Bartholomew Jones, a Memphis-based rapper and educator, has transitioned into the coffee industry with his venture — Cxffeeblack. Through this company, the artist aims to address economic disparities and create opportunities for Black youth.
Bartholomew Jones calls attention to the fact that coffee is a product with roots in Africa and has historically been cultivated by enslaved Africans but rarely owned by Black individuals. The rapper is working to reclaim this legacy. Cxffeeblack focuses on training young Black creatives in various aspects of the coffee business, including roasting, supply chain management, marketing, and entrepreneurship. By doing so, the brand provides employment opportunities while empowering participants to engage in an industry valued at $500 billion.
Through a WeFunder campaign, Cxffeeblack offers investment opportunities, with perks such as free coffee for life and early access to franchising and wholesale options.
Image Credit: Cxffeeblack
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Youth-led Coffee Enterprises
- The rise of coffee ventures led by young Black entrepreneurs demonstrates a shift towards inclusive economic empowerment within the industry.
- Cultural Reclamation in Coffee
- There is a growing movement to reclaim the African heritage of coffee production, emphasizing ownership and historical narrative by Black individuals.
- Education-driven Brand Initiatives
- Empowering educational programs within coffee brands are fostering a new generation of skilled Black professionals in the coffee supply chain.
Sectors Adopting This
- Specialty Coffee
- The specialty coffee sector is witnessing increased diversity as entrepreneurs bring cultural insights and heritage-focused brands into the mainstream.
- Social Impact Investment
- Investment platforms that prioritize social impact are gaining traction, supporting ventures that address racial and economic inequalities.
- Youth Employment Programs
- Industries focusing on youth employment are seeing innovative models that combine skills training with entrepreneurship, particularly in cultural sectors.
