Whitney Barnett, owner of Cibo Catering and Events. (Photo via Facebook)
Whitney Barnett founded Cibo Catering and Events, a Black-owned, woman-owned catering business based in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Barnett, a professional chef since 2012, turned her love for soul food and Italian cuisine into a full-fledged business. It is in the business’ name, as the word ‘cibo’ is Italian for ‘food.’ The company, as its name implies, caters events of all sizes.
Although Cibo Catering is headquartered in Indianapolis, it is not restricted to one locale. The business also serves Dallas, Texas and Los Angeles, California.
Barnett also owns the Positive Foodie Vibes Brand and is a diligent food access advocate.
For order inquiries, contact Cibo Catering and Events at 317-361-6361 or cibo.creations@gmail.com.
Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham created this minority business highlight. Contact him at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
Have you ever wondered what makes some organizations, churches or charities so great at fundraising? The answer is not simple, but it is often connected to their ability to maintain a robust development program.
In the nonprofit world, development typically refers to fundraising and building donor relationships, while in the for-profit world, it might mean business development and strategic partnerships – but in both cases, it’s about driving growth.
Throughout my career, I have worked with local and global organizations on both the nonprofit and for-profit sides, helping them achieve growth through strategic partnerships, capital growth initiatives and multi-million-dollar expansions. What I have learned is that the differences between most nonprofits and for-profits are not as great as people think. Both thrive when they have a strong focus on development and are committed to growing their mission or business.
A development program is more than just the ability for a person to make donation requests or discuss with a company why they should partner with you. When done correctly, development is a skilled art form of meticulously building relationships over time, communicating the organization’s story, products and services, and generating resources that will create opportunities for your organization.
Organizations, whether for-profit or non-profit, must be intentional about creating a culture of growth within all areas of their business. Everyone from the CEO to frontline workers should understand the mission and be able to convey it passionately to potential supporters.
When people within an organization can confidently speak about their individual program and connect it to the larger mission with clarity, enthusiasm and joy, it shows that the organization has successfully tapped into the inner development leader that exists in every team member.
No matter what type of institution you are running (for-profit, nonprofit, religious, etc.), if you made it this far into the reading, you’re probably wondering, “What does a ‘robust development program’ actually look like in practice?”. Regardless of the size of the organization, there must be a relationship builder.
“Meaningful relationships take time to build and produce, so an organization must be equipped to play the long game.”
A strong organization will invest in a development officer who has the sole purpose of connecting with stakeholders across all levels. Meaningful relationships take time to build and produce, so an organization must be equipped to play the long game.
Secondly, an effective development team is a team of strategists and executors. Too often, development teams are stuck in the inescapable cycle of ideation and not implementation. Strategic processes and planning tend to be research-driven and data-reliant, with the aim of still driving cultivation while planning future growth and expansion. This leads me to my third point, data and tools.
There are a variety of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tools available that might meet your needs. Finding the best CRM tool for your organization is key to developing long-lasting relationships and tracking the progress of your supporters.
Having a strong data model will accelerate your ability to do research on your market and grow your portfolio or list of constituents. The more information you collect, the more informed your strategies will be and the higher success rates your development team will have.
Lastly, a robust development program should have a clear, concise and repeatable story. What message are you conveying to your broader audience, and why is this message important to them? Getting a donation or business deal is not the end of the relationship; it’s the beginning of a longer journey.
“How you engage with your constituents is how they will engage with you.”
High-performing organizations put strong emphasis on stewardship by thanking supporters, keeping them updated on progress and involving them in the mission over time. How you engage with your constituents is how they will engage with you.
No matter if your constituency consists of 40 tithe-paying members or 100 Fortune 500 companies, you must find what is important to them and what keeps them committed to your work to keep that fire ignited in them.
Thesecret behind those organizations that seem to effortlessly fundraise and expand isn’t luck. It’s the strong development teams and strategies working behind the scenes.
Nonprofit or for-profit, the principle holds: nurture the connections that drive your mission, and your mission will thrive. As a development professional, I’ve seen firsthand that when you commit to these practices, the sky becomes your base.
Rev. Joty T. Allison is a business development, fundraising strategist, and ordained clergy with more than 20 years of experience helping organizations grow through strategic partnerships, capital campaigns, and sustainable development planning. He can be reached at joty.allison@outlook.com.
The Indy Melanated Birthworker Collective (IMBC) is a grassroots organization committed to supporting and empowering Black birth workers in Indianapolis.
Since its founding in 2020, IMBC has created a safe and nurturing space for Black doulas, midwives and other birth professionals to connect, share resources and advocate for equitable maternal care in the community.
IMBC’s programs are designed to address the unique challenges faced by Black birth workers and the families they serve. The organization offers mentorship opportunities, professional development programs and community outreach initiatives, all aimed at fostering a more culturally competent and inclusive birth environment. Through these efforts, IMBC provides tools and guidance that help birth workers succeed professionally while also improving maternal and infant health outcomes in Black communities.
