A Word From The President

Greg Hedgepeth, President & CEO

Greg Hedgepeth speaks with other Black entrepreneurs at Black Dollar co-working space "The Factory" in Raleigh, NC

Let me start by saying thank you, thank you to each and every person that allowed us to share their story and thank you to each and every person that will take a moment and read through this issue. I always want to give thanks because if it wasn't for you all, there would be no Substantial. The reason we continue to champion the narratives of our community is so that others can for themselves see what we've always known—that we are Substantial, and so is everything we do.  

I sat in my thoughts regarding just how Substantial can continue to support Black business owners and 

entrepreneurs, and it hit me—

 "continue to be a megaphone that amplifies the amazing stories of Substantial people." 

In fact, it's the reason black media in general continues to be so important. We will always find a way to amplify the positive stories of our community to combat the negative stereotypes and stigmas that mainstream media has for years placed upon us. We will call attention to the amazing efforts of our community leaders, advocates, business owners, and youth that may not be "big enough" for mainstream or who's stories don't have all the elements needed to make the news. Black media will always be a space for Black people and for me, that's Substantial. Black media played a critical role back in 1827, during the civil rights era, and is just as critical now.

As we dedicate this issue to Black business owners, Black entrepreneurs and the institutions and organizations that support them, we ask that you reach out to them, shop with them, connect with them and take advantage of the resources and services that they may have available. 

I was thrilled to sit down with some of our well known and historically recognized organizations that have been champions for Black/minority business owners in our state. 

The leaders of these organizations have a passion to serve and are constantly trying to find ways to improve the economic well being of our communities. 

Let's not even begin to talk about the number of Black business owners and entrepreneurs we've had the 

opportunity to sit down with over the summer.

We're honored to share the stories of those featured here, but there are so many others that are deserving as well.

We hope to continue to find ways to spotlight and celebrate all that is Substantial about our businesses and our community. Stay tuned, subscribe and support! 

As I always say, we are the very definition of Substantial—of considerable important, size and worth. Strongly built and made. The essentials of something.

We are Substantial and so is everything we do!