As I consider the potential within Jacksonville, a fundamental truth emerges: When Black America wins, America wins. This is especially relevant as we leverage opportunities within our city’s foreign trade zone and opportunity zones, striving for success and prosperity for all of Duval. Just like the Jaguars at home, we can score big in the End Zone.

It’s Not About Handouts, But Handshakes:

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. asked, “What good is a desegregated lunch counter without a desegregated dollar?” This question highlights our pursuit of equitable economic opportunities in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. We aim to build and thrive, not with handouts, but through handshakes in partnership.

Shift from Trying to Training:

Success demands focus and proactivity. We must shift from trying to prioritize training individuals to seize forthcoming opportunities, particularly in artificial intelligence, as well as in economic, business, and emotional intelligence. Historically, our ancestors achieved much with less. Now, it’s time to do more with more by maximizing available resources and networks.

Closing the Wealth Gap:

However, a stark disparity persists: Black entrepreneurs often start with significantly less capital than their white counterparts. For example, African American male entrepreneurs often start with just $25,000 to $35,000, a fraction of the $150,000 to $200,000 that their white counterparts might raise. This inequity reflects systemic barriers to capital, networks, and resources. In 2023, Black founders received only 0.48% of all venture capital funding in the U.S.

Key factors contributing to these disparities include:

1. Access to Capital: Historical credit disparities and limited access to financial institutions impede loan acquisition. In 2024, the SBA backed 5,054 loans to Black-owned businesses, totaling $1.4 billion, accounting for 7.2% of total loans approved. By comparison, white business owners received $12 billion, making up 45.5% of loans approved.

2. Networks and Relationships: Existing professional networks often favor insiders, hindering minority entrepreneurs’ access to potential investors.

3. Economic Background: The wealth gap affects the ability to self-fund or secure loans. The median household net worth for Black families is 14 times lower than that of whites.

4. Bias and Stereotypes: Implicit biases can skew perceptions of minority entrepreneurs and influence investment decisions.

Fortunately, programs exist to support minority entrepreneurs. The SBA 8(a) Business Development Program and the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) offer crucial resources. Local organizations like the Black Business Investment Fund (BBIF) empower Black-owned businesses in Florida. In fiscal year 2023, the MBDA facilitated access to $1.5 billion in capital for minority-owned businesses.

We can bridge these gaps through collaboration and community support, fostering partnerships with corporations and leveraging programs designed to uplift minority entrepreneurs.

As we strive for success in Duval, we must recognize our interconnected victories. When our community thrives, so does our city, state, and nation. Together, we can achieve the economic empowerment envisioned by Martin Luther King Jr., fostering a more just and inclusive society.

Let’s continue to connect, collaborate, and conquer. We are stronger together!

– Dr. Nahshon Nicks Entrepreneur, Community Builder, & Christian Black Belt

Resources:

When looking retrospectively, “When Black America wins, America wins” is not just a statement but rather a pathway to global dominance for our country. Since the Civil Rights era, the Black community has shown itself to be capable of contributing at every level of society. When Black America has proper investment in education, skill-based training, and, more importantly, the opportunity to thrive, America sharpens its competitive edge and dominates on the global stage. To make America great again, we must ensure that all of America’s boats float with the tide.

By Terrance J. Ray Investment Advisor Representative., Thrivent Financial.

“My commitment is to people equity, where every individual is afforded access to opportunity, regardless of background. Through my work, I have found that social capital—the strategic relationships we build—serves as the greatest accelerator of human and economic potential. When we invest in people, strengthen communities, and design systems that reward contribution over condition, everyone wins. Progress is not achieved by lifting a few, but by empowering the many.”

— By Grant G. (2025)

In the boardroom and in the sanctuary, I’ve learned that a rising tide lifts every boat—if we’re willing to build bridges across the waters. When Black America wins, it’s not just a victory for our families, churches, and communities—it’s a victory for the soul of this nation.

Each time a Black entrepreneur thrives, a neighborhood gains hope. Every time a young man or woman steps into leadership with confidence and conviction, rooted in faith and resilience, America gets stronger. The success of Black America isn’t a niche story—it’s the heartbeat of inclusive progress, of what it means to truly walk in unity.

For centuries, we’ve turned trials into testimonies and setbacks into sacred strategies. Our businesses, ministries, and movements stand as both economic engines and moral compasses. When we are empowered—through education, opportunity, and justice—we bring transformation not just to our people, but to the entire national fabric.

It’s time for America to stop treating Black success as an exception and begin celebrating it as a shared blessing. Because when Black America wins, America finds its rhythm, its reason, and its righteousness.

— By TL Brisbane Sr.