(COLUMBIA, MO) ~ Columbia, MO - Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI) has announced the recipients of the 2024 Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) grants, which are funded by the City of Columbia. The MBE Grant program aims to promote inclusivity and support underrepresented businesses in the city.

Each year, REDI awards 10 entrepreneurs with $5,000 each, totaling a grant fund of $50,000. This year's grant recipients were chosen for their exceptional entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to their businesses.

Stacey Button, president of REDI, expressed her admiration for the applicants and their drive to succeed. "The ingenuity and determination of local entrepreneurs is evident," she said. "We are thrilled to recognize these incredible small businesses that make up our community."

The 2024 MBE Grant recipients include Brittany Brandt from Innher Pink CO., Castile Gamal from Gamal Castile's Smartbodies LLC, Valerie Gaskin from Miss Vee's Kitchen, Ranjana Hans from Raw Roots Turmeric LLC, Debra Harris from Harris Cosmetology and Barber Institute DBA Luxx Beauty & Barber Institute, Brandon McClain from McClain's Helping Hands Services LLC, Abbey Mitchell from Abbey's Swahili Delights LLC, Arizbeth Lliana from Viveros Perfect Shine Cleaning, Zellvelena Washington from Belle & Beaux Hair Studio LLC, and Stephany Williams from Biffy Styles LLC.

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City Manager De'Carlon Seewood praised the diversity and welcoming nature of Columbia's small business community. "Each of these grant recipients is well deserving of this funding," he said. "I look forward to seeing how their businesses continue to thrive in Columbia."

To be eligible for the MBE Grant, businesses must have at least 51% ownership by individuals who self-identify as belonging to one or more minority categories: African, African American, Asian-Pacific, Black, Hispanic, Latinx, Native American (including Native Alaskan or Hawaiian), or Subcontinent Asian. Other requirements include being a for-profit entity registered with the State of Missouri and having a Federal Tax ID (EIN), a Columbia business license, and 10 or fewer employees.

Additionally, businesses must be actively working with a business coach through REDI or another organization and located within Columbia city limits.

The MBE Grant program highlights the City of Columbia's commitment to fostering the growth of minority-owned enterprises and driving economic progress. It serves as a testament to the city's dedication to inclusivity and providing equal opportunities for all businesses.

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