November 26th 2025.
Daijah Wade, a passionate entrepreneur, found more than just an office when she joined the Madison, Wisconsin Black Business Hub. The hub gave her a sense of hope and a promising future for her business. Wade had been running The Walking Jerk, her Caribbean plant-based to-go restaurant, as a catering-only operation until she discovered the Hub in August of 2024. With the help of the Hub, she now owns a permanent shop on the first floor and has been able to expand her menu and reach a wider audience. Being part of this community of like-minded individuals has made her feel welcomed and appreciated, and she is grateful for the opportunity to connect and collaborate with other entrepreneurs.
This remarkable $25.5 million, 80,000 square-foot facility, managed by the Urban League of Greater Madison, has a specific goal in mind – to foster a "Black Renaissance" in South Madison. The leaders at the Urban League recognize the pressing need for economic justice and equity, and this center is their way of addressing this issue. They have designed the resource center to support businesses not just for the present, but for generations to come.
The mastermind behind this project is CEO Dr. Ruben Anthony, who was motivated by a troubling statistic – only 0.04% of businesses in Dane County with more than one employee are African American-owned. This staggering disparity has persisted for decades, and Dr. Anthony knew that a consolidated and dedicated center like the Black Business Hub could finally close this gap. The building itself is a symbol of hope, with its vibrant colors and modern architecture. The brown overhang is a nod to the traditional urban stoops that have long been a gathering place for communities, and it adds a warm and inviting touch to the space.
The Black Business Hub is a one-stop-shop for entrepreneurs, providing all the necessary resources under one roof. Business owners have access to specialized training programs, and financial organizations such as Hope Community Capital and Forward Community Investment are located on the upper floors for easy access to funding information. Since its inception, the Hub has successfully engaged with over 200 entities through its various programs and pop-up events, making a significant impact on the community.
Dr. Anthony firmly believes that the Black Business Hub is a crucial engine driving economic growth in South Madison, and he is confident that it will continue to be a "gift that keeps on giving" for many years to come. This sentiment is echoed by the recent announcement of the Virginia Lottery's plan to spend $43 million with minority firms, including Black businesses, in 2026. The Black Business Hub is a shining example of what can be achieved when communities come together to support and uplift one another.
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