EatOkra Black Women in Food Grant 2022

EatOkra, in partnership with Dine Diaspora, is providing grants for Black women-owned restaurants across the United States.  The EatOkra Black Women in Food Grant provides capital for Black women to accelerate growth for their brick and mortar restaurants.

The EatOkra Black Women in Food Grants provide capital for Black women to accelerate growth for their brick-and-mortar restaurants. Aligned with EatOkra’s values, the opportunity will enable these businesses to “spread their wings and embrace their visions for tomorrow.”  

Black women entrepreneurs face barriers to success due to limited access to funding as they receive less than 1% of venture capital, are three times more likely to be denied loans, and receive lower loan amounts even when approved.  Out of 17% of new businesses started by Black women, only 3% eventually become mature businesses.  While these businesses, especially restaurants, were hit hard by the pandemic, Black women-owned businesses are up by almost 30% on pre-pandemic levels.  With more accessible capital, Black-women owned restaurants can reach maturity and positively impact their communities.

About EatOkra

In 2016, Anthony and Janique Edwards created EatOkra as two Brooklyn transplants who didn’t have the means to cook or store food. Without a stove or refrigerator in their new apartment, the husband-wife duo sought out spaces that were inviting, familiar, and brimming with the food they loved or would grow to love. Immersing themselves in their new community, the co-founders explored ways to support local Black businesses and champion the vibrant, cultural voices of their neighborhood, eventually planting the seed for EatOkra.... read more... read more

EatOkra Black Women in Food Grant

Aim and Benefits of EatOkra Black Women in Food Grant

EatOkra, in partnership with Dine Diaspora, is providing $10,000 grants for Black women-owned restaurants across the United States. 

Requirements for EatOkra Black Women in Food Grant Qualification

• Self-identify as a Black woman

• Operate a brick-and-mortar restaurant location 

• Currently own at least 50 percent of a restaurant business

• Be a restaurant located in the United States

• Own three restaurants or less, and employ fewer than 50 employees per location

• Be open for at least six months, but no longer than 5 years 

Application Deadline

How to Apply

For more details, visit the website.