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Minority Business Highlight: Indy Fresh Market

Jade Jackson
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Minority Business Highlight: Indy Fresh Market

Indy Fresh Market, a new grocery store opened up off E. 38 Street and Sheridan Avenue on the city’s east side. Access to a new store brought much-needed relief to one of the biggest food deserts in the city.  

Co-owner, Marcus Williams grew up on the east side and said there were more grocery stores when he was a kid, but they have since closed.

“We need food around here,” said co-owner Marcus Williams, “So, this store has been in the planning process for about three years. Kroger’s gone. Safeway is gone. Walmart’s gone. The closest store is five miles away. So, we had to do something to provide for the community.”

RELATED: Minority Business Highlight: The Herron Academy of Beauty & Therapeutic Wellness

Minority Business Highlight: Indy Fresh Market

The locally black-owned store has been in the works for nearly three years and saw more than 1,000 customers walk through the doors a the soft opening. 

Co-owner Michael McFarland said he has known Williams since the 6th grade.

“This is also the neighborhood I grew up in and it feels good to give back. Most of the people we have working here are taking advantage of our second chance opportunity. A lot of them are on probation or house arrest,” said McFarland.

“You might be a stocker today, but you could be a manager or supervisor tomorrow. These are our people. We’re coming back to a neighborhood we grew up in and giving back.”

Indy Fresh Market

Minority Business Highlight: Indy Fresh Market

The new full-service, 16,772-square-foot grocery store is a collaboration between Cook, IMPACT Central Indiana, Martin University, neighborhood leaders, Goodwill, the City of Indianapolis, the State of Indiana, Michael McFarland & Marckus Williams and national grocery store expert Joe The Grocer.

According to Indy Food Policy over 200,000 Indianapolis residents live in a food desert, and 10,500 live without access to a car or bus to reach grocery stores. To be considered a food desert more than 33% of an urban population must live more than one mile from a grocery store.

With a steadfast commitment to tackling food insecurity, fostering neighborhood ownership, and providing access to affordable, nutritious food, Indy Fresh Market has successfully established a model that will positively impact the community and address its needs.

“Food is a necessity for life. Now, we have access to healthy foods in the community. It feels amazing to get all the great feedback,” said Williams.

This minority business highlight was composed by Jade Jackson at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at (317) 762-7853 or via email at JadeJ@IndyRecorder.com.

If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here!”

Minority Business Highlight: A Cup of Chai

CHLOE McGOWAN
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Minority Business Highlight: A Cup of Chai

A Cup of Chai is Indy’s first authentic Indian chai café in Fountain Square.

Pravy Nijjar, the owner of A Cup of Chai, opened her shop in July 2023 to pursue her lifelong dream of running her own tea café after years of working a conventional 9-to-5 job. 

Having spent a large portion of her life growing up in India, Nijjar said she developed “a deep affection” for chai, as the drink represents cherished memories from “family gatherings in the evenings, a comforting drink enjoyed while unwinding in front of the TV at night, or the perfect accompaniment to spicy Indian snacks on a rainy day.” 

Chai, the primary menu item, is an aromatic and flavorful tea popular in many cultures, including India and parts of South Asia. The tea is known for its combination of cinnamon, cardamom, ginger and cloves brewed with warm milk, and Nijjar’s shop features a number of flavored chai, cappuccinos and lattes as well as nimbu pani (masala lemonade), Rooh Afza (rose drink) and mango lassi. 

Everything is made fresh in-house, all spices are ground fresh each day and they do not use any artificial syrups Customers can also choose what kind of milk they prefer and the sugar level of their drinks. 

Located at 1028 Shelby St., Nijjar aims for her shop to be a place where “people from all walks of life can come together, share their stories, and forge connections,” according to her website. For more information, visit acupofchai.us. To get in contact, call 317-998-4463 or email contact@acupofchai.us.

This minority business highlight was composed by CHLOE McGOWAN at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at 317-762-7848 or via email at chloegm@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here!

