"Where Rural Roots Build Black Brilliance."
At Black Excellence WNC, we’re bridging the gap between opportunity and ambition—empowering Black entrepreneurs and tradespeople across Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties with the tools, training, and support to thrive.
🖤 Mission Statement
Black Excellence WNC is committed to transforming underserved communities by equipping Black residents in rural Western North Carolina with the skills, resources, and mentorship needed to launch and grow successful businesses and trades.
We believe that true change starts from within—and by investing in local talent, we’re building a legacy of excellence, empowerment, and economic freedom.
Empowerment Through Education
We provide trade skills training and entrepreneurial education to equip individuals with the tools they need to achieve economic independence.
Sustainable Economic Freedom
We don’t just offer quick fixes—we build lasting systems of support, mentorship, and business development to create generational wealth and self-sufficiency.
Community-Driven Growth
Our programs are rooted in the needs of rural Black communities in Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties, ensuring our work is relevant, accessible, and impactful.
🔧 Program Highlights – Black Excellence WNC
What we do at Black Excellence WNC:
🛠️ The Foundation Project
Our flagship initiative designed to lay the groundwork for economic independence. Through The Foundation Project, we provide hands-on trade skills training, access to essential tools, and business mentorship for aspiring Black entrepreneurs and skilled workers in Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties.
🎓 Trade Skills Training
From barbering and sewing to carpentry and welding, we equip participants with practical, income-generating skills. Led by certified instructors and local professionals, our training programs are culturally relevant, community-based, and free to those in need.
💼 Entrepreneur Bootcamps
We turn side hustles into thriving businesses. Our workshops cover everything from business planning and branding to licensing, marketing, and customer retention. We also help participants navigate legal setup, access capital, and build a solid foundation for long-term growth.
🤝 Mentorship & Community Support
No one succeeds alone. We connect participants with experienced business owners and community leaders who provide one-on-one mentorship, encouragement, and real-world insight. Alumni are encouraged to return as mentors, keeping the cycle of support alive.
Just A Little Help Can Make Their Hearts Happier.
500
How Many in the communtity we intend to help
240K
The opportunity to serve over 240k potential business owners in all 3 counties.
100%
Pure dedication will be provided, with no discrimination.
💬 Why I Do This
I grew up in a rural community where poverty was a part of daily life—not because people lacked talent or drive, but because they lacked access. I watched countless hardworking individuals with big dreams struggle to survive, let alone thrive. There were few local businesses, and those that did exist often failed—not from lack of effort, but from a lack of support and resources.
When I moved to the city, I saw what community investment could do. I saw Black-owned businesses thriving, people supporting each other, and opportunities flowing through networks that were built with intention. It opened my eyes—and broke my heart. Because I knew my hometown deserveImaged the same.
Black Excellence WNC was born out of a desire to bring that same energy, opportunity, and support back home. I want people in Burke, Caldwell, and Catawba counties—especially the Brown community—to know that they are seen, valued, and capable of building something powerful. This work is personal. It’s about giving back to the people and places that made me. And it’s about making sure no one with a dream is left behind just because of where they started.
WE ARE A COMMUNITY FOR A REASON
The connection between our organization and these counties is both strategic and personal. We are from these communities. We understand the barriers our people face because we’ve lived them. And that’s exactly why we’re here—not to impose solutions, but to build them together.
"Where Rural Roots Build Black Brilliance."
Just A Little Help Can Make Their Hearts Happier.
"Even the smallest act of kindness can bring joy and hope to someone in need. Just A Little Help Can Make Their Hearts Happier' reminds us that every effort counts when it comes to uplifting our community."