As Black History Month comes to a close, Next Street is shining a light on the principles of self-determination and self-reliance—both of which have been essential to Black empowerment and freedom movements across the globe. One of the most powerful tools for self-determination and economic independence is entrepreneurship. In fact, more than one in five Black adults in the United States say owning a business is essential to their personal definition of financial success, according to a 2023 Pew Research Center survey.
To honor Black History Month and launch our 2025 Small Business Interview Series, we sat down with three successful Black entrepreneurs who exemplify how small business ownership can drive economic mobility and wealth creation—not just for their families, but for their communities. They shared what inspired them to become entrepreneurs, how Next Street and its partners provided critical support to help them thrive, and how they’ve navigated pivotal moments to adapt and succeed in an ever-changing economic landscape.
Check out our inspiring conversations below.
Kadidja Kabore-Lamport
Kadidja Handmade Collection
Dr. Keven P. Jackson, DDS
Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry
Daniel Browne
Direct Rapid Irrigation Program (DRIP)