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Minority Business Highlight: King Ribs Bar-B-Q

MALIK SIMON
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Minority Business Highlight: King Ribs Bar-B-Q

King Ribs Bar-B-Q offers big tastes and homestyle barbeque to Indianapolis. This barbeque hotspot has earned its place as one of the most frequently visited barbeque restaurants in town. Depending on the day you go, the lines are literally wrapped around the building and filled with Hoosiers seeking to get a plate of this establishment’s featured dish: Ribs.

Led by owners Sherry and David Williams, King Ribs Bar-B-Q offers numerous dishes to please those looking to experience homestyle barbeque and bold flavors. The Williams duo operates two locations — the flagship location on 16th St. and a second on Keystone Ave. To accommodate the volume of customers, King Ribs Bar-B-Q also has a drive thru.

King Ribs Bar-B-Q plate with sides (Photo/King Ribs Bar-B-Q)

The curated menu features an assortment of barbeque classics such as ribs, rib tips, pulled pork sandwiches and chicken. Featured sides include coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans and mac ‘n cheese, and homemade pies for customers with a sweet tooth.

To learn more or access the menu, visit https://www.kingribsbbq.com/ or visit one of their two locations: 3145 W 16th St and 4130 N Keystone Ave.

Staff Writer Malik Simon created this highlight. Contact him at 317-762-7847 or via email at maliks@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here Indiana Minority Business Directory – Indiana’s Best Source for the Goods and Services You Need.

Minority Business Highlight: Morales Group Staffing

Noral Parham
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Minority Business Highlight: Morales Group Staffing

From a modest investment in 2003 to a leading regional staffing force, the Morales Group carves a distinct niche by connecting bilingual talent with critical industries. Founded by Tom and Seth Morales, the company has evolved into a multifaceted organization dedicated to empowering the Hispanic workforce and supporting the Midwest’s economic ecosystem. 

Rooted in community 

Morales Group launched the company with a clear vision: to create meaningful opportunities for the growing Hispanic community in Indiana. What began as a staffing firm has evolved into a family of services under the Morales Group umbrella, including Morales Group Staffing, Morales Processing and the Morales Foundation. This structure allows the company to address both immediate employment needs and long-term community development. 

The company specializes in supplying skilled bilingual talent, particularly within the manufacturing, logistics and food processing sectors. By focusing on these essential industries, Morales Group fills a critical gap for employers while providing stable career pathways for job seekers. The company’s deep understanding of this unique talent pool is a cornerstone of its success and reputation. 

An impactful model 

Beyond traditional staffing, the Morales Group operates with an integrated model designed for sustainable impact. Its processing division helps clients streamline operations, while the Morales Foundation focuses on removing barriers to success for workers and their families through educational programs and community initiatives. 

This holistic approach demonstrates a commitment to the entire employee lifecycle, from placement to personal advancement. The company’s growth, consistently recognized by regional business publications, underscores the market demand for culturally competent staffing solutions and the vital role minority-owned businesses play in strengthening local economies. 

Contact Multi-Media Reporter Noral Parham at 317-762-7846 or at noralp@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here.  

Minority Business Highlight: Brown Sugar Cakery

CHLOE McGOWAN
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Minority Business Highlight: Brown Sugar Cakery

Created by Chef Jazimen Morgan, Brown Sugar Cakery specializes in custom, made-to-order desserts, catering and classes in Indianapolis and surrounding areas.

Morgan — a baker, cake lover and “magic behind the mixer” — initially started baking for her family during Thanksgiving. She graduated from culinary school in 2012 and launched her dessert food truck in 2016. Formerly known as The Sweet Potato, LLC, Brown Sugar Cakery aims to be Indy’s go-to bakery for those planning a party or simply craving something sweet, according to the website.

“At Brown Sugar Cakery, we’re on a sweet mission to sprinkle joy in every bite — from custom cakes and crave-worthy desserts to unforgettable classes, catering and food truck fun,” the website states. “We’re not just baking; we’re creating experiences that taste like celebration!”

