Here Are All The Black-Owned Businesses Featured In JAY-Z And Pharrell's Seriously Empowering 'Entrepreneur' Music Video
The collaboration features longstanding businesses and new ventures.
August 22, 2020 at 5:54 pm
In an era where Black people are being disproportionately hampered by the raging COVID-19 pandemic and constantly working to eradicate police brutality, Pharrell Williams and JAY-Z are using their prowess to uplift the community.
The duo showed off their talents and their giving spirit on Friday when they released "Entrepreneur," a music video highlighting Black businesses around the world. The collaboration features both well-established businesses as well as new ventures, along with creative individuals who are finding unique ways to make a difference in their community.
Here are the businesses which are featured in the music video.
1. TyAnthony Davis Has A Tuition-Free Public Charter School
TyAnthony Davis is the founder of Vox Collegiate Junior High. The tuition-free public charter school for middle-schoolers is based in Los Angeles. According to "Entrepreneur," Davis founded the school after learning that 20 schools in his district performed in the bottom 5% statewide.
Davis has obtained a Juris Doctorate from Harvard Law School, a master's degree in Education from University of Nevada, Las Vegas and a bachelor's degree in African American Studies from Yale University.
"I love Vox because our students remind me every day of how bright our future can be," he said in a statement on Instagram.
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2. Tyler, the Creator's Golf Wang
Tyler, the Creator is not only a multi-talented artist, but the owner of several businesses. One of his ventures is a streetwear line known as Golf Wang.
According to Complex, Tyler was recognized as Best New Artist at the MTV VMAs in 2011. Since then, his music and his brand has continued to expand together. Golf Wang landed its first partnership when Vans reached out for the opportunity. In 2016, the brand was featured at a fashion show in Los Angeles in front of Kanye West and Kendall Jenner.
“The more I travel, the older I get, s**t changes. I know I will be making suits in the future. I’ll make a pair of boots in the future. I’ll be making some old dude stuff in the future,” the artist told Vogue in 2015. “You gotta make what you know. I think that’s what a lot of lines lack. I put my personal life into my music, and I do it in my clothes, too.”
entrepreneur by p and jay pic.twitter.com/BHpJXp8gH1
— Tyler, The Creator (@tylerthecreator) August 21, 2020
3. Honey's Kettle Is Well-Known For Its Fried Chicken, Hand Rolled Buttermilk Biscuits
Honey's Kettle, a restaurant located in Los Angeles, specializes in Kettle cooking. The business is well-known for its fried chicken, hand rolled buttermilk biscuits and kettle cooked fries. The restaurant also offers locally sourced honey, sweet pickles, Ice-Shaker lemonade, secret sauce and shucked corn.
Vincent and Arlene Williams opened the business 20 years ago. Now, the couple's children is helping expand the business.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Honey's Kettle Fried Chicken (@honeyskettle) on
4. Iddris Sandu Partnered With Facebook To Launch The Black Mural Project
Iddris Sandu is the founder of spatialLABS, which describes itself as "an immersive visual studio and agency." According to KultureHub, the tech company partnered with Facebook to launch the Black Mural Project, which uses 3D technology to give students a unique way to learn about history.
SpatialLABS has also worked with Rihanna to create virtual 3D invitations. In 2017, Sandu partnered with Nipsey Hussle to open The Marathon store, which became the first "smart store," according to WIRED.
5. Honey Pot Is Made For Vaginal Care
Bea Dixon said she started the Honey Pot company because she was suffering from bacterial vaginosis.
"One night, an ancestor visited me in a dream and gifted me with a vision to heal myself," Dixon wrote on the company's website. "With her help, I created the Honey Pot Co to solve for what other brands wouldn't, using the power of herbs."
The company describes itself as "the first complete feminine care system that cleanses, protects and balances your vagina."
6. D’ART Shtajio Is The First Black-Owned Anime Studio In Japan
Arthell and Darnell Isom are the creators of D’ART Shtajio, which is the first Black-owned anime studio in Japan.
"The word Shtajio is a play on words in both English and Japanese to reflect our commitment towards building a strong foundation centered on our artists and clients," the brothers said.
The studio allows anime creators to submit their story elements and helps them take the next steps to complete the production.
7. Neighbors Skate Shop Serves Leimert Park In Los Angeles
Neighbors Skate Shop, located in Los Angeles, describes itself "as a bridge between generations."
