Together We’re Greater Fundraiser
Together We’re Greater
That is why Prosperity Market is partnering with Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF) on the “Together We’re Greater” Fundraiser to support four local, Black-owned businesses in their immediate time of need.
The Problem
During the pandemic, 41% of Black-owned businesses were forced to close. During that time, a surge of interest to support black entrepreneurs ensued leaving many hopeful. Three years later, the pledged support has waned and many Black and Brown businesses are on the verge of closing, yet again. With predatory lease agreements, hidden property improvement costs, lack of diversity in big business development, pandemic revenue loss, strict funding qualifications, and the everpresent systemic barriers, Black & Brown businesses are experiencing many of the struggles they faced during the pandemic.
Together We’re Greater
That is why Prosperity Market is partnering with Black Cooperative Impact Fund (BCIF) on the “Together We’re Greater” Fundraiser to support four local, Black-owned businesses in their immediate time of need.
The Problem
During the pandemic, 41% of Black-owned businesses were forced to close. During that time, a surge of interest to support black entrepreneurs ensued leaving many hopeful. Three years later, the pledged support has waned and many Black and Brown businesses are on the verge of closing, yet again. With predatory lease agreements, hidden property improvement costs, lack of diversity in big business development, pandemic revenue loss, strict funding qualifications, and the ever present systemic barriers, Black & Brown businesses are experiencing many of the struggles they faced during the pandemic.
The Plan
With your contribution, the “Together We’re Greater” Fundraiser will provide critical funding for The Lazy Rose Cafe, California Coffee Co, The Heart Department, and The Plant Chica to remain in operation. Spearheaded by Prosperity Market, this initiative will support each business as they navigate their own individual yet similar challenges.
Each featured organization has greatly impacted their communities and dozens of other small businesses through their work. Let’s show up for them the same way they selflessly show up for us each day.
Along with the immediate relief for each featured business, this campaign is ultimately meant to be part of a larger solution to keep all of our businesses thriving. The “Together We’re Greater” Fundraiser will:
- Bring awareness to the ongoing, systemic issues that Black-owned businesses face
- Demonstrate the significant impact that our businesses have in our communities
- Provide an example of how group economics and intentional support builds thriving communities
- Explore & initiate long-term solutions for economic impact
Meet The Businesses
The Plant Chica
More than a plant shop
Started in 2018 by Sandra Meija and her husband Bantalem Adis, The Plant Chica grew from hosting events outside Sandra’s parents garage to an online shop, and then a beloved neighborhood staple in West Adams. They turned an abandoned auto shop in Jefferson park into a greenhouse that became a green space and a safe place for their community.
The Plant Chica didn’t just sell plants. Their popular “adopt-a-plant” events garnered thousands of visitors, and the greenhouse was regularly bustling with yoga, wellness days, birthday parties, holiday celebrations, marketplaces featuring local entrepreneurs, and other community focused events.
Earlier this summer, The Plant Chica was forced out of their space by big developers, so they took the business online for the time being. Sandra and Bantalem are now looking for a new location in the Jefferson Park neighborhood to keep the magic of The Plant Chica alive. Funding from the “Together We’re Greater” Fundraiser will help them continue to “keep the hood green.”
Lazy Rose Cafe
Serving relaxation one sip at a time
This Black, woman, veteran, and family-owned coffee shop in Mid-City Los Angeles has made it their mission to advocate for rest and relaxation as a means to take care of our mental, spiritual, and social well-being. Far from lazy, founders Erdavria Rose, Antonio Martin, and Yvonne and Kevin Dunigan established the Lazy Rose Cafe in 2020 and officially opened their doors in February 2022.
Up against hidden property costs and permitting delays, the Lazy Rose Cafe had to postpone their opening for 6+ months to make critical updates to the space, while still paying rent. After finally being able to successfully open, Lazy Rose was hit with unexpected rent increases, making it difficult to catch their footing.
Funding from the “Together We’re Greater” Fundraiser will help Lazy Rose continue to stay in the space that they put so much time, effort, and love into renovating to serve Los Angeles.
California Coffee Company
Storytelling through coffee
The California Coffee Company is telling a new story about People of Color through the world’s most beloved beverage–a fitting mission for founder Rhasaan Nichols, who is a former documentary filmmaker. His vision is to honor the bold, resilient spirit of our forefathers through the building of community, commerce, and legacy.
Rhasaan’s own resilient spirit was put to test when after investing thousands of his own dollars, and nearly a year of renovation, was aggressively evicted out of his brick & mortar space without notice. Undeterred, California Coffee Co remains active online and at pop-up markets around the city. Funding from the “Together We’re Greater” will help California Coffee continue to expand while honoring legacy.
The Heart Dept.
Rental venue + BIPOC community center
The Heart Department lives in the intersection of arts, wellness, and social justice. Founded by artist and community organizer Shelley Bruce, the space is home to dozens of organizations with aligned, community-driven missions.
This safe haven for communities of color offers donation-based and free wellness workshops. Organizations can also rent the charming space for productions, events, classes, and other gatherings. The historic building presents a unique opportunity in the DTLA Arts District not often afforded to BIPOC community spaces, which The Heart Department is fighting for.
Despite being underfunded, The Heart Department has garnered much business success, yet they now have to fight in the competitive real estate market to keep their space. With active bids being placed on the building, a capital infusion from the “Together We’re Greater” Fundraiser will help The Heart Department secure their current location and continue being a safe space for BIPOC communities.
The Goal
Together, in one month we hope to raise at least $100k to be split evenly between the four businesses. In addition to financial contributions, we are also seeking partners with expertise in commercial real estate, business law or legal advisory, accounting and professional bookkeeping, grant writing, and small business development.
All “Together We’re Greater” contributions are being collected through BCIF and will be distributed to each business as a grant.
The Goal
Together, in one month we hope to raise at least $100k to be split evenly between the four businesses. In addition to financial contributions, we are also seeking partners with expertise in commercial real estate, business law or legal advisory, accounting and professional bookkeeping, grant writing, and small business development.
All “Together We’re Greater” contributions are being collected through BCIF and will be distributed to each business as a grant.
Contribute to the Campaign
Other ways to support
Attend Prosperity Market’s Black Business Month Pop-up Farmers Market
On Sun 8/27 at Hollywood Park in Inglewood to support each business.
Shop each business!
- Visit Lazy Rose Cafe for a cup of coffee.
- Buy plants online from The Plant Chica.
- Order coffee online from California Coffee Co.
- Attend a Heart Dept. event.
Tell a friend.
Share this campaign with your friends and family.
About BCIF
BCIF is a 501(c)3, community-based organization that provides zero-interest microloans to local, black-owned businesses. With a vision to provide dedicated, reliable, and perpetual sources of capital, BCIF is building wealth for the black community.
All “Together We’re Greater” contributions are being collected through BCIF and will be distributed to each business as a grant.
About Prosperity Market
Prosperity Market is a mobile farmers market featuring black farmers, food producers, and chefs. We travel throughout Los Angeles making it easy to support Black-owned businesses while creating food access for communities in need. With the overarching mission of transforming the local ecosystem and economy through agriculture, food access, nutrition education, and community partnerships, it’s clear why Prosperity Market is spearheading this effort.
stay informed