Bluffton Launches Initiative to Empower Black-Owned Businesses Through Education and Community Engagement

Bluffton Welcomes a New Era of Empowerment for Black-Owned Businesses

In the charming town of Bluffton, South Carolina, a wave of positive change is sweeping through the community, all thanks to the innovative efforts spearheaded by local leaders eager to uplift and support Black entrepreneurs. At the forefront of this initiative is councilwoman Bridgette Frazier, who is working tirelessly alongside entrepreneur Billy Watterson to create pathways for success through the establishment of their nonprofit, BlacQuity.

The Story Behind BlacQuity

Frazier, a native of Bluffton, recalls the pivotal moment when she first met Watterson. “We’ve always had the skills,” she explained, “but when it comes to leveraging the playing field, we cannot do that on our own.” This conversation marked the beginning of a partnership focused on making a real difference in the local economy, particularly in the wake of the social upheaval following the tragic death of George Floyd Jr. in May 2020. Many individuals recognized the need to support Black-owned businesses but found themselves unsure of how to go about it.

To address this gap, the Bluffton MLK Observance Committee took the initiative to create a directory of Black-owned businesses. Frazier, who was also a committee member and a dedicated English teacher at Beaufort County, organized pop-up markets to showcase these enterprises. It was during one of these events that she met Watterson, the mind behind several successful businesses. Together, they recognized the essential needs of the Black community in Bluffton.

Empowering through Education

One of Frazier’s key insights was the lack of capital and fundamental business knowledge among many potential entrepreneurs. She expressed a need for educational resources that could teach critical skills such as creating a profit and loss statement, becoming vendors for local and state contracts, and understanding the importance of having proper insurance. This led them to develop Black Equity University, a core program offering a 12-week course designed to equip aspiring business owners with the essential knowledge and skills required to thrive.

Graduates of the program span a variety of sectors including food services, retail, health and wellness, and creative industries like photography. Frazier sums it up well: “We are the roots. We’ve been at the core of every restaurant in this area. We’ve been the midwives to any and all families.”

A Festival of Culture and Community

In 2023, BlacQuity hosted its inaugural Roots & Rivers Festival to celebrate the deep cultural ties of the African diaspora. The festival was a huge hit, and preparations are underway for the second annual event, scheduled for September 14, 2024. This year, the festivities will take place at Oyster Factory Park and will feature food trucks, live music, and a beer garden, all with a focus on showcasing local talent and entrepreneurial spirit.

The upcoming festival not only serves as a fun gathering but also reinforces BlacQuity’s mission of promoting local businesses. Every participant is a graduate of Black Equity University, further emphasizing the organization’s commitment to upward mobility within the community.

Looking Forward: Future Plans and Expansion

As BlacQuity continues to grow, Frazier and Watterson are excited about their next big project: Ma Daisy’s Porch, a new gathering place that will celebrate Gullah culture with a restaurant, bakery, and bar along May River Road. Alongside this, BlacQuity is planning a pitch night reminiscent of the popular television show Shark Tank, where future entrepreneurs can compete for funding and resources to launch or grow their businesses.

Furthermore, building partnerships is a major focus for Frazier, who expresses the importance of expanding networks to empower more entrepreneurs. Efforts are being made to connect with local organizations and government bodies to ensure equitable opportunities for all business owners in the region.

A Community United for Change

Bluffton’s journey toward a more equitable business landscape showcases the incredible potential that lies in community support and collaboration. With strong leadership, educational initiatives, and a focus on cultural heritage, the future looks promising for Black-owned businesses in Bluffton and beyond. As Frazier aptly states, “We want this to grow beyond the Lowcountry, working with local governments and municipalities to create equity for more entrepreneurs.”