Tea’s Me Café named October 2023 Certified Vendor of the Month 

Braxton Babb
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Tea’s Me Café named October 2023 Certified Vendor of the Month 

Mayor Joe Hogsett and David Fredricks, director of the Office of Minority and Women Business Development, recognized Tea’s Me Café as the October 2023 Certified Vendor of the month on Sept. 27. The café has three different locations and is known for its premium loose-leaf teas, delicious food and atmosphere. Former Fever player and four-time Olympic gold medalist Tamika Catchings bought the establishment in 2017 once learning that the owners were planning on closing.  

“While many of us know Tamika as a basketball hall-of-famer and Olympic champion, she is proving just as adept at business and community advocacy,” said Hogsett. “As October’s Vendor of the Month for OMWBD, Tamika and her shops exemplify a growing, diverse, and locally owned business landscape.” 

Tea’s Me Café is also the home of Catchings’ Catch the Stars Foundation. The foundation focuses on providing underprivileged youth ages 6-18 programs on fitness, literacy and character development.  

The café recently expanded, opening two locations in Tarkington Park and Ivy Tech. The café has also been named the Next Door’s Neighborhood Fave for Best Breakfast & Brunch Spot and Best Coffee Shop from 2017-2023 and received the Indiana Equity, Inclusion & Opportunity Award, highlighting the minority women-owned business’ impact on the community. 

“We are excited for Tea’s Me to be the October Vendor of the Month. This award is a huge testament to our Tea’s Me team and our adaptability, especially as we’ve navigated the past three years,” Catchings said. “We don’t serve to get accolades but being recognized for the great work we’re doing inside and outside the café is wonderful.” 

To learn more about Tea’s Me Café and its different locations, visit www.teasmeindy.com. 

This minority business highlight was composed by Multimedia Staff Reporter Braxton Babb at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at (317)762-7854 or via email at BraxtonB@IndyRecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here! 

Circle Centre Mall invites the public to support small business this Saturday 

JAYDEN KENNETT
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Circle Centre Mall invites the public to support small business this Saturday 

Circle Centre Mall is hosting its monthly Small Business Showcase Sept. 30 in the Level 3 Dining Pavilion. Shoppers will have the opportunity to explore a variety of goods while supporting small businesses in Indianapolis. The event is free to the public.  

“Through the Small Business Showcase, we are offering mall patrons a unique shopping experience and exposing local entrepreneurs to new audiences,” says Circle Centre Mall Vice President, General Manager Luke Aeschliman. 

Small Business Showcases takes place each month. Next month’s showcase is Saturday, Oct. 28 from noon to 6 p.m. Interested small businesses can secure their spot in the showcase by completing the online registration through Eventbrite.  

Details can also be found on Facebook.  

Contact staff writer Jayden Kennett at 317-762-7847 or by email JaydenK@indyrecorder.com. Follow her on Twitter @JournoJay.

Minority Business Highlight: Black Tennis Connect 

Noral Parham
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Minority Business Highlight: Black Tennis Connect 

Black Tennis Connect is a nonprofit organization based in Indianapolis, Indiana. Founded in 2021 by Kenyata Senu, Black Tennis Connect aims to foster the Black tennis community in Indianapolis via innovation. 

The organization collaborates with tennis competitions across the nation, forging partnerships that generate opportunities for marginalized communities to access tennis events free of charge. With strategic partnerships, the organization champions diversity and inclusivity for everyone to engage in the amazing world of tennis.

Indiana Minority Business Magazine; Getty Images; Black Tennis Connect; Minority Business Highlight; Women-owned
(Photo/Getty Images)

Through the years, the organization has partnered with the United States Tennis Association (USTA), U.S. Open, Winston-Salem Open at Wake Forest University and many others. 

The organization’s ongoing meetup, known as Tennis Tuesdays, has ventured across the city since its origin. The organization hosted its weekly meetup at Tarkington Park Sept. 26. 

Additionally, the organization meets for tennis and fellowship throughout the year, with more events scheduled for Sept. 30 and Oct. 1. 

The organization also has a chapter located in Charlotte, North Carolina. 

Those interested in getting in touch with Black Tennis Connect can visit their website here. The mailing address for Black Tennis Connect is 55 Monument Circle, Suite 929, Indianapolis, IN 46204. 

This minority business highlight was composed by multi-media staff writer Noral Parham III at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at 317-762-7846 or via email at noralp@indyrecorder. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here!

