BBA Business Booster
Empowering the Hospitality, Tourism & Food Industry in a Post-Covid World
BBA
Upcoming Food Service Training:
Monday, September 9th from 10 AM – 2 PM
Monday, November 11th from 10 AM – 2 PM
The hospitality, tourism, and food industry as a whole were significantly impacted in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, facing unprecedented challenges and setbacks that still exist today. Recognizing the need for targeted support, the Black Business Association of Memphis (BBA) has launched the BBA Booster program. Developed to address the specific struggles faced by hospitality and tourism entrepreneurs, providing support and opportunities for growth. Learn more about BBA Booster and fill out a program application to get started today!
Text “BBABOST”
to (901) 441-8411 to stay up to date with updates, events, and benefits!
Industries We Support
BBA Business Booster
Our BBA Business Booster program is aimed at empowering disadvantaged hospitality, tourism, and food industry entrepreneurs in Memphis in this post-COVID world. Our goal is to help equip these entrepreneurs with the necessary resources and skills. In order to do that, our program consists of four main components: business acumen training, industry-specific training, grants, and mentorship.
Business Acumen Training
Participants will engage in workshops and seminars covering essential business skills, including financial management, marketing strategies, and operational efficiency. These sessions will provide participants with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions and drive business growth.
Eligibility Requirements:
Business owners are eligible for only one grant. Business owners cannot apply for grants for multiple businesses.
Business must be in the food service/hospitality/ tourism industry
Business must be located within the Memphis city limits. Unfortunately, businesses located in surrounding areas like unincorporated Shelby County, Collierville, Barlett and Germantown are ineligible
Business must have been operational before March 3, 2020, and still be in operation at the time of application.
Business cannot have more than 500 employees.
Must be a direct food, beverage, lodging, travel, transportation, tourism, meetings and events provider. Indirect services to these industries,including but not limited to media, production, and cleaning services are not eligible for the grant.
Our Process:
1.
Complete the BBA Consolidated Program Application. Be prepared to provide the following documentation:
- Shelby County Business License
- IRS determination letter or social security card
- Drivers License, State Identification or Passport
- Internal Revenue W-9 Form
- State Papers of Incorporation
- Most Recent Balance Sheet and Profit and Loss Statement
2.
Once the application is completed, you will obtain a status update within 7 business days.
3.
If accepted into the program, you will complete an assessment and schedule a 30 minute discovery.
4.
Based on the assessment results and call, you will be referred to a partner organization to register for an upcoming training and/or schedule a consultant. Food and beverage businesses will also be placed in a cohort to receive specialized training, group sessions, and one-on-one coaching from a seasoned industry professional.
5.
You will receive a 30 and 60-day follow-up and have the opportunity to attend optional peer-to-peer gatherings to ensure that you are receiving the services and peer support needed to sustain and scale your business.
6.
After meeting the above criteria, a $5,000 investment will be awarded to your business.
Text “BBABOST”
to (901) 441-8411 to stay up to date with updates, events, and benefits!
BBA Booster
Our BBA Booster program is aimed at empowering disadvantaged restaurant and food industry entrepreneurs in Memphis in this post-COVID world. Our goal is to help equip these entrepreneurs with the necessary resources and skills. In order to do that, our program consists of four main components: business acumen training, industry-specific training, grants, and mentorship.
Grants
We understand the financial strain that many businesses have faced during these unprecedented times, which is why we want to connect participants with available grants to support their business recovery and growth. These grants will provide much-needed financial assistance to help entrepreneurs overcome challenges and invest in their businesses.
Mentorship
Mentors will be assigned to provide guidance, share industry expertise, and offer valuable insights to help participants navigate their entrepreneurial journey. Our mentors are experienced professionals who can provide support, advice, networking opportunities, and more!
Black Restaurant Council
Memphis Black Restaurant Council seeks to foster the growth, success, and unity of Black-owned restaurants in our community. We strive to create a supportive network that empowers restaurateurs, chefs, and managers by promoting economic development and collective organizing within the local culinary landscape of Memphis. Through collaborative efforts, advocacy, and educational initiatives, we aim to elevate the visibility and recognition of Black-owned restaurants, celebrating their unique contributions to our vibrant food scene. Our commitment extends beyond the plate, as we work towards creating an inclusive and equitable environment that fosters innovation, creativity, and prosperity for the Memphis Black culinary community.
Our Partners
Text “BBABOST”
to (901) 441-8411 to stay up to date with updates, events, and benefits!
Fill Out a BBA Booster Program Application
The BBA Booster program stands ready to propel hospitality, tourism, and food entrepreneurs toward renewed success in a post-COVID landscape. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Memphis community and drive economic growth for all. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to elevate your business and make a lasting impact on your future. Apply for the BBA Booster program today and join a community of entrepreneurs working towards success.
