Business

Dear Friends & Partners,  As I wrap up my first full month as president & CEO of the BDC, I want to share a bit about what I’ve been focused on since stepping into this role. I’ve spent these first weeks listening to our staff, small businesses, community organizations, and partners across the city. Baltimore is full of people who care deeply about its future, and these conversations have reinforced one key truth: we have a big job on our hands to make reality stronger than perception in Baltimore. That means telling a new story. One that reflects the hard…

BMORENews Branding Bootcamp, March 15th :: EARLY BIRD SPECIAL 9

A Small Business Masterclass Saturday, March 15, 2025 ⏰ 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM (Bonus Networking Reception to Follow) Location: Shared Upon RSVP to BMORENewsBrandingBootcamp.eventbrite.com Presented by Fox & Lion Communications, LLC in conjunction with BMORENews.com Ready to Take Your Brand to the Next Level? Join industry experts and media professionals for an exclusive branding masterclass designed for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Learn strategies to build, market, and protect your brand, while networking with top media influencers. Featured Experts Include: ✔️ Doni Glover – Media Visionary & CEO, BMORENews ✔️ Kenny Brown – Publisher, Northwest VOICE Newspaper ✔️ Ericka…

Opinion: The Financial Reality of Black Organizations: A Call for Strategic Change

(TULSA – February 24, 2025) – I’m currently researching the financial positions of major Black organizations—including the NAACP, Urban League, NSBE, NPHC organizations, NBMBAA, UNCF, and others—as well as HBCU endowments. My intent isn’t to be confrontational; rather, this is an offer to help. Many people in leadership roles may not fully grasp the broader systemic challenges at play, and it’s important to recognize that these financial struggles aren’t isolated to individual organizations. The reality is that resources are limited, underscoring the need for reparations. However, even without them, there’s a lot we can do. While the combined assets of these…

The Doni Glover Show Returns to the Airwaves

(BALTIMORE – February 23, 2025)—After a hiatus, The Doni Glover Show made its much-anticipated return to television in December, featuring on WMAR TV 2. The first episode brought powerful voices to the forefront, discussing economic development, business, and recovery efforts in Baltimore. Among the esteemed guests was Charlyn Nater, the Baltimore Main Street coordinator, who shared insights on efforts to support small businesses and revitalize local corridors. Chad Williams, Executive Director of the West North Avenue Development Authority, detailed plans for the $28 million investment to redevelop West North Avenue—an area long overlooked but now poised for transformation. The episode…

Black Bank, Black Developer, Black Restaurant: Ribbon Cutting for The Madison 801 (SEE VIDEOS & PICS)

Shareef’s Latest Expansion (BALTIMORE – February 18, 2025) – Today marked the grand opening of The Madison 801, a new upscale sit-down restaurant in East Baltimore, just steps from Johns Hopkins Hospital. This latest venture further solidifies Shareef’s brand as a Greater Baltimore metropolitan area staple. The restaurant’s success is a testament to the vision and dedication of Shareef Faulcon and his wife, Sydney Shaw, who deserve high praise for their entrepreneurial spirit. The Madison 801 results from efforts led by The Harbor Bank of Maryland, a historic Black-owned institution founded by Joseph Haskins. Decades after Haskins went door to…

Chukes Okoro Recognized at Ribbon Cutting of The Madison 801 

​   Developer making strides in Baltimore Chukes Okoro started this business about 20 years ago after coming to Baltimore from the U.K., where he was working as a computer scientist. After renovating his first property in 1997, real estate became his passion. bringing old, historic buildings back to life and creating thriving communities.​Holding a Bachelor’s and Master’s background in Mathematics, Statistics, and Decision Modelling, Chukes has instilled a rigorous analytical approach to successfully develop projects, developing 50+ properties across single-family historic, multi-family, and commercial.Additionally, Chukes is looking to expand on the company’s long-term proven track record of success by using the knowledge gained…

TGR: Annie Turnbo Malone, The Mother of the Black Hair Care Industry

(February 17, 2025) – Every now and then, I am reminded of the Mother of the Black Hair Care industry. Why? Because people often associate the industry with Madam C. J. Walker (no slight intended), I am compelled to remind folks who actually mentored Walker. I think it is important to help people see the bigger picture. We are easily attracted to millionaires and billionaires. Of course! I think it is essential, however, to give credit where credit is due. Meet today’s champion of courage: Annie Turnbo Malone (August 9, 1877 – May 10, 1957). She was one phenomenal Black…

Want to Know How to Write a Book? See you at the Black Wall Street EXPO, 2.22.25

(BALTIMORE – February 17, 2025) – Want to unlock the secrets of successful authors? Join us for an exclusive workshop featuring a panel of seasoned experts. RSVP now at BlackWallStreetExpo2025.eventbrite.com. 11:00 AM – Workshop: How to Write a Book Moderator: David Miller, acclaimed children’s book authorPanelists: Nikiea Redmond, Ryan C. Greene, SMonique, Stephanie Henderson, Dr. Leroy McKenzie, and Alex Green This must-attend session for aspiring authors will explore the essentials of writing, publishing, and book sales. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from industry professionals!

Black Wall Street EXPO 2025 Set for Feb. 22nd at DCAC, 401 N. Howard St.

(BALTIMORE – February 15, 2025) – The Black Wall Street EXPO 2025 is coming!  Step into a powerful celebration, inspiration, and empowerment day at the Black Wall Street EXPO 2025! This premier event highlights Black excellence and entrepreneurship, bringing together business owners, community leaders, and changemakers for a transformative experience. Event Highlights: ✨ Black-Owned Business Showcase – Discover and support a variety of vendors offering unique products and services.🏆 Joe Manns Black Wall Street Awards & Black Wall Street Youth Awards – Honoring visionary entrepreneurs, innovators, and young trailblazers.🤝 Networking & Connections – Engage with like-minded individuals, industry leaders, and business professionals.📚…

Howard County: Federal Workers CAREER FAIR, Feb. 25th

(HOWARD COUNTY, MD – February 14, 2025) – Navigating career transitions can be challenging, but Howard County is here to help. On Tuesday, February 25th, at 6:00 p.m., join us at Howard Community College’s Dwight A. Burrill Galleria for a Federal Workers Career Fair. This event will bring together public- and private-sector employers, offering networking opportunities, job resources, and career support. Attendees can also get a free professional headshot to enhance their job search. If you or someone you know is a federal worker impacted by recent employment changes, we encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity. Your next…