Black Business Week: Northside Epicenter | Opinion

If I have the leverage and the power and the ownership to shift this community, it can be bigger than just me bringing Arubah here.

Black Business Week is a time to celebrate the achievements of Black entrepreneurs, highlight their essential role in community development, and acknowledge the ongoing work to close the wealth gap. Nationally, Black-owned businesses now contribute more than $207 billion to the economy, with annual revenues growing by over 43% since 2012. These gains are the result of vision, perseverance, and community support—qualities embodied by the Northside Epicenter.

As we enter Black Business Week, it’s a powerful moment to honor the progress, resilience, and vision of Black entrepreneurs—especially those transforming North Minneapolis. At the heart of this movement stands the Northside Epicenter, an ambitious project reclaiming the historic Camden Park State Bank building as a vibrant hub for Black-owned businesses and community wealth.

The Northside Epicenter is more than a renovated building—it is a symbol of freedom and self-determination for Black business owners. This initiative was born from a desire to create a home for a mental health practice, Arubah Emotional Health Services, but quickly evolved into a mission to build a thriving Black business ecosystem.

With 20,000 square feet of space, the Epicenter houses 14 Black-owned businesses, each handpicked to provide products and services that reflect and serve the North Minneapolis community. From an apothecary to a law office, these businesses are not only meeting local needs—they are building pathways to generational wealth and economic power.

For too long, Black entrepreneurs have faced barriers to accessing capital, commercial real estate, and supportive networks. The Northside Epicenter directly addresses these challenges by offering affordable, accessible brick-and-mortar opportunities and a communal space for business owners to connect, collaborate, and grow. This intentional recirculation of the Black dollar strengthens the local economy and empowers community members to shape their own futures.

As we spotlight Black businesses across the country, the Epicenter stands as a living example of what is possible when Black business owners have the freedom and resources to own, build, and thrive. It is a testament to progress, ownership, and the collective power of community.

The Northside Epicenter is not just about today’s businesses—it’s about creating a legacy. By fostering an environment where Black entrepreneurs can access space, support, and opportunity, the Epicenter is helping to lay the foundation for generational wealth and a more equitable future for North Minneapolis and beyond.

As we honor Black Business Week, let us celebrate the Northside Epicenter and all those who are forging new paths of ownership, freedom, and prosperity for Black communities.

We’re going to drive what that corner is going to look like aesthetically, emotionally…and we’re going to honor Black bodies”.

We hope you will join us!!