Chris Boozer faced a crucial decision: endure grueling warehouse overtime or take a leap of faith to start his own business. At 36, after a challenging journey that included prison time and failed job prospects due to his background, Boozer finally found his calling.
Boozer's entrepreneurial journey began with a simple observation: the inconvenience of trash disposal for apartment dwellers. This led to the creation of *Trash Porters*, a trash valet service that began with a single pickup truck. His breakthrough came when he won the New Castle County Chamber of Commerce’s Emerging Enterprise Center’s Swim with the Sharks Program, earning $10,000 to invest in his venture. Despite periods of homelessness and extensive research into sanitation certifications, Boozer's perseverance paid off with contracts from significant events and organizations.
Trash Porters is one of many Black-owned businesses thriving in Wilmington. The U.S. Census Bureau reports a 14% increase in Black-owned businesses since 2020, with the Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce boasting 148 members in the city. Wilmington's diverse population, where over half of the residents are Black, provides a supportive community for these enterprises.
Another success story is The Stand DE, founded by Antinette Watson. Originally a nonprofit hotdog stand focused on workforce skills for teenagers, it rapidly evolved into a profitable business. Watson’s breakthrough came through the Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystem (E3) program, and subsequent participation in the Kitchen Collective and other programs offered by the Delaware Black Chamber of Commerce. Wilmington offers a variety of small business resources. Latisha Bracy, Wilmington Alliance Entrepreneurship & Small Business Program Manager, highlights the city's rich but sometimes siloed support network. During the COVID-19 pandemic, initiatives like the Wilmington Strong fund provided crucial micro-grants to help businesses survive. Jason Aviles, co-founder of Green Box Kitchen, navigates the challenges of fluctuating foot traffic in Wilmington’s constantly evolving landscape. The rising presence of national chains and high rental costs pose additional hurdles for small businesses. However, Aviles underscores the need for continuous investment in local businesses to maintain the city’s diversity and vibrancy.
There’s optimism about Wilmington’s future. Entrepreneurs like Boozer, Watson, and Aviles see opportunities for growth and change. A mix of strategic investments, community support, and accessible resources could transform Wilmington into a thriving hub for small, Black-owned businesses. Antinette Watson’s optimism reflects a broader sentiment: “I see a change in the city, and there’s a diverse vibe around Black-owned businesses in Delaware. The city has so much potential, especially in the summer when it’s really alive.”