IMBC is a grassroots organization that supports Black birth workers in Indianapolis. (Photo/meetimbc.org)
Beyond professional support, IMBC emphasizes community collaboration and empowerment. Members of the collective work together to raise awareness about disparities in maternal health care and advocate for systemic change. By promoting culturally responsive practices and elevating Black voices in the birth industry, IMBC hopes to ensure that families in Indianapolis have access to care that is safe, respectful and affirming.
The collective’s approach highlights the importance of both professional development and community engagement, recognizing that the health and well-being of mothers and infants are deeply connected to social and cultural support networks.
For those interested in learning more about the Indy Melanated Birthworker Collective or getting involved, information is available on their official website at meetimbc.org.
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.
Comfort Living Residential Shared Home, LLC, is an Indianapolis-based transitional living community dedicated to empowering residents to regain independence.
Founded by Donnell Dillion, Comfort Living isn’t just offering shelter but providing clients with “a place where hope grows and lives are transformed,” according to the website. Comfort Living’s residential homes are “thoughtfully designed” to provide clients a safe, comfortable transitional living space in a welcoming and supportive environment where they can regain stability.
“At Comfort Living Residential Shared Home, LLC, we understand that a home is more than just a place — it’s a foundation for growth, stability and community,” the website states. “We pride ourselves on creating spaces where people not only find shelter but also discover a sense of belonging, comfort and the tools to thrive.”
The organization takes pride in maintaining comfortable shared homes, community support, access to resources — such as employment, education opportunities — guidance and empowerment. Other services include planned community activities, medication reminders, nutritional meals, basic necessities and transportation.
Homes are open to any individual in transitional living situations seeking support and stability. The length of one’s stay can vary based on individual needs and when they feel ready to transition to independent living.
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.
Uvaldo Mondragon is the owner of Amez International Imports LLC, a minority-owned business based in Brownsburg, Indiana.
The company is known for transporting fresh produce such as avocados, bananas, berries, and other fruits and vegetables. Amez International Imports also transports refrigerated products such as meat, seafood and beverages, typically shipped fresh or frozen.
Unlike other similar services, Amez International Imports owns its fleet of trucks, which ultimately helps keep costs down.
In August 2025, Mondragon, alongside his wife Alejandra and her business, La Victoriana Brands, completed the “Coaching for Impact” program created by Chase Bank. The program concentrates on five key areas: the power of capital, cash flow management, building a team of trusted advisors, marketing and cybersecurity.
Mondragon, who has over twenty years of industry experience, emphasized the significance of sharing the knowledge learned in the program. He acknowledged that despite his extensive background, programs like those from Chase Bank better equipped him for success.
“If I didn’t have the experience I have now and I started, I would have failed in six months,” Mondragon told the Indiana Minority Business Magazine. “You have to have the knowledge. [Coaching for Impact] program is very important to learn before you start.”
Learn more about Amez International Imports by contacting them via phone at 773-981-2863.
This business highlight was written by Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham. Contact him at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on Facebook and TikTok @HorsemenSportsMedia. If you want your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
Take.Two is a justice-involved organization dedicated to helping people become “better than their past.” Led by founder and CEO Kourtnee and COO Victor T. Woods, Take.Two works with individuals with disabilities and criminal backgrounds.
“We believe that helping and being charitable to others who have to deal with re-entry into society will not be difficult but provide avenues that will give them hope for a positive change,” the website states. “We also believe that it’s not how you start, it’s how you finish.”
Services offered through Take.Two include housing, employment and education assistance, appliance rentals, free Pack N Plays and basic business courses. The organization also assists employers with staffing needs.
Take.Two serves health care agencies, warehouses, retail spaces, large nonprofits and corporations with more than 50 employees as well as long-term care facilities and construction companies, according to the website.
Take.Two operates out of 55 S State Street Suite 306. For more information or to book a service, visittaketwoindy.com. To get in contact, call 317-455-3101 or email Take.Two22@yahoo.com.
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.
In today’s fast-changing business world, staying ahead often means solving problems that slow teams down. Optimist Business Solutions, a minority- and woman-owned firm based in Indianapolis, is helping organizations do that through a unique blend of process improvement and artificial intelligence (AI).
Known for addressing issues like costly delays, shrinking revenue and disorganized data, Optimist builds clear, efficient systems designed to boost results. The company has guided clients to measurable improvements, including cutting client intake times by 40% and closing significant data management gaps.
At the core of Optimist’s mission is making AI accessible and practical. Professionals learn to integrate tools such as ChatGPT and workflow automations into their daily routines through workshops, coaching and online programs. These skills help clients save time, improve decision-making and adapt to changing markets.
Optimist’s impact is being recognized. The Better Business Bureau recently accredited the firm, highlighting its commitment to transparency and service excellence. Its diverse client base includes executives, nonprofit leaders and corporate teams, all seeking innovative ways to meet their goals.
The company is also preparing to launch its next Virtual AI Training on Sept. 8, conveniently scheduled over lunch. Designed for participants at any level of AI confidence, the training helps professionals apply technology in simple, human-centered ways.
