Continuing The Legacy of
James A. Whitt Sr.
About our Foundation
Our Mission
To create and nurture opportunities that further economic development in support of Minority/Women Business enterprises in the City of Columbia and Mid-Missouri.
Our Vision
To boost social mobility, generational wealth, and large-scale economic growth of communities by championing successful Minority/Women Business Enterprises that spearhead the economic development of their communities and eliminate the race and gender wealth gaps that cause income
and wealth inequality.
Our Objective
To provide Minority/Women Business Enterprises with SEED Grant opportunities, business training workshops, coaching and mentoring services to increase their competitiveness and success in the marketplace.
Advocating for Minority & Women Owned Business Enterprises
As the director of Columbia's Supplier Diversity Program, James Whitt Sr. championed the growth of minority and women-owned businesses. He was recognized for his dedication to economic inclusivity, receiving accolades for his contributions to the business community. A cornerstone of his efforts was providing one-on-one consultations with business owners and entrepreneurs, offering guidance and connecting them with resources to ensure their success. His dedication laid a foundation for our foundations core values.
Honoring the Sharp End District
James Whitt Sr. was steadfast in his commitment to preserving the history of the Sharp End, Columbia's historic Black business district. From the early 1900s to the 1960s, the Sharp End stood as a hub for Black entrepreneurs, symbolizing resilience, economic empowerment, and community pride.
Building on this vision, Whitt developed the Sharp End Entrepreneurial Development Fund to provide SEED Grants, critical financial support to Minority and Women Business Enterprises (M/WBEs) in Columbia and Mid-Missouri. Our Foundation continues to provide these grants empowering minority and women entrepreneurs to overcome barriers, grow their businesses, and contribute to the region's economic vitality.
“Their stories, along with what happened to the Sharp End, must be known so that, as a community, we don’t make the same mistakes in the future.”
- James A. Whitt Sr.
Our Core Values
Empowerment Through Opportunity
We are dedicated to creating pathways for Minority and Women Business Enterprises (M/WBEs) to thrive. Through SEED Grants, training workshops, and mentorship programs, we empower entrepreneurs to overcome barriers and achieve their fullest potential.
Equity and
Inclusion
Our work is rooted in the belief that eliminating race and gender wealth gaps is essential for fostering equitable communities. By championing diverse businesses, we aim to create an inclusive economic landscape that uplifts all.
Sustainable
Economic Growth
We are committed to fostering generational wealth and social mobility by supporting the development of thriving, competitive businesses that contribute to the economic growth and vitality of Columbia and Mid-Missouri.
The Sharp End and Beyond
The early concept for highlighting the Sharp End’s history emerged in 2015 when Whitt and his friend Larry Monroe began identifying key places within the business district. Their vision laid the foundation for what would become The Shops at Sharp End, a revitalized space that honors the legacy of the vibrant Black business district from the early 1900s to the 1960s.
Preserving African American Heritage:
James A. Whitt Sr. dedicated his life to preserving and honoring the history of Columbia’s Black community. At the age of 69, he became the first chairman of the Sharp End Heritage Committee, where he worked tirelessly to commemorate the significance of the historic Black business district known as the Sharp End. Whitt also co-chaired the African American Heritage Trail Committee, leading efforts to install 22 historic markers across Columbia that memorialize the invaluable contributions of the city’s Black community.
Our Foundation
The Numbers
$145K+
In SEED Grants
Awarded
$250K+
In SEED Grant Funds Raised
62+
M/WBE's Awarded
A SEED Grant
100%
M/WBE's SEED Grant Awardees Report Improved Business Performance
The Life and Legacy of James A. Whitt Sr.
James A. Whitt Sr. was a dedicated community leader whose tireless efforts significantly shaped Columbia, Missouri. His commitment to education, economic development, and the preservation of Minority and Women Business Enterprises has left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations. A fierce advocate for equitable opportunities, he often said,
"None of us win until we all win."
- James A. Whitt Sr.
James Whitt Sr. was dedicated to preserving the history of the Sharp End, Columbia's historic Black business district. His efforts to honor its legacy of resilience and enterprise laid the groundwork for our initiatives to empower minority and women-owned businesses.
Championing Education and Community Development
James A. Whitt Sr. demonstrated unwavering dedication to education during his tenure on the Columbia School Board, serving as vice president from 2013 to 2015 and president from 2015 to 2017. He was instrumental in advancing initiatives aimed at fostering equity and enhancing the learning environment for all students. Notably, he advocated for the installation of air conditioning in all district schools, ensuring a comfortable and conducive atmosphere for education.
Continuing the Legacy of Youth Empowerment
James' commitment to education extended beyond infrastructure improvements; he was a staunch proponent of equitable opportunities for every student. His efforts to promote diversity and inclusion within the educational system have left a lasting impact on the community. Inspired by his legacy, our foundation remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs through comprehensive educational programs and resources, empowering them to achieve their fullest potential.
“I have never thought about stopping. As long as I have something to give back to the community I will continue to do everything that I can.”
- James A. Whitt Sr.
Executive Board Members
Annelle B. Whitt, JD
President
The Rev. Shug Goodlow
Vice President
Marcus Whitt
Executive Director
Jimmy Whitt Jr.
Treasurer
Matt Moore
Board Member
Shannon Willson, JD
Board Member
Kim Whitt Tanner
Board Member
Advisory Board Members
Holly Burton-Aro
Dr. Gregory Croll
Carin Croll
Teo Cooper
Molly Delgado
Fontella Ford-Henry
Lynne Glindemann
Doris Goodlow
Alejandra Gudińo
Susan Hart
Barbra Horrell
Carla London
Heather McArthur
Michael Middleton, Esq
Sarah Moreau
Dennis Smith
Daryl Smith
Stacye Smith
Cherrie Whitt
Dr. Lester Woods
Empowering the Future
James' unwavering dedication to education and economic development has profoundly influenced Columbia's community and economic landscape. His initiatives for equitable educational opportunities and supporting minority and women-owned businesses, have laid a robust foundation for future growth and inclusivity. Our foundation is committed to building upon his legacy by continuing to empower entrepreneurs and fostering a vibrant, diverse economy in Columbia.
