Black entrepreneurs take center stage in Robbinsdale
Sheletta Brundidge, a well-known comedian, radio host, and activist, brought a new spark to Black Business Month in Minnesota. She partnered with the Hy-Vee store in Robbinsdale to spotlight local Black-owned businesses on August 9. The event allowed shoppers to meet business owners face-to-face, sample their products, and hear their stories.
Brundidge said the celebration was about more than sales. It was about visibility, connection, and giving these entrepreneurs the space to focus on creating. “We have great products… but we gotta be there, so we can’t keep creating product,” she explained. By having their goods featured in the store, business owners could reach new customers while still working on their craft.
Hy-Vee opens its doors for local Black-owned products
The Robbinsdale Hy-Vee store manager, Joe Lowe, stressed the power of personal connection. “It puts a name to it,” Lowe said. He noted that when shoppers recall meeting a business owner in person, it strengthens their desire to buy from them again.
This direct link between product and personality creates a lasting impression. Even weeks later, customers may see a brand on the shelves and remember the people behind it. That emotional connection can be the deciding factor in making a purchase.
Three standout Minnesota Black businesses featured
Three local companies had the spotlight during the celebration. Soul Grain, created by pastry chef Sylvia Williams and nutritionist Liza Maya, showcased their artisan granola. Nature’s Syrup Hair and Skin Care, launched by De’Vonna Pittman, shared plant-based solutions for curly hair. Nadia’s Jamaican Kitchen from Brooklyn Park brought the flavors of the Caribbean with jerk chicken, curry soup, and more.
Each business not only offered samples but also shared the inspiration behind their products. This gave customers insight into their passion and the hard work behind each item. For many attendees, it was their first time tasting or using these local creations.
Building momentum for the future
Brundidge believes this is just the beginning. Her vision is for these products to remain on Hy-Vee shelves long after the event. “If we can get these products on the shelves… then we can go back and create more and meet with people to do outreach,” she said.
By giving these businesses a place in mainstream retail, she hopes to break the cycle where small entrepreneurs are forced to sell every product themselves. This approach frees up their time to innovate and grow.
The celebration proved that when community leaders and local businesses unite, the results are powerful. Shoppers walked away with new favorites, and entrepreneurs gained customers who now know their names, faces, and stories.
