NAACP and Bacardi Announce Recipients of the Backing the B.A.R. Grant Partnership
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2024
Contact: Chyna Fields, cfields@naacpnet.org
WASHINGTON – Today, the NAACP, in partnership with Bacardi U.S.A., awarded grants to Black-owned bars, restaurants, nightclubs, lounges, liquor stores, and small businesses from the Backing the B.A.R. Grant. This program provides $10,000 grants along with access to valuable resources such as mentorship, tools, and networks.
"The NAACP extends a joyous congratulations to the recipients of the Backing the B.A.R. grant. In collaboration with Bacardi U.S.A., we celebrate our shared commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion within the beverage alcohol service, sales, and hospitality business landscape," said Yumeka Rushing, Chief Strategy Officer of the NAACP. "These grants stand to support and empower such deserving Black-owned hospitality businesses. We wish all the best to each recipient and look forward to the indelible impact your establishments will have in your respective communities."
Below are the latest Backing the B.A.R. Grant recipients:
- Tiffany Moore, Chef Tiffany
- Jasmine Frank, Cocktail Couture
- Elsa Moscoso, Comfort Foodies
- Crystal Render, Magnificent Morsels
- Mario Nnani, Melting Cups
- Kashif Smiley, Noir Columbus
- Herbert Sanders, Soul on Ice
- Victoria Beaty, The Botanical Bar
- Yvette Leeper-Bueno, Vinateria
- Shonda Forbes, Bulldog Bar and Grill
The grant program is designed to fuel the growth and resilience of minority-owned businesses, driving economic empowerment and creating lasting impact within the industry. Both the NAACP and Bacardi share a commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging within the hospitality industry. This grant creates opportunities for under-represented entrepreneurs to thrive and contribute to vibrant, resilient communities.
For more information about the Backing the B.A.R. Acceleration Grant program, please visit our website.
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About NAACP
The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.
NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.
About Bacardi U.S.A., Inc.
Bacardi U.S.A. Inc. is the United States import and distribution arm of family-owned Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held spirits company in the world. The company boasts a portfolio of some of the most recognized and top-selling spirits brands in the United States including BACARDÍ® rum, PATRÓN® tequila, GREY GOOSE® vodka, DEWAR'S® Blended Scotch Whisky, BOMBAY SAPPHIRE® gin, CAZADORES® 100% blue agave tequila, MARTINI vermouth and sparkling wines, the world's leading vermouth and the world's favorite Italian sparkling wines, and other leading and emerging brands. Founded more than 161 years ago in Santiago de Cuba, family-owned Bacardi Limited currently employs more than 8,000, operates production facilities in 11 countries and territories, and sells its brands in more than 160 markets. Bacardi Limited refers to the Bacardi group of companies, including Bacardi International Limited. Visit http://www.bacardilimited.com or follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram.