Black-led, Women-led Soul Food Concept Preserves Soul Food Traditions While Empowering the Community
IRVINGTON, N.J. – As economic disparities continue to widen across the United States, Cornbread – a fast casual, farm-to-table soul food concept bringing a soul food experience to diners in NJ and NY communities, is proud to be part of the growing movement of Black-owned businesses that are making significant contributions to communities across the United States. Co-founder of the brand, Adenah Bayoh, is calling attention to the critical need for increased support for minority-owned businesses, emphasizing their essential role in fueling economic growth, creating job opportunities, and preserving cultural heritage. In a world where culinary excellence often meets cultural responsibility, Bayoh has created a legacy dedicated to preserving and uplifting Black traditions.
The Case for Minority-Owned Businesses: Key Facts and Statistics
- Rising Minority Entrepreneurship: Minority groups have increasingly turned to entrepreneurship, driven by necessity for financial success. Over the last 25 years, the share of new Black entrepreneurs increased from 8.4% to 10.1%, while the share of new white entrepreneurs declined from 77.1% to 54.5%.
- Economic Impact: Minority-owned businesses contribute over $1.4 trillion to the U.S. economy and employ more than 8.9 million people, and provide essential goods and services to diverse communities and assist with stimulating economic activity, especially in underserved areas.
- Barriers to Growth: Despite their contributions, minority-owned businesses face significant challenges. In 2021, 13% of Black-owned firms received all the financing they sought in the 12 months prior to the survey, compared to 40% of white-owned firms. Additionally, minority entrepreneurs are less likely to have access to loans, venture capital, or other forms of investment.
- Need for Targeted Support: There is a pressing need for policies and initiatives that can help minority-owned businesses overcome these barriers to growth. Programs that offer access to capital, mentorship, business development resources, and networking opportunities are crucial for leveling the playing field and ensuring long-term success.
“Minority-owned businesses are not just an economic imperative; they are a vital component of our community fabric,” said Bayoh. “In the face of employment gaps and a lack of economic mobility, entrepreneurship offers a pathway to self-sufficiency and empowerment. Supporting these businesses is essential for fostering inclusive growth and creating opportunities where they are needed most. By investing in minority-owned business, we invest in the future of our communities and the prosperity of our nation.”
Bayoh’s Journey
Bayoh has first-hand experience with the transformative potential of opening her own business. She first got her start as an entrepreneur collecting rent for her grandmother back in her village as a child. Her grandmother, who was a farmer and fellow restaurant owner, was her initial inspiration for her successful career. After escaping the Liberian Civil War at the age of 13, she set off on a journey that led her to becoming one of the most influential entrepreneurs in the real estate space, as well as a successful restauranteur with a diverse and profitable portfolio, launching Cornbread in 2017. Her work has led her to make the ROI-NJ Super 60 List and ROI-NJ Influential People of Color List due to her significant financial and cultural contributions to the state of New Jersey.
Cornbread: A Model of Community-Centered Business
Cornbread is a fast-casual farm-to-table restaurant serving authentic, savory soul food. The brand prioritizes providing a unique and family friendly dining experience, and upholding the tradition of soul food bringing families and communities together over a meal. The co-founders worked hard to develop real and delicious flavor profiles for every single dish, ensuring each meal meets their standards of excellence.
As a Black women-led business, Cornbread is committed to preserving and uplifting Black traditions while empowering and giving back to the communities it serves. Bayoh recognizes the importance of representation and leadership within her community, and has made it Cornbread’s mission to not only provide excellent food, but create job opportunities and a place of culture for women and members of the Black community. Bayoh has opened four Cornbread locations, fostering a positive and inclusive culture in each one, prioritizing an environment that celebrates diversity and encourages collaboration. Through her work to provide opportunities for minorities to gain growth and development, she is helping to shape the next generation of leaders and create a true legacy.
“Cornbread is more than just a restaurant to enjoy good food, it’s a statement of our commitment to cultural representation and community development,” continued Bayoh.“A key element of our mission is creating opportunities and prioritizing giving back to our local communities we serve. The tradition of soul food represents the importance of family and the strong ties that bring a community together, and we uphold that tradition every step of the way.”
For more information on Cornbread, or its job opportunities, please visit https://cornbreadsoul.com/ .
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