Reflections of Black Entrepreneurs on Business Opportunities in Boston Since the NAACP Convention

The 114th National NAACP convention, held in Boston, marked a significant turning point for two Black entrepreneurs, Ricardo Pierre-Louis and Rose Staram. Following the convention, both entrepreneurs secured significant business contracts with the city of Boston for their respective companies, Privé Parking and RoseMark Production. Over five months later, both individuals reflect on the current state of Black business opportunities in Boston and express their hopes for the future.

Rose Staram, the owner and founder of RoseMark Production, expressed her disappointment in the lack of contracts with non-Black-owned businesses in Boston since the convention. Despite being hired by the Black Economic Council of Massachusetts for a two-day event, she has encountered challenges in breaking into the local business scene. Staram emphasized the importance of connections and likeability in Boston’s business environment, which has proven to be a barrier for her company.

Conversely, Ricardo Pierre-Louis, the CEO of Privé Parking, expressed gratitude for the exposure his company gained at the convention, leading to the receipt of two grants totaling £20,000. This funding enabled Privé Parking to revamp its website and become a member of Meet Boston. While the company secured a one-day contract for a Christmas tree lighting event in Downtown Boston, additional opportunities have not materialised.

Both entrepreneurs are encouraged by the efforts made by Mayor Wu to increase contracts with Black vendors, but they also acknowledge that there is still a long way to go for equitable business opportunities in the city. Staram mentioned the need for more significant strides by the state and the Boston Convention Center in this regard.

Looking to the future, Pierre-Louis aims to secure a parking garage and parking lot management contract with the Boston Planning & Development Agency, a contract that has historically been awarded to a publicly traded company in California. His hope is for a genuine change in the allocation of such contracts, allowing for increased opportunities for Black entrepreneurs in Boston.

Staram echoed the sentiment, highlighting the talent and potential of Black entrepreneurs and the need for equal opportunities in the business landscape. She emphasized the importance of bringing in and nurturing local Black talent, challenging the notion that there is a lack of entrepreneurial Black individuals in Boston.

In conclusion, the reflections of Rose Staram and Ricardo Pierre-Louis shed light on the ongoing challenges faced by Black entrepreneurs in Boston despite initial successes following the NAACP convention. While there have been positive developments, it is evident that there is still significant work to be done to foster a more inclusive and equitable business environment in the city.