Success Stories

Ervin Worthy, owner of Worthy Construction Group 2G LLC, advises fellow entrepreneurs to “stick it out,” noting that the rewards come after the hard work. To expand his business and access larger projects, Worthy sought MBE (Minority Business Enterprise) and EDGE certifications from the State of Ohio. He credits Misty Rogers and Melanie Korman at the Akron Urban League’s MBAC for guiding him through the arduous application process.

Worthy also joined the first cohort of the Minority Contractor Capital Access Program (MCCAP), which helps minority-owned construction firms grow. Construction is in his blood; his father and grandfather migrated from Alabama to Akron during the housing boom, and his father was among the first minorities in the local carpenters’ union. Worthy launched his own company in 2017, using “2G” in the name to honor his status as a second-generation builder. Now certified, he is focused on navigating government procurement.

MBAC would like to celebrate India Rush, Owner and CEO of India INK Tattoo Company as being the recipient of the 2023 “At Your Service” MBAC Award and complimentary $500 cash prize. India Ink is the only black female and LGBTQ owned tattoo shop in Akron. They specialize in portraits, black, grey, and color realism. Hours of operation are from Tuesday – Saturday, 11am to 7pm.

India would like to thank AUL Minority Business Assistance Center for not only the award but also for the all resources, information, and general pointing in the right direction. She says that she took a chance just jumped out there has been working backwards to put the business piece together. “I don’t know where I would be without MBAC’s assistance,” she said in an interview.

India Ink Tattoo Company
21 Furnace St. Akron, OH 44308
330-475-9727
india@indiainked.com

Jasmine Golden launched Oh My Yum!, an artisan home bakery, in the fall of 2020. Combining her accounting background with baking skills passed down from her mother and grandmother, she quickly found success. Now, she is working with the Akron MBAC to secure her State certifications (MBE, EDGE, WBE) and is a participant in their “Grow Your Business with GrowthWheel” cohort to help scale her operations.

While currently operating out of her home with help from her four daughters, Golden is already planning to expand into a brick-and-mortar location. Her success is built on customer connection, intuitive baking (she rarely measures ingredients!), and a drive to utilize business resources.

Zoe Wheels LLC, named for her daughter Zoe, is a company that provides transportation to and from medical and non-medical appointments for individuals in need. While Zoe Wheels offers a much-needed service, Ms. Sims’ true passion is helping single mothers. Her passion comes from “having been there,” living in low-income housing with limited or no transportation to complete a simple task, such as grocery shopping.” I lived this sweetheart; I’m living it right now, and I’m here for you,” Ms. Sims’ stated. When asked what role the Minority Business Assistance Center played in supporting her business, Ms. Sims’s replied,” These are my stomping grounds; this is where Zoe Wheels LLC was started.” MBAC Akron is where she received help in applying for her LLC, received valuable information through the various workshops provided, and also assistance in obtaining her MBE, WBE, and EDGE Certifications. Once again, MBAC would like to wish Ms. Sims and her business, Zoe Wheels, LLC continued SUCCESS!

Ogarth Thompson, owner of Ogarth’s Kitchen in Akron, attributes his success to the work ethic and resourcefulness instilled by his father in Jamaica. Despite never attending culinary school, Thompson worked his way up from a hotel dishwasher to a chef at a luxury resort in Virginia, where he eventually met his wife.

After moving to Akron and building a local following, Thompson contacted the Akron Urban League (AUL) for help buying a food trailer. Instead, Misty Rogers at the AUL connected him with a vacant kitchen space, allowing him to open his authentic Jamaican carryout spot in 2020. Thompson has finally purchased that food trailer and plans to launch a mobile version of his kitchen this spring.

How has the Akron Urban League helped you?
“Akron Urban League was able to help me find employment when I was struggling to find it on my own.”

What did you get from the Akron Urban League?
“I received help to build a more professional resume to get better job opportunities.”

Why should someone go to the Urban League?
“I think the Akron Urban League is a great option for someone struggling to find employment and know the correct steps to take towards that goal.”

Yoreli Rodriguez, owner of the Akron-based Love Like Crazy Flooring LLC, recently achieved a major milestone by securing four State of Ohio certifications: MBE, EDGE, WBE, and VBE (Veteran-Friendly Business Enterprise). With guidance from the Akron MBAC, these certifications open new doors for government procurement and funding.

Specializing in commercial flooring across Northeast Ohio, the company prides itself on high standards. Their installers are INSTALL Certified, offering a unique third-party extended warranty, alongside OSHA and ICRA credentials. The VBE certification honors lead installer Jerry Acosta, a decorated U.S. Army veteran. To further their growth, the company was recently accepted into the Akron Urban League’s MCCAP (Minority Contractor Capital Access Program).