The skateboard store, which also sells merchandise online, is serving the Leimert Park neighborhood of South Los Angeles.
"It’s our attempt to protect and preserve the legacy of our humble community here in Leimert Park through the love, energy and momentum of skateboarding," the company stated.
8. Alrick Augustine Uplifts Runners In Los Angeles
Alrick Augustine quit his job in 2018 and started Keep It Run Hundred, an organization which brings together runners in Los Angeles.
"In South Central long distance running isn’t a popular thing. Growing up running is looked at as punishment when you play other sports," Augustine told VoyageLA. "So with me falling in love with it and learning more about it, I just wanted to share my knowledge with my community."
The Los Angeles entrepreneur can be seen running through the streets with dozens of like-minded people who are using the sport to improve their lifestyle.
9. Six Sev Is Serving The Youth In Crenshaw
Six Sev is a designer, rapper and activist. The artist, who was raised in the Crenshaw District of Los Angeles, names Nipsey Hussle as his inspiration.
Following in the footsteps of the late rapper, Six Sev said he learned to do more for the youth in the community.
“I wanted to see young people have a platform in Leimert Park, so I talked to the elders, connected the dots, started doing events, go to community meetings, do clean-ups, and hold flea markets," he told The Hundreds. "There’s a whole platform for Black economics and culture in Leimert Park now."
10. Chace Opened Harun Coffee With Money Made From His Musical Career
Harun Coffee is a coffee shop and streetwear store in Leimert Park, Los Angeles. Chace Infinite opened the shop with the money he made as a musician, according to the music video.
Chace has been rapping since the early 90’s when he partnered with DJ Khalid as a member of D Skillz “Solor Panel," according to Road To The Riches.
11. Denise Woodard Founded Partake To Help People Struggling With Food Allergies
Partake specializes in making allergy-friendly, healthy snacks. Denise Woodard founded the nationwide store after seeing her own daughter struggle with food allergies.
"Making allergy-friendly, healthy snacks (from scratch) for my daughter was hard work, but I refused to give up," Woodard said on her website. "Our products are deliciously made for just about everyone – from those with restrictions to those who simply want to eat more healthfully."
12. My Two Cents Has Received Endorsements From Solange And Ava DuVernay
Alisa Reynolds is the creator of My Two Cents, a vegan soul food in Los Angeles. According to the Daily Trojan, the restaurant has received endorsements from Solange and Ava DuVernay. The menu includes cornbread as well as Creole shrimp and corn grits.
“Her main recipe is love, hands down,” Eric Jamal, a server at the restaurant, told The Daily Trojan. “This is her art and she cares about the presentation … the flavor.”
13. PUR Home Provides Household Cleaning Products
Angela Richardson is the founder of PUR Home, a company which provides household cleaning products. Richardson launched the company five years ago after making the first ever natural bar of soap, according to Inside Outer Beauty.
The products are made from non-toxic, biodegradable, plant-based ingredients. PUR Home's supplies include a liquid laundry detergent, which is made with 100% recyclable materials, according to Clever. The company also provides several eco-friendly kitchen and bathroom cleaning supplies.
14. Tribe Midwifery is Improving Childbirth Experience For Women
Debbie Allen created Tribe Midwifery to improve the childbirth experience for women.
"Twenty-six years ago I experienced a hospital birth with my first son," Allen said on her company's website. "It was filled with unnecessary interventions and most importantly… it lacked the tenderness and intimacy that I believed is the core of childbirth."
When she had her second and third child, Allen decided to give birth at home. Now, she's providing traditional homebirth services for other women.
"It is an honor and privilege to witness a baby take their first breath, couples become families, and children become siblings," Allen said. "We offer midwifery services in our office or your home. We are committed to supporting you throughout your birth experience and beyond."
15. Miss Bennett Fitness Gives One-On-One Training
Miss Bennett Fitness is helping Los Angeles residents improve their physique and lifestyle, providing training in a private facility.
"You can skip all the restrictions and procedures," Miss Bennett said on her Instagram. "In a safe environment, open space without any crowds. Only one trainer One client. Just YOUR gym!"