READ MORE: Minority Business Highlight: Beyond Barcodes Bookstore

Brown Sugar Cakery features a variety of made-to-order desserts, including cakes and cupcakes, brownies and blondies, cheesecakes, poundcakes, pie, cake pops, trifles and puddings. Vegan and gluten-free options are also available.

Morgan loves teaching the art of cake decorating and offers a variety of cake decorating parties and classes for kids and adults, “because playing with buttercream is way more fun when you share it,” according to the website.

The Brown Sugar Cakery dessert truck can be booked for parties or events for up to three hours. Dessert truck offerings include cupcakes, jumbo brownies, cinnamon rolls, cheesecake, ice cream and loaded sundaes.

Brown Sugar Cakery is based in Indianapolis. For more information, to place an order or to book the dessert truck, visit brownsugarcakery.net. To get in contact, email thesweetpotatollc@gmail.com or call 317-644-3018.

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

Minority Business Highlight: Lete’s Injera & Café 

Hanna Rauworth
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Minority Business Highlight: Lete’s Injera & Café 

Lete’s Injera & Cafe offers Indianapolis diners an authentic introduction to Ethiopian and Eritrean cuisine, rooted in tradition and served in a welcoming neighborhood setting.  

Located on the city’s west side, the cafe has become a destination for those seeking bold flavors, communal dining and a cultural food experience that goes beyond the typical restaurant’s meal. 

At the center of the menu is injera, the spongy, fermented flatbread that anchors Ethiopian and Eritrean cooking. Made from teff flour, injera serves as both plate and utensil, pairing with richly seasoned stews, vegetables and meats. Lete’s menu features a range of classic dishes, including lentil and chickpea preparations, slow-simmered meats and combination platters that allow guests to sample multiple flavors at once. Vegetarian and vegan options are also a strong part of the offerings, reflecting the plant-forward traditions of the cuisine.

 

(Photo/Lete’s Injera & Cafe)

The cafe emphasizes food meant to be shared, encouraging diners to eat together and experience meals communally. This approach mirrors cultural practices from East Africa and helps create an atmosphere that feels intimate and inviting, whether guests are longtime fans of Ethiopian food or trying it for the first time. 

In addition to its meals, Lete’s Injera & Cafe highlights Ethiopian coffee culture, an important part of social life in the region. Coffee is prepared with care and offered as a complement to the food, giving customers a fuller sense of the traditions behind the cuisine. The cafe setting allows for both sit-down meals and more casual visits, making it accessible for a variety of occasions. 

To learn more, visit leteinjeracafe.square.site. 

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. 

Minority Business Highlight: BCForward

MALIK SIMON
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Minority Business Highlight: BCForward

BCForward is a company that provides outsourcing, staffing services and system solutions to its clients to help their business grow. Organizations seek out BCForward to provide them with solutions to help achieve success in any field.

BCForward also provides technology consultation such as IT solutions, cybersecurity and cloud management. With ever-advancing technology, organizations depend on this kind of service to adapt and address modern challenges.

Justin Christian, CEO and founder of BCForward, founded the company in 1998 after graduating from DePauw University with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. Christian now leads the overall development of their corporate strategy and ensures that the company nourishes executive level relationships with corporate partners and customers.

Justin Christian, BCForward CEO and Founder (Photo/BCForward website)

“We enable our public sector clients to modernize their internal processes and technology while scaling their workforce to mitigate risk and develop new capabilities,” according to the BCForward website.

When businesses must adapt to the needs of the client, BCForward enables companies to take that next step with their resources and knowledge of market needs.

For more information about BCForward, visit: bcforward.com.

Staff Writer Malik Simon created this highlight. Contact him at 317-762-7847 or via email at maliks@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here Indiana Minority Business Directory – Indiana’s Best Source for the Goods and Services You Need.

Minority Business Highlight: Beyond Barcodes Bookstore

CHLOE McGOWAN
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Minority Business Highlight: Beyond Barcodes Bookstore

Created by DeAndra Beard-Ingram, Beyond Barcodes Bookstore is a Black- and woman-owned bookstore, cafe and language learning center all under one roof. The business, which originally opened in Indianapolis but has since relocated to Kokomo, Indiana, is dedicated to building a space to “create common language, common ground and close-knit community,” according to the website.

