In the vibrant Greenwood district of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Venita Cooper is making waves with her store Silhouette Sneakers & Art. This area, once known as Black Wall Street, holds a deep historical significance for Black entrepreneurship. Cooper’s business stands on the legacy of Grier Shoe Shop, which was tragically destroyed in the Tulsa Race Massacre over a century ago.

Today, Cooper is at the forefront of a new wave of Black entrepreneurs in Tulsa, leveraging innovation and technology to drive their businesses forward. Through ventures like Arbit, an AI platform for the shoe resale market, Cooper is tapping into Tulsa’s rich history for inspiration and support.

Cooper’s journey includes participation in Act House, an accelerator program providing financial support and collaboration opportunities for entrepreneurs of color. This program has been pivotal in empowering a new generation of minority business owners in Tulsa.

The Greenwood district, also known as Black Wall Street, faced devastation during the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. Despite this tragic history, local advocates are working tirelessly to rebuild the community and empower Black entrepreneurs.

Build In Tulsa, a network of organizations supporting minority-owned businesses, is central to this mission. By providing resources and opportunities, these groups aim to create a more inclusive and thriving ecosystem for founders in Tulsa.

While progress has been made, funding remains a significant hurdle for Black founders across the country. Disparities in access to capital continue to impede the growth of minority-owned businesses.

Entrepreneurs like Olaoluwa Adesanya are navigating the complexities of funding by seeking support from programs focused on founders of color. Despite the challenges, communal support in Tulsa has been instrumental in propelling these businesses forward.

Entrepreneurship is a powerful tool for Black communities to create generational wealth and break free from systemic barriers. By honoring the legacy of past generations and drawing inspiration from their resilience, Black entrepreneurs are paving the way for a brighter future.

As Black founders continue to defy the odds and strive for success, they are not only building businesses but also fulfilling the dreams of their ancestors. Their journey is a testament to the strength and determination of a community that refuses to be held back.

— NBC’s Shaquille Brewster, Parnia Mazhar, and Andrew Davis contributed to this report.