Travis Clark, Founder – Prosperity Through Black Enterprise

Prosperity Through Black Enterprise was created to recognize, support, and elevate Black-owned businesses that serve as pillars of strength, resilience, and economic stability within our communities. This nonprofit is rooted in the belief that entrepreneurship is one of the most powerful tools for empowerment, self-determination, and long-term community growth.

Our mission is inspired by individuals like Diane Stowers, the State of Wisconsin’s sole surviving African American gas station owner. On May 11, 2018, it was my honor to recognize Ms. Stowers for her decades of perseverance, leadership, and service in one of Milwaukee’s most challenging neighborhoods. Her commitment to operating a Black-owned business under difficult conditions represents the courage and determination that Prosperity Through Black Enterprise exists to uplift.

Entrepreneurs like Ms. Stowers do more than operate businesses—they create jobs, stabilize neighborhoods, and serve as role models for future generations. Too often, these individuals go unrecognized despite the vital role they play in strengthening local economies. Through this organization, we aim to change that by shining a light on their contributions and creating pathways for growth, collaboration, and sustainability.

With the support of community leaders, professional athletes, and business advocates—including Green Bay Packers wide receiver Geronimo Allison and former Packer Marwin Evans—we proudly celebrated Ms. Stowers’ achievements through the Prosperity Through Black Enterprise Award. Moments like these demonstrate the power of unity, recognition, and shared responsibility in advancing economic opportunity.

Prosperity Through Black Enterprise is committed to building a future where Black-owned businesses are not only supported but celebrated; where success is visible, attainable, and sustained; and where economic empowerment leads to stronger families and communities. Our work is about honoring legacy, encouraging ownership, and ensuring that prosperity is passed forward.

Together, we can create opportunity, strengthen enterprise, and build lasting economic impact—one business at a time.

Prosperity Through Black Enterprise Award

The Prosperity Through Black Enterprise Award Honors Black entrepreneurs and business owners whose leadership, resilience, and commitment to service have created lasting economic impact within their communities. This award recognizes individuals who demonstrate perseverance in the face of adversity while contributing to job creation, neighborhood stability, and economic empowerment.

Recipients of this award exemplify excellence in entrepreneurship, integrity in business practices, and a dedication to uplifting underserved communities through ownership and enterprise. Special consideration is given to business owners who operate in challenging environments, sustain long-term operations, and serve as role models for future generations.

The award celebrates not only financial success but also the broader influence of Black-owned businesses as engines of opportunity, cultural pride, and community development. Honorees represent the spirit of self-determination and economic progress that Prosperity Through Black Enterprise was founded to promote.