry at local beauty and barbershops, coining the nickname “The Jewelry Lady.” In 2005, Carter opened her storefront with the same nickname and ran the business with the help of her sisters before later teaching the trade to her daughters.
Now specializing in custom design with hand-picked diamonds and gemstones, The Jewelry Lady takes pride in providing the community with personalized, high-quality fine jewelry at affordable prices.
“Our team of gifted jewelry designers is always prepared to collaborate with you, crafting one-of-a-kind treasures that mirror your unique tastes and personality,” the website states. “Whether it’s a custom engagement ring embodying your distinctive journey or a stunning accessory that adds the perfect finishing touch, we are wholeheartedly devoted to bringing your visions to life.”
Carter runs the store alongside her youngest daughter and jewelry designer Ashley Perryman and sales associate Chancey Brandon. Customers can schedule a free consultation with Carter, Perryman or Brandon to design their own custom piece of jewelry or shop in-store and online from a selection of fashion rings, loose diamonds and permanent jewelry.
The Jewelry Lady’s storefront is at Castle Key Shoppes, 4507 E. 82nd St. For more information or to book an appointment, visit jewelryladydesigns.com. To get in contact call 317-578-2500.
Contact Arts & Culture Reporter Chloe McGowan at 317-762-7848. Follow her on X @chloe_mcgowanxx. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
