The Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated the graduation of the 2024 Lowcountry Minority Business Accelerator (MBA) cohort on December 11. This milestone marked the culmination of a transformative year-long program dedicated to empowering minority business owners.
“We’re incredibly proud of our Lowcountry MBA cohort graduates,” said Celeste Granger, Senior Vice President of Programs and Initiatives at the Chamber. “These talented entrepreneurs have demonstrated unwavering dedication and perseverance, investing a year of hard work to elevate their businesses and strengthen the entire minority business ecosystem in the Charleston region.”
The graduation ceremony featured inspiring remarks from industry leaders, including MBA Instructor Wendell Jones, Nick Correa of Bank of America, Bernard Johnson of Interise, Monique Smalls of Walker and Sons Enterprises and 2024 cohort member and Dr. Kimberly Butler Willis of GOODSTOCK Consulting, a member of the inaugural MBA cohort in 2022. The event also honored dedicated mentors, volunteer leaders and supporters who played a crucial role in the cohort’s journey.
Recognizing the Businesses Poised to Take the Next Steps
This year’s cohort united 15 business owners from various industries, fostering a collaborative learning environment:
- Reginald Adkins, Data Driven Engineering
- Amber Daniels, The Law Office of Amber Daniels, LLC
- Janon German, Georgetown Road Realty, LLC
- JaNay House, House Huntress, LLC
- Danielle Larkins, Elodie, LLC
- David Nesbit, G&L Charters and Tours
- Sharon Richardson, Resilient Lands Matter Inc.
- Thetyka Robinson, The Asiko Group
- LaCrystal Robinson, Cre8torZone
- Darryl Robinson, Elite Palmetto Real Estate
- Sheron Singleton, Bare Skin Beauty
- Monique Smalls, Walker and Sons Enterprises, LLC
- Cory Wallace, The Stag Pad Barber Shop
- Zelonia Williams, Patches Custom Embroidery Works
- Tamara York, York Superior Mortgage Group
About the Minority Business Accelerator Program
Launched in 2022 with the support of Bank of America, the Lowcountry MBA program empowers minority business owners to scale their companies, drive growth and become industry leaders. By leveraging the Interise StreetWise MBA® curriculum, the program provides participants with the tools, insights and connections needed to achieve peak performance.
A core component of the program is the development of a personalized three-year Strategic Growth Action Plan (SGAP). Through expert guidance, peer learning and hands-on application, participants refine business practices, strengthen financial positions and cultivate a culture of excellence.
Thank You to Our Participants and Supporters
The success of the 2024 MBA cohort is a testament to the collective efforts of cohort members, instructors, mentors, volunteer leaders and sponsors. Their dedication and support have created a more equitable business environment for minority-owned businesses to thrive.
Bank of America has been a steadfast supporter of the MBA program, providing grant funding to initiate the program in Charleston, Columbia and Greenville.
“Bank of America is committed to fostering a diverse and talented workforce pipeline in South Carolina,” said Mark Munn, President of Bank of America Charleston. “The Minority Business Accelerator program empowers minority-owned businesses and strengthens our local economy. Congratulations to the 2024 cohort on their graduation and future endeavors.”
Additional organizations that contributed to the program’s success include Morris Financial Concepts, South Carolina Federal Credit Union, BuenaVista Information Systems, Castle Coaching & Consulting, GOODSTOCK Consulting, Iacofano’s Catering & Events, Rosemary & Rye and It’s a Win-Win Catering.
“We’re also grateful to our dedicated mentors and supporters who’ve generously shared their talents, expertise and guidance, helping these business owners overcome challenges and achieve their goals. Together, we’re fostering a more equitable business environment that empowers minority-owned businesses to thrive. By supporting these entrepreneurs, we’re not only strengthening our local economy but also creating a more prosperous future for all,” said Granger.
As these entrepreneurs embark on the next chapter of their business journeys, they join a network of peers and mentors dedicated to ongoing growth and success. Their achievements inspire us all to strive for a more prosperous future.
Congratulations to the 2024 Minority Business Accelerator cohort.
