Downtown Baltimore Welcomes New Wave of Black-Owned Businesses

YHTL Contributor
Apr 15
2 min read

Downtown Baltimore is experiencing a vibrant transformation as five new Black-owned businesses open their doors, thanks to the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore’s BOOST (Black-Owned and Operated Storefront Tenancy) program. This initiative aims to revitalize the city’s core by filling vacant storefronts with innovative enterprises, fostering economic growth and community engagement.

🌟 Meet the Newest Additions to Downtown Baltimore

1. Kaizen Beauty founded by Ashleigh Johnson, Kaizen Beauty is a nail salon emphasizing hygienic practices and inclusivity. Recognizing that Black women constitute a significant portion of nail salon clientele yet represent less than 5% of salon ownership, Johnson aims to bridge this gap. The salon, located at 210 N. Charles St., also plans to launch an apprenticeship program to mentor aspiring nail technicians.

2. Diva by Candy Owned by Cindy Tawiah, Diva by Candy offers natural hair care and spa services. The beauty and wellness brand is set to open at 100 W. Lexington St., providing a sanctuary for clients seeking holistic beauty treatments.

3. Tribe Social Café Leron Levi brings a fusion of American cuisine with Caribbean and soul food influences to 235 E. Redwood St. Beyond serving breakfast and lunch, Tribe Social Café aspires to be a community hub, featuring an art gallery and event space to celebrate local talent.

4. Byrd’s Eye View James Mitchell’s Byrd’s Eye View is a film production school and creative incubator aiming to nurture Baltimore’s artistic youth. Sharing space with Kaizen Beauty at 210 N. Charles St., the studio offers resources and mentorship for budding filmmakers.

5. Making Art Matter Deja Richardson’s Making Art Matter focuses on empowering young artists through education and access to resources. Located at 307 W. Baltimore St., the program seeks to inspire creativity and provide a platform for youth expression.

💼 The BOOST Program: Empowering Black Entrepreneurs

Launched in 2021, the BOOST program provides each selected business with a $100,000 grant, comprehensive training, and support services, including lease assistance and marketing. The initiative addresses historical disparities in business ownership and aims to invigorate downtown Baltimore’s economy by supporting minority entrepreneurs.

Shelonda Stokes, President of the Downtown Partnership, emphasizes the program’s mission: “What we're talking about today with our BOOST program is reimagining Downtown, bringing Black and brown businesses into Downtown, and filling out vacant storefronts.”

📍 A New Era for Downtown Baltimore

These new establishments not only offer diverse services and products but also symbolize a broader movement toward inclusivity and community-driven development. As these entrepreneurs set up shop, they contribute to a dynamic and culturally rich downtown, inviting residents and visitors alike to experience the revitalized heart of Baltimore.

For more information on the BOOST program and its impact on Baltimore’s downtown revitalization, visit the Downtown Partnership of Baltimore’s BOOST Program page.

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