Minority Business Highlight: Black Onyx  

JAYDEN KENNETT
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Minority Business Highlight: Black Onyx  

Black Onyx Management is a Black-owned research firm and management consultancy with a mission to help organizations leverage their full potential and make shifts for equity and opportunity.

Black Onyx offers services in research and evaluation services, philanthropy, economic development, community engagement and strategic communications, fundraising, and training. Black Onyx works with organizations to leverage their strengths while empowering Black communities.  

Visit their website here.  

Contact Black Onyx at 317-258-6429 or by email at projectmanager@blackonyxmanagement.com. 

This minority business highlight was written by Jayden Kennett at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at 317-762-7847 or by email JaydenK@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here! 

From pandemic creativity to thriving business: The story of Living in the Moment Events

STAFF
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From pandemic creativity to thriving business: The story of Living in the Moment Events

By CASEY HARRISON

In the midst of the pandemic’s uncertainty and restrictions in 2021, Living in the Moment Events emerged as a shining example of entrepreneurial innovation. Founder and CEO, Brandy Ferguson saw an opportunity to celebrate safely, and the idea gradually evolved into a thriving business. Here’s how this unique journey developed into a space where the entire community can celebrate all of their precious moments.

A creative spark amidst adversity

As the pandemic continued to disrupt daily life, Brandy realized that people were eager to celebrate special occasions but hesitant to venture out. This realization became the spark for Living in the Moment Events. “As we began to learn more, and people became more comfortable with smaller, intimate gatherings, I was constantly contracted to go to different homes to decorate for celebrations. It was a way for people to have parties without leaving home in a way that felt safer. But I quickly got tired of the shuffle between homes, and I decided to contact a commercial realtor to see what spaces were on the market! I knew I could follow any state and/or county guidelines safely under one roof.”

Consulting with a commercial realtor, Brandy embarked on a journey to find the perfect location. And after months of searching around Indy, the team discovered a space that they knew would house the future business. After months of renovations, totaling over $25,000, the venue was transformed into an intimate and picturesque location for weddings and events of all varieties.

Surprising success and valuable advice

One of the most surprising aspects of Living in the Moment Events has been its remarkable success. Since its inception, the venue has hosted over 1,000 events, ranging from meetings and parties to weddings—but the success wasn’t overnight.

“The journey to business ownership quite literally is an unending journey, but it all starts with one must—you have to believe in yourself first. I realized very quickly that I had full confidence in the business I was bringing to market, and in doing so, I was giving everyone a reason to believe in that business long before the doors of Living in the Moment Events opened to the public.”

Living in the Moment Events stands out in the industry due to its dual role as both a travel agency and an event venue. This unique approach allows them to accompany couples from engagement to honeymoon—offering a comprehensive wedding planning experience. As the only venue in Indianapolis providing such services, the business seeks to attract more couples who appreciate Cabaret-style, modern weddings. Additionally, they aim to expand their services by hosting more daytime meetings and seminars for the corporate and philanthropic communities.

Future growth and community engagement

Looking ahead, Living in the Moment Events envisions expanding its reach through community events—events that are already on the calendar.

“At Living in the Moment Events, we pride ourselves on being a part of the community, which means we collaborate on initiatives like back-to-school events, breakfast meetings, and the upcoming Indy Business Shower. This event provides valuable resources to small, primarily diverse businesses, and reflects our dedication to fostering connections that support our community in impactful ways. These services will only strengthen as our business matures.”

Living in the Moment Events is a testament to the power of creativity and determination in the face of adversity. What started as a pandemic-inspired idea has evolved into a thriving business, offering a unique combination of event services and travel planning. With a track record of success and a commitment to community engagement, Brandy and Living in the Moment Events are poised for a bright and dynamic future, continuing to make special moments unforgettable for their clients.

To learn more or register to attend the Indy Business Shower, please visit the website.

Minority Business Highlight: Black Worldschoolers Mobile Bookstore

Jade Jackson
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Minority Business Highlight: Black Worldschoolers Mobile Bookstore

Black Worldschoolers Mobile Bookstore is a bookstore on wheels and serves as Indianapolis’ first mobile bookstore focused on providing titles by African American and minority authors.  

The Black woman-owned, liberation-centered bookstore shares stories that uplift Black life, Black heritage and Black joy.  