With a focus on innovation and results, Optimist Business Solutions is proving that the future of work doesn’t have to be overwhelming — it can be empowering.
Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.If you want your business highlighted by the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
The Indy Chamber has appointed Martina Jackson as its new Senior Director of Public Relations and Communications.
Jackson, an Indianapolis native, brings more than a decade of experience in nonprofit marketing, social media strategy and visual storytelling. In her role, she will lead the Chamber’s communications and media relations efforts with a focus on shaping how the organization communicates its mission to accelerate economic growth, support local businesses and strengthen the Indianapolis region.
“Martina is an innovative communicator whose work bridges storytelling and strategy in a way that inspires engagement and action,” said Blaine Zimmerman, chief talent and marketing officer of the Indy Chamber. “Her ability to craft narratives that resonate across communities will be an incredible asset as we continue to position Indianapolis as a vibrant regional hub for business, talent, and opportunity.”
Martina Jackson (Photo/Indy Chamber)
Jackson’s career includes founding and leading Drea & Co., a marketing agency focused on mission-driven organizations. She has also held fractional leadership roles with the Black AIDS Institute and BU Wellness Network, where she expanded digital engagement by triple-digit percentages. In addition, Jackson is the founder and CEO of Pixus Inc., the company behind CaptureNoire, an award-winning mobile app recognized nationally for inclusive tech innovation.
Her work has earned recognition from multiple organizations, including Indiana University’s College of Arts and Sciences, which named her to its 20 Under 40 list. She has also been selected as a Creative Fellow with the Indianapolis Arts Council and has won several pitch competitions and innovation grants.
(Photo/Indy Chamber)
Jackson holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and Philosophy from Indiana University and is fluent in Japanese. Beyond her professional endeavors, she co-founded Create. Connect. Collab and serves as Marketing Chair for Friends of Belmont.
With Jackson joining the Chamber’s marketing and communications team, the organization aims to expand its storytelling, outreach and engagement strategies while highlighting Indianapolis as a destination for business and talent.
The Indianapolis-Marion County City-County Council has appointed Natissa S. Woodard to the Indianapolis Public Library Board of Trustees.
Her term will run through July 2029.
Woodard brings extensive experience in strategic development and staff leadership. She works as a global customer success manager for Roach Diagnostics. She has also worked with nonprofit and civic organizations.
Woodard is a graduate of Indiana University in Bloomington. She earned a Bachelor of Science in secondary education, focusing on literature.
She is also deeply involved in the local community. Woodard is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She serves the Emerging Pearls Foundation and the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. She is also an active member of Crossroads AME Church.
“The library is a place of access, belonging and lifelong learning,” Woodard said. “It provides knowledge, connection and a safe, welcoming space for all.”
The Library Board of Trustees oversees the system’s governance and strategic direction. Its monthly meetings are open to the public and typically take place on the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on TikTok and Facebook @HorsemenSportsMedia.For more business news, click here.
Collins Ave LLC, a premium black-owned wine brand founded by entrepreneur Curtis Collins, is establishing a new presence in the luxury beverage market by making high-end champagne accessible to a broader, diverse audience.
The brand offers a portfolio of sparkling wines crafted in the renowned Champagne region of France. At its core, Collins Ave includes a dry Brut, a fruit-forward Rosé and a premium Prestige Cuvée, all designed to cater to both champagne connoisseurs and new enthusiasts.
Collins, who is only in his twenties, identified a gap in the market for a luxury champagne brand that resonated with urban culture and communities often overlooked by traditional prestige marketing.
His vision, to create a product that maintains the highest quality of craftsmanship while embodying a spirit of inclusive celebration and modern luxury, is evident in his products.
Business owner Curtis Collins (right) and Chase Bank business consultant Shellie Vernon (Left) during the Coaching for Impact program graduation on August 21, 2025 at Chase Bank in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo provided/Chase Bank)
In 2025, Collins Ave graduated from Chase Bank’s ‘Coaching for Impact,’ a program tailored to small business owners and entrepreneurs to empower them with financial coaching, networking opportunities and community building.
“The biggest (Coaching for Impact) takeaway for me would be the relationships,” Collins told the Indiana Minority Business Magazine. “The power of a village and networking has been very impactful. It’s a great gateway to connect with people you may not typically work with or even meet.”
More about Collins Ave Champagne
(Photo via Collins Ave LLC official website.)
Moreover, the brand has gained significant traction through strategic placements in high-end restaurants, hotels and retail partners across the United States. Its growth is also fueled by a direct-to-consumer e-commerce platform, allowing it to build a dedicated national following.
Beyond its product, the company emphasizes community engagement and representation. As a successful black-owned business in the competitive alcohol industry, Collins Ave serves as an inspiration and a model for diversity in entrepreneurship.
Contact Multi-Media & Senior Sports Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder.com. Follow him on Facebook and TikTok @Horsemensportsmedia. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.