Beyond Barcodes Bookstore is more than just a space for readers; it’s a venue for community connections and thoughtful conversations. The store offers a variety of adult and children’s selections, including middle-grade to young adult books, coloring books, cookbooks, travel and resource books. Guests are also welcome to enjoy a selection of stickers, gift cards or personalized reading lists and enjoy coffee, tea or Beard Crumb Cookies by Bind Cafe.

READ MORE: Minority Business Highlight: Salon Honey

The bookstore honors the legacy of Beard-Ingram’s late husband, Joe Louis Ingram, Jr, who was also the author of “Congratulations! 365 Declarations for Everyday Life.”

The store is also host to several community programs, including the Reading Beyond Racism book club, the Full Moon Book Club and the WHS Black Student Association book drive, where books can be donated to the local school with a purchase. 

Beyond Barcodes is also gearing up to launch a new writing club for Black boys aged 10-21 called Black Scribble: Where Black Boys Write. Writer and filmmaker Darnell Lamont Walker will facilitate the club, and registration is open on the website.

Beyond Barcodes Bookstore is located at the Beyond Borders Language Center, 1507 N. Delphos St., Kokomo, Indiana.

The brick-and-mortar location is currently open only on Mondays, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5:30-8 p.m. However, the store also operates as an online storefront. For more information or to browse the selection, visit beyondbarcodesbookstore.square.site. To get in contact, call 765-201-0383 or email beyondborderslanguage@gmail.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.

Minority Business Highlight: Lé Esthetics 

Hanna Rauworth
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Minority Business Highlight: Lé Esthetics 

Lé Esthetics is expanding its footprint in Bloomington’s beauty and wellness scene, offering a wide range of aesthetic and spa services at its downtown location.  

The boutique studio, located at 619 North Morton Street, provides treatments including lash extensions, keratin lash lifts, brow services, facials, waxing, permanent makeup and laser hair removal. 

Solange Marcum, owner of Le Esthetics in Bloomington. (Photo/Le Esthetics website)

The business is led by licensed esthetician Solange Marcum, who founded Lé Esthetics after more than a decade of experience in the beauty industry. Marcum’s background, which includes work as a professional model and esthetician, shaped the studio’s focus on customized treatments and detailed client care. According to the business, Lé Esthetics was designed to create a setting that blends luxury with accessibility, aiming to serve everyday beauty needs as well as special events. 

Clients can book services such as full-body waxing, microneedling through Procell microchanneling, spray tanning and teeth whitening. The studio also offers makeup services for weddings and formal events, along with advanced skincare options intended to target concerns like texture, hydration and anti-aging. Lé Esthetics states that its goal is to provide a comprehensive menu that allows clients to access multiple services in one location. 

The business operates by appointment and allows customers to book directly online through its website. Lé Esthetics promotes a welcoming environment for new and returning clients and emphasizes ongoing professional training for its staff. 

More information about services, pricing and booking is available at leestheticsindiana.com. 

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. 

Minority Business Highlight: Salon Honey

CHLOE McGOWAN
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Minority Business Highlight: Salon Honey

For the last seven years, Salon Honey has been committed to natural, sustainable hair health of Hoosiers.

Owned by Celaithia Verworn, Salon Honey is home to “Indy’s curl experts,” according to the website. Opened in 2018, Salon Honey is a Green Circle-certified and teaching salon equipped with a diverse team of stylists affectionately dubbed “the Honey bees.”

Verworn, a fourth-generation hairstylist and third-generation salon owner, has 15 years of experience in the industry — seven of which were leading Salon Honey.

 “Located in the heart of Fountain Square, Salon Honey is a collective space for guests and stylists to connect,” the website states. “The Honey bees strive to create a warm and inviting environment while providing natural, sustainable hair health through luxury service.”

