# @metaelevate on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/CfZrveSuaMU
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/17226602-metaelevate-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/thumbnails/5a3d5ae080.jpg
- **Posted:** 2022-06-29T19:41:55.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Meta Elevate (@metaelevate) — https://gondola.cc/metaelevate

## Caption

Elevate family — stop scrolling and meet Dr. Lakeysha "Key" Hallmon, a strong Black voice with boots on the ground in service to the community. ✊🏾

When drkeyhallmon moved to Atlanta, she saw what could be a Black mecca but also saw inconsistencies in how Black-owned businesses were supported and showcased in the city. From identifying that gap, The Village Market was born.

"The Village Market [is] a community-driven economic vehicle that connects Black-owned businesses to engaged consumers, resources and dedicated community partners," explains Dr. Hallmon. "I wanted to create a space that elevated the excellence of Black businesses and provided opportunities for them to receive training, resource sharing, and mentorship from a community of like-minded entrepreneurs." Her plan is working. Since 2016, The Village Market has facilitated over "$7.3 million for more than 1,440 Black-owned small businesses" across the US and the Bahamas. "Through seasonal marketplaces, retail, campaigns and partnerships, we ensure Black business owners are positioned for unmatched access and economic equality."

Dr. Hallmon believes the best thing we can do to elevate Black businesses is to support them consistently so they can gain visibility and grow. "When small businesses are thriving, so do the communities around them. When Black-owned businesses are insulated with support and can scale, that impact filters into jobs and dollars circulating in Black communities." 

Follow to learn more about how community, collaboration and circulation intersect at thevillagemarketatl. 

#blackvoices #blackleadership #OnTheRiseTogether

## Stats

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- **Likes:** 78
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## Tags

blackleadership, ontherisetogether, blackvoices

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