Columbia News

Regional Economic Development Inc. (REDI), serving as the City of Columbia’s Economic Development department, has announced the recipients of the 2024 Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) grants.

The MBE Grant program, funded by the City of Columbia, aims to promote inclusivity and support underrepresented businesses. The initiative highlights a commitment to fostering minority-owned enterprises and driving economic progress.

“Each year, we are impressed by the applicants for this grant,” said Stacey Button, president of REDI. “The ingenuity and drive of local entrepreneurs is evident, and we are thrilled to recognize these incredible small businesses who make up our community.”

Recognized as exceptional local entrepreneurs, the 2024 recipients posed with a giant novelty check after the award ceremony. Annually, REDI awards ten entrepreneurs with $5,000 each, resulting in a total grant fund of $50,000. This year’s recipients exemplify Columbia's entrepreneurial spirit.

“Our thriving small business community is one of the qualities of Columbia that make it such a welcoming and diverse city,” said City Manager De’Carlon Seewood. “Each of these grant recipients is well deserving of this funding, and I look forward to continuing to see how their businesses succeed in Columbia.”

The MBE Grant is awarded annually to businesses in Columbia whose ownership comprises 51% or more individuals who self-identify as African, African American, Asian-Pacific, Black, Hispanic, Latinx, Native American (including Native Alaskan or Hawaiian), or Subcontinent Asian.

REDI was founded in 1988 when community leaders recognized the need for collaboration to attract, expand, grow and support local businesses while preserving the area’s quality of life. As a nonprofit public/private partnership, REDI aims to enhance local business vitality and increase sustainable jobs in Columbia and Boone County.