“We are a one-of-kind bookstore on wheels sharing stories that uplift Black life, Black heritage and Black joy. Our mission is to create access and awareness to Black stories as well as excitement and engagement around reading. So, we’re like a bookstore with ice cream truck energy,” said Natalie Pipkin. 

“[We’re] sharing stories that are too often and intentionally left off the shelves: Stories that shape the way we think, see ourselves and see each other. When I go to schools, I don’t see them on the shelves, and they exist. I get my books from the same place any bookstore does,” said Pipkin.  

In a world where African Americans are inundated with negative imagery, stereotypes and false history about Black people around the world, Black Worldschoolers disrupts the dominate negative narrative that seeks to destroy how Black people see each other and themselves. 

With the help of her two sons, Pipkin said they read and curate a selection of books that can serve as mirrors for all children and communities to reflect while providing windows to look into someone else’s world.   

The bookstore launched June 18, 2022, to provide a safe, welcoming space.  

Shop their specially curated bookshop for all ages and visit their website HERE to learn how you can bring their book bus to your city! 

This minority business highlight was composed by Jade Jackson at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at (317) 762-7853 or via email at JadeJ@IndyRecorder.com. 

If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here!” 

Minority Business Highlight: Burgeezy

CHLOE McGOWAN
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Minority Business Highlight: Burgeezy

Indianapolis’ newest vegan restaurant Burgeezy opened its first brick-and-mortar Sept. 9, 2023.

Founded by Kadeesha & Antoine Wiggins, the vegan burger joint is the first of its kind in the city to specialize in a plant-based menu that is dairy, meat and egg free. After starting out as a test kitchen in August 2021 and serving food out of Indy’s Kitchen, Burgeezy was selected to be part of Be Nimble Foundation and Melon Ghost Kitchen’s Food Entrepreneurship Accelerator Program at the Amp at 16 Tech. 

The menu features classic comfort food items, such as Crispy Chick’n Sandwich, Fishhh Fillet, Double BBQ Bacon, Philly cheesesteak Burgeezy and more.

Now operating as a counter-service restaurant on the Canal Walk with dine-in and take-out, Burgeezy is located at 335 W. 9th St. Suite D. For more information about the restaurant or to view the menu, visit burgeezy.com.  To get in contact with the restaurant, call (317) 782-5154.

This minority business highlight was composed by CHLOE McGOWAN at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at 317-762-7848 or via email at chloegm@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here!

Real talk drives real change: Mike Muse

Braxton Babb
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Real talk drives real change: Mike Muse

Mike Muse is bringing inciteful and necessary conversations to HBCUs. Muse, a pop culture and political commentator, aims to promote conversation amongst HBCU students and faculty that advances beyond just traditional talking points.

“The thesis of my work is sitting at the intersection of muse, which is the intersection of pop culture and politics. I like to pull back the social constructs of sports, music, film, fashion and technology,” said Muse. Muse is currently on a four-city tour, which stops at Morgan State University, Virginia State University, Paul Quinn College and North Carolina Central University, where he is speaking on four topics: Black futures, Safe Spaces for Black Men, Black Women Entrepreneurship and Black Health.

These topics were formed by thinking about the needs that impact the Black community and with the hope of determining new ways that they can be addressed.

“We keep having these same, similar conversations, but we’re not moving the needled,” said Muse.  “But my goal is to expand the conversation and look at it from a very nuanced angle … I’m hoping that when individuals leave our summit, they will feel inspired and have a nuanced perspective looking at the issues so we can create a more holistic approach for solutions.”

On Sept. 22, Muse will make his second stop on the tour at Virginia State University, where his talk focuses on the theme Safe Spaces for Black Men.

“Safe spaces to me for Black men represent architecture, design, education; it represents so many different things that I don’t think about it as a singular point,” said Muse. “Because we look at safe space as a very singular point, we missed out on so many opportunities to create programming, ideology, strategies and policies that impact Black men as a whole.”

With two more stops on his tour, you can follow Muse’s journey @IAmMikeMuse on Instagram.

This minority business highlight was composed by Multimedia Staff Reporter Braxton Babb at the Indianapolis Recorder, who can be reached at (317)762-7854 or via email at BraxtonB@IndyRecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indianapolis Minority Business Magazine, click here!

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