READ MORE: Minority Business Highlight: Enchanted Hearts Home Health

Salon Honey offers a variety of styles and services, including custom haircuts, curly cuts and barber cuts; color services including vivid application and color correction; bridal/party member styling and special occasion updos; and specialized styling including blowouts, extensions and silk presses. All custom haircut services include a wash and style.

The salon also offers a variety of hair ritual services, such as Malibu C, Awaken Scalp Facial, K18 Ritual and metal detox. 

Salon Honey is located in the Shelby Services building at 1035 Shelby St. Parking is free in the building’s lot or on the street. 

For more information or to book a consultation or service, visit salonhoneyindy.com. To get in contact, call 317-767-5708 or email salonhoneyindy@gmail.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.

Minority Business Highlight: Hollywood Beauty Palace 

Hanna Rauworth
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Minority Business Highlight: Hollywood Beauty Palace 

Hollywood Beauty Palace, located at 5525 Georgetown Road, Suite L in Indianapolis, is drawing attention as a top-rated full-service hair salon serving clients of all hair types and backgrounds. 

At the helm of the salon is a master stylist and licensed instructor known simply as “Toya,” who brings over 30 years of experience to her craft — including time spent teaching other stylists. Hollywood Beauty Palace emphasizes “health of hair” as its guiding priority, offering services ranging from color, cuts, extensions, and natural-hair care to styling needs that meet diverse preferences.  

The salon hours run Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with Friday extending to 7:00 p.m., and Saturday hours from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; the salon remains closed on Sundays.  

What stands out most in online reviews is the level of care and professionalism clients report. With more than 300 online reviews, the business maintains a near-perfect 5.0 rating — reviewers frequently highlight both the quality of results and the welcoming, clean, comfortable atmosphere. Clients with natural or textured hair note that they appreciate the stylist’s knowledge of hair health and maintenance, and many remark that they leave feeling confident and satisfied after treatments ranging from relaxing hair-care services to dramatic transformations like cuts or extensions.  

(Photo/Hollywood Beauty Palace)

In the words of one satisfied client: “I went from long hair to a pixie cut … Toya … did an amazing job. The cut was exactly what I wanted.” Another parent noted that after a relaxer and cut for her daughter’s naturally thick, coarse hair, “we are now convinced that Toya is a magician!”  

Whether you’re seeking a routine haircut and styling or specialized treatment tailored to natural hair needs, Hollywood Beauty Palace aims to provide a reliable, professional, and friendly option in Indianapolis’s salon landscape. For appointments or more information on services, visitors can reach the salon via their official website  at hollywoodbeautypalace.com or by phone at (317) 721-2148.  

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. 

Minority Business Highlight: Yaso Jamaican Grill

MALIK SIMON
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0
Minority Business Highlight: Yaso Jamaican Grill

Yaso Jamaican Grill is a Jamaican cuisine restaurant that serves island staples for those looking for dive into exquisite flavors. The restaurant is owned and operated by Executive Chef Jermaine Dennis and his wife Ja’Net.

This food hotspot owes its delicious cuisine to Chef Jermaine who seeks to bring authentic island flavors to the Indianapolis community. Dishes such as jerk chicken, oxtails, and patties are the restaurant’s fan favorites. With the support of the local community, Yaso has managed to do exactly that.

Jamaican Patties (Photo/Yaso Jamaican Grill)

Chef Jermaine was born and raised in the parish of Westmoreland, Jamaica.  He spent the early years of his career cooking for hotels in Jamaica. With his experience in cooking and serving the masses, Chef Jermaine brought his expertise right here to Indianapolis.

Ja’Net Dennis, the other half of this dynamic duo, is a Ball State University graduate who is well versed in successfully running a business given her experience in owning several small businesses.

This premiere establishment has served the community from the heart of Indianapolis in Fountain Square. The restaurant is located 1501 Prospect St. To learn more, visit Yaso Grill – Fountain Square, Indianapolis, IN.

Staff Writer Malik Simon created this highlight. Contact him at 317-762-7847 or via email at maliks@indyrecorder.com. If you would like your business highlighted in the Indiana Minority Business Magazine, click here Indiana Minority Business Directory – Indiana’s Best Source for the Goods and Services You Need.

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