In 2020, we started the Black Woman Relief Fund to help provide relief to Black Women Business Owners affected by COVID-19, the ups and downs caused by the temporary support during the social justice uprising and the defunding of DEI programs. And in June we put out a call to apply for a $1,000 relief stipend or to nominate a Black woman entrepreneur who deserves financial support.
We received strong entries and are excited to share the three outstanding Black Women Business Owners who were awarded stipends to support their ventures. The recipients — Cakewalk Chicago, My Beautiful Fluff and Blaque Wellness — are all examples of Black Women-Owned Businesses that are making a significant impact in their communities. Their resilience, creativity and dedication to excellence have earned them these much-needed financial awards, which will help them continue their important work.
Cakewalk Chicago
Founded by Chef Lori Parrett, Cakewalk Chicago is a bakery supply shop that offers everything from cake decorating tools to baking classes for aspiring pastry chefs. Chef Lori’s dedication to creating a space where bakers of all levels can learn, grow and create has made Cakewalk Chicago a staple in the community.
The Black Woman Relief Fund stipend will allow Chef Lori to prioritize well-being by strategically building well-being breaks into Cakewalk Chicago's growth plan for the benefit of both her family and her business.
“I'm rewriting the narrative where relentless hustle defines success and granting myself permission to prioritize my well-being because a healthy and empowered leader can create a more impactful business and a stronger community for all of us." ~ Chef Lori
My Beautiful Fluff
Body positivity and self-love are at the heart of My Beautiful Fluff, a lifestyle brand created by Brittany Washington. My Beautiful Fluff offers a range of products, from clothing to accessories, all designed to celebrate and empower plus-size women.
With the help of the Black Woman Relief Fund, My Beautiful Fluff will be able to enhance their online presence by upgrading her website to into a modern, efficient and professional interface that prioritizes user experience and advances the business's mission of empowering women to embrace their beauty.
"The pandemic has created significant challenges for us, but with the right support, I believe we can overcome these obstacles, stabilize our operations, and continue to grow." ~ Brittany Washington
Blaque Wellness
Founded by Selika Downey, Blaque Wellness provides hand-crafted, plant-based and cruelty-free wellness products for those looking for all natural products to add to their regimen. Offering everything from herbal-infused oils to herbal teas, Blaque Wellness encourages women to take control of their health and well-being.
The Relief Fund stipend will allow Selika to purchase packaging in bulk, so she can reduce her costs and invest in other areas of her business. Blaque Wellness is a shining example of how Black Women are taking charge of their health and helping others do the same.
Uplifting Black Women in business
All of these Black Women are successful business owners, so they inspire other Black Women who are looking to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Which is why we’re proud to support their work, elevate their stories and be a part of their journey.
If you would like to learn more about the Black Woman Relief Fund, visit our relief fund page. The Black Woman Relief Fund is just one of many ways we’re helping to bridge the gap in access to resources that Black Women face. You can read more about our other programs, including the Black Woman Business Accelerator Program here.