Nashville Black Market - July 3

By Writing By Design Media, Inc. Staff

Carlos Partee and Javvon Jones, founders of Nashville Black Market, will host the annual event on Saturday, July 3 at 1037 28th Ave. in Hadley Park. The event includes black-owned businesses who have products and goods to sell.

Pictured: Carlos Partee (L) and Javvon Jones (R) - Courtesy photos

Partee answered these questions with professional journalist, Paula Anderson about the upcoming event.

A Candid Conversation with Carlos Partee, co-founder of Nashville Black Market

Q1: The pandemic has impacted black businesses disproportionately compared to white business owners. How is the Nashville Black Market addressing this issue?

A: “By giving Black Businesses in Nashville a safe haven to promote and sell their products. Last year we stated a lot of businesses wouldn’t be around in 2021, due to the pandemic. We’re working hard to make sure that those statistics don’t happen, the goal for 2021-2022 is to create more opportunities for business owners outside of our markets.”

Q2: As an entrepreneurship instructor, what are the challenges that you see with entrepreneurs?

A: “As an instructor I’ve noticed entrepreneurs face multiple challenges within starting a business. A lot of black entrepreneurs don’t know where to start or where to get information from. Social media and marketing strategies are becoming business owners' main focus and many entrepreneurs are not able to capitalize from it.”

Q3: You mentioned in another article, 'that 40 percent of black businesses will not survive COVID-19,' --- what is the most important thing for entrepreneurs to know at this time?

A: Entrepreneurs at this time need to know “where there is a will there's a way”. Stay positive, focused, and find you a support team or a mentor to help you flush out your ideas.

Q4: This magazine edition will focus on Juneteenth and the impact of economic development in the black community. Can you share the economic impact of the Nashville Black Market?

A: The Nashville Black Market has helped over 300 businesses in Nashville, surrounding cities and states. We’ve partnered with schools like Hillsboro High School and community centers to teach students about entrepreneurship. Our last event during the pandemic, 60 Black vendors combined grossed over $30,000 in 5 hours.

Q5: What advice would you offer to aspiring entrepreneurs about business ownership?

A: My advice will be to plan, plan, plan. Always think ahead and strategize your way to your end goal. As a business owner there are so many ideas that come to mind everyday but you can’t get distracted on your end goal.