View this post on InstagramA post shared by MissFit Bennett (@missfit_bennett) on
16. Black and Mobile Delivers Food To Homes, Schools and Work
Black and Mobile is the first Black-owned food delivery service company in the country partnering with Black-owned businesses. The company delivers food to homes, schools and work. The service is available in Detroit, Atlanta and Philadelphia.
David Cabello dropped out of college and went on to launch the service in 2019 during Black History Month.
"Black and Mobile's main focus is to highlight underrepresented businesses in the urban communities that are often overlooked, and provide them with the technology they need to not only expand their customer base, but to stay competitive in this rapid changing economy," the company stated.
17. Trill Paws Creates Pet Tags And Accessories Inspired By Pop Culture Icons
Rachel Jones, owner of Trill Paws, created the business in Los Angeles in the spirit of her obsession for dogs and love of pop culture. The company creates pet tags and accessories that are inspired by pop culture icons and phrases.
"A couple of years ago I dreamt up a concept for a pet accessories company that would appeal to fun and trendy pet owners who love dogs and design," Jones said on the company's website. "So many pet ID tags on the market are dull and can be a bit boring, so we design tags and accessories that are unique, refreshingly fun and totally on trend."
18. Third Vault Yarns Creates Yarn Designs Inspired By Science Fiction
Third Vault Yarns is a London-based business which sells hand-dyed yarn designs inspired by science fiction, board games and books. The founder, Lola Johnson, created a Kickstarter account to aid in the launch of her business.
"I dye geeky yarn, design knitting patterns and love board gaming," Johnson said on the Kickstarter page. "It was a no-brainer to me to combine these passions together, and so the concept of Board Game Knits – knitwear designs inspired by board gaming – was born."
The company's products include gloves, hats, scarfs and sweaters.
19. Compton Cowboys Ride Horses To Erase Negative Stereotypes About Their City
The Compton Cowboys are a group of 10 friends who ride horses to challenge negative stereotypes about the city of Compton.
“We’ve always wanted to give people a different side of Compton besides gangster rap and basketball,” Leighton BeReal told The New York Times.
BeReal said riding horses through the streets of Compton has protected him from gang violence.
“If we’re walking on the street and a car drives past us that’s from a rival gang, they assume that we’re from a gang around here,” the 28-year-old said. “But if they see us on horses then they know we’re from Richland Farms and leave us alone.”
The group relies on funds from government grants and local community to afford the cost of maintaining horses. Compton Cowboys also sell merchandise on their website.
20. Hugh Augustine Opened A Take Out Service In Los Angeles
While struggling to make substantial income as a rapper, Hugh Augustine opened Hugh's Hot Bowl, a take-out service in Los Angeles which sells vegan meals.
Augustine said south Los Angeles is short on vegan cafes and restaurants.
"There's only a select few healthy options," he told The Los Angeles Times. "So I said 'Why not try something even if it's small, where I can provide the service that I'm looking for?'"
21. Simply Wholesome Features An Appetizing Menu
Simply Wholesome is a Los Angeles restaurant which is popular for its unique menu and vibrant atmosphere. According to Eater, the 33-year-old restaurant has become famous for its chicken dishes, macaroni pie, plantains, potato salad, peas, Jamaican spinach patty and rice.
Owner Percell Keeling said he doesn't like be to singed out as a Black business.
“If this were on the Westside, would you ask me how it would feel to Be a black owner? They don’t ask the Asians and Latinos how it feels to have a biz in the Black community," Keeling told Eatery. "For some reason, we always seem to be singled out as a Black biz. We happen to be a Black-owned biz. But this is simply a health food restaurant."
22. Nail Xperience Was Founded By Two Sisters In Paris
Nail Xperience, a full service nail-care venture, was founded by two sisters in Paris six years ago.
"Our nail Xperts trained by designers Nina and Sarah are waiting for you to take care of your hands, your feet and offer you the latest nail trends," the company stated on its website.
The company also offers an academy which allows beginners to learn the trade.
23. M.I.O- Prints Features African Prints
M.I.O- Prints, a lifestyle and fashion brand, was founded by lifestyle blogger Florence Olufemi-Ojo in 2018. The stylish venture features African prints known as Ankara and Kente. Robes, hair bonnets, fans and aprons are among the selections offered at M.I.O- Prints.
"We are passionate about natural hair care and skincare, with most of our products either being lined or full satin materials," the company stated. "We are a social movement, and we are delighted to have you join our community #mioprints #thisisfamily."
