BY PAUL JUNOR
This year marks the seventh anniversary of the Afro-Caribbean Business Network (ACBN), a transformative initiative launched in 2017 by Jodi-Ann Campbell, Chris-Beth Cowie, Derrick Fagan, Darleen Green, Ryan Knight, Ray Millan, and Keisha Wallace. From its inception, ACBN has worked tirelessly to close the economic gap for Black entrepreneurs, providing a platform for networking, resources, and support in the business community.
To celebrate this milestone, ACBN hosted a special event on Sunday, November 17th, combining both a fundraiser and a showcase with a focus on the critical theme of “ownership.” The event, titled “Ownership Matters with ACBN: Just Like Family”, was held in partnership with Goparity, an impact investment platform dedicated to putting people ahead of profits. This collaboration marks a historic step for ACBN and Goparity, blending their shared commitment to community empowerment and economic equity.
The event featured a dynamic panel discussion with prominent figures including ACBN member Ryan Knight and Carly and Emily Mercy, co-founders of Goparity Canada. The spotlight was on the ongoing fundraising efforts to acquire the Just Like Family franchise, a key project that will allow ACBN to provide essential home care services for seniors in the community. This acquisition is pivotal for generating sustainable revenue, which will support ACBN’s vital programs aimed at uplifting African-Caribbean entrepreneurs and fostering long-term economic success.
The partnership between ACBN and Goparity underscores their mutual dedication to social impact and community-driven change. As a certified social enterprise, Goparity reinvests the majority of its profits into its mission of providing care, education, community connection, and advocacy. By supporting initiatives like the Just Like Family franchise acquisition, Goparity is helping to enhance the quality of life for underserved communities while also creating economic opportunities for Black entrepreneurs.
This anniversary celebration was more than just a reflection on ACBN’s achievements—it was a call to action for continued growth, collaboration, and empowerment in the fight for economic equity.
There are several tailored home care services that are provided including:
- Personalized care
- Companionship and outings
- Overnight and respite care
- Disability support services
There are many benefits that will accumulate for ACBN from the acquisition of the franchise, “Just Like Family:”
- Support for aging populations:
The franchise will double its client base, directly benefiting 20-25 seniors with personalized home care services
- Job creation:
The project will create 18-20 caregiving jobs as the client base grows, supporting local employment in Midtown East Toronto
- Increased revenue for ACBN:
Profits generated from the franchise will provide ACBN with a steady income stream, enhancing financial stability and reducing reliance on grants for the core funding.
Some of the indirect impacts include:
- Building a network of care:
The franchise will foster relationships with local healthcare providers and community organizations creating a supportive network for senior care
- Encouraging community resilience:
The project will enhance community resilience by supporting both the aging population and their families fostering a culture of support.
- Economic empowerment for Black entrepreneurs:
The project will demonstrate franchising as a viable business models, empowering Black entrepreneurs to achieve financial independence
There are three Sustainable Development Goals (SDS) including:
- Good health and well-being
- Decent work and economic growth
- Reduced inequalities
An email from ACBN on Wednesday, November 20th, noted that they are $6,780 away from their $40,000 goal. They reiterate four benefits of franchising:
- Accelerating business growth with less capital
- Expanding your brand while leveraging local expertise
- Creating passive income opportunities
- Learning from proven system to streamline operations
The email lists five benefits to those who participate in this franchising opportunity.
- Provides essential services to aging communities
- Generates consistent reserve to support ACBN’s programs
- Reduces reliance on cyclical grant funding
- Enables continued support for over 6,000 Black entrepreneurs
- Earn an 6 % monthly return
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