24. Lee’at Gentely Went From Lawyer To Cake Designer in Tel-Aviv
Lee’at Gentely, who used to work as a lawyer in London, is now a beloved cake designer in Tel-Aviv. She said her company, Caked & Baked, happened by accident.
"If you had asked me 10 years ago if I baked cakes, I would have laughed in your face," she said. "Back in 2008, I was working in one of London’s top City Law firms, now I can be found in the kitchen covered in flour and buttercream – oh and in Tel-Aviv at that!"
25. Umoja Production Was Founded By Two Afro-Irish Entrepreneurs
Umoja Production is an Afrocentric fashion brand. China Soribe and Liswa McDonald, two Afro-Irish entrepreneurs, founded the company in 2017. Umoja sells jackets, dresses, shirts, dresses and more.
26. Avila.Diana Diverse Aims To Change Negative Perceptions About Underrepresented Communities
Avila.Diana Diverse offers unique greeting cards and gifts. Avila Chidume founded the business in 2018 with the goal of changing negative perceptions about underrepresented communities.
Chidume said all the greeting cards are designed by herself, depicting "marginalized groups including those with disabilities, identifying as LGBT+, ethnic minorities or problems with mental health."
"My ultimate goal is to spread awareness, create dialogue and encourage all businesses to reassess their diversity ethos," she said. "Additionally, I hope to create positive change through my work and to one day employ a team of artists from these marginalized groups to create artwork which shares their stories on this platform."
27. The Artisan Grower Delivers Fresh Veggies
The Artisan Grower is a farm offering fresh veggies, microgreens, edible flowers and strawberries in Scotland. The founders, Robert and Michelle Sullivan, said customers can have their fresh vegetables and soft fruits delivered to them or they can collect their box from one of the “pick-up-points.”
"This is the strangest of things… our little farm has been featured in @Pharrell Williams (ft. Jay Z) most recent video called 'Entrepreneur,'" the founders said on Instagram. "We don’t have any connections with the said named artists, but God knows everyone, right?"
View this post on InstagramA post shared by the artisan grower (@theartisangrower) on
28. Maison Château Roug Creates Socially-Conscious Fashion Brand
Brothers Youssouf and Mamadou Fofana launched their clothing business, Maison Château Rouge, in 2015. Based in France, the company started with the goal of creating a socially-conscious fashion brand that would contribute to the growth of Africa.
Air Jordan, which partnered with Maison Château Rouge on a project, published an interview with the brothers.
"Château-Rouge is the African neighborhood of Paris. For many years, it didn’t have a positive image in the media, amongst Parisians and in France, as a whole," Youssouf said in the interview. "Maison Château Rouge is driven by a desire to display the evolution of our culture, enabled by a new generation of people who, like us, are re-envisioning it."
In addition to having a shop in Paris, the brand's hand-made African-inspired fashion and lifestyle products are carried by retailers around the world.
29. Robert Hartwell Is Preparing Future Broadway Stars
Broadway star Robert Hartwell earned his degree in Musical Theatre from the University of Michigan and performed in five Broadway musicals. The actors then launched The Broadway Collective, a company which trains aspiring Broadway performers.
"People ask me how we get our students results," Hartwell said on his website. "It’s simple: coach them to be the hardest worker by connecting them with the people they aspire to be."
According to Pharrell's video, Hartwell bought a house which was used as a plantation during the slavery era, purchasing the home for $400,000.
30. Soul Food House Is Thriving In Tokyo
David and LaTonya Whitaker opened Soul Food House in 2015 in Tokyo.
"It was birth out of a desire to bring authentic American Southern and Cajun cuisine to the hearts and stomachs of those that live and visit Japan," the owners stated. "It doesn’t matter who you are or where you are from, when you walk through the doors of Soul Food House, you are family coming home."
The restaurant prides itself on homemade specialties such as chicken and dumplings, shrimp and grits, vegan choices and gluten-free options. Soul Food House also features creative cocktails and music.
31. Issa Rae Is A Business
It's only right that budding entertainment mogul Issa Rae was also featured in the video. Founder of Issa Rae Productions, the 28-year-old is said to be "building her empire" in the same Los Angeles area where she once filmed several low-budget web series like Awkward Black Girl.