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David Steward is the richest Black man in America. Forbes has released their annual Forbes 400 list, a definitive ranking of the country’s richest people. Featured individuals had to earn at least $3.3 billion, which was an increase of $400 million from the year prior. In total, the net worths totaled $5.4 trillion, which was a $1 trillion increase from 2023. Among the listed individuals is Steward, who is tied for No. 84 with a net worth of $11.4 billion. Steward leads World Wide Technology, an IT management company, as the founder and chairman. He launched the company in 1990 and today it has become a solution provider for over 80 Fortune 100 companies, its website states. Some of its partners include Cisco, NVIDIA, Verizon and the federal government. “Our expertise in AI, cloud, networking, cybersecurity, data analytics, automation, digital transformation and more allows us to deliver groundbreaking solutions that redefine businesses, revolutionize industries, transform...
Charles Barkley isn’t putting his eggs in one basket. Barkley is currently working under TNT, widely known for his contributions as one of the co-hosts of “Inside the NBA.” His future at the network was in question after it was announced TNT would lose their rights to the NBA, as AFROTECH™ previously reported. However, all is well with Barkley who will not only remain with TNT — despite claiming to have left a minimum of $100 million to do so — but is leveling up in the media landscape with the launch of production company Round Mound Media. Variety reports the media company, in partnership with EverWonder Studios, will feature original documentaries, live telecasts, and scripted content. “Round Mound Media is about creating an outlet for my vision to share compelling, original stories meant to captivate audiences across the world,” said Barkley, according to the outlet. “I’ve always looked for projects and relationships that will allow me to be authentic, and hopefully to build my...
While in the NBA, Al Harrington had long-held dream of owning a cannabis dispensary; now he owns several. As AFROTECH™ previously reported, Harrington is the founder of Viola Brands, which exists to “increase minority participation and ownership in the cannabis industry while positively impacting and reinvesting into communities most affected by the war on drugs.” Its inception was inspired by his grandmother, who suffered from glaucoma that impaired her vision. He suggested she consume cannabis, and although she was initially reluctant, it helped her greatly after trying it. “She was complaining about her eyes hurting and I said, ‘Grandma, why don’t you give it a try.’ I said a doctor will actually recommend it,” he told News 12 New Jersey. “I said, ‘It’s legal here,’ and she said, ‘I’m in so much pain today, I’ll try anything.’ From that point on, I had a different outlook on cannabis. I realized that it was medicine. So, I started doing research and then eventually I got into the...
If you’re a burgeoning business owner or hopeful entrepreneur, chances are you’re familiar with ABC’s “Shark Tank.” Premiering in 2009, the show’s premise revolves around aspiring entrepreneurs pitching their products or business ideas to a panel of potential investors, known as “sharks.” Made up of successful business moguls including Mark Cuban and Kevin O’Leary, these seasoned vets have the power to make some big dreams come true, as contestants plead for investment funds in exchange for equity in their companies. The show has been the force behind some of the industry’s most coveted products, from the Squatty Potty to the Scrub Daddy. Some products that don’t secure a deal on the show still manage to make traction, including Melissa Butler’s inclusive cosmetic brand , The Lip Bar. But what happened to The Lip Bar after “Shark Tank?” Here’s what we know. Who Is Melissa Butler? Before her appearance on “Shark Tank,” Melissa Butler was a former Wall Street financial analyst who...
If you are familiar with popular culture, you’ve likely heard of “The Breakfast Club” with Charlamagne tha God. Weekly, Charlamagne and his co-hosts dive into topics around entertainment, businesses, mental health, and more. Known for his hot takes and exploratory commentary, Charlamagne has made it known that his dimensions are not limited to his job behind the mic. He is an accomplished entrepreneur.
One of the beauties of the human experience is the ability to be multi-dimensional. Each person has a unique set of characteristics that, on the surface, may seem to contrast but make up a tapestry of people-centeredness that allows life to be less boring and the pursuit of passions more engaging. During AFROTECH Conference 2023, attendees were brought into a real-life example through an in-depth conversation with Hip-Hop producer Timbaland. While much of his discussion with the audience was centered around the future and possibilities of artificial intelligence (AI), including its intersections with the music industry, he dropped many gems that any entrepreneur or creative could use to advance their work. After his on-stage presence, AFROTECH had the chance to sit with Timbaland and go in-depth on his views beyond the music studio and how that has impacted his career trajectory.
There are certain songs that, when you hear them, it automatically gets you hyped. From school pep rallies to cheer competitions and every other big gathering in between — “Bring Em Out” by T.I. is one of those songs. While the 2004 hit song has longevity and cross-over appeal, the song’s success is only a snapshot of the trap rapper’s career. Born Clifford Joseph Harris Jr., T.I. released his debut album “I’m Serious” in 2001. Although the work didn’t receive major commercial appeal, it didn’t stop his musical pursuits. T.I. partnered with business partner Jason Geter to launch Grand Hustle Records in 2003. From its initial launch, the rapper began putting out a series of mixtapes, leading him to release his second album, “Trap Muzik,” boasting singles such as “Rubberband Man” and “Let’s Get Away.” Harris’ success story would continue to blossom from this point, as he produced several more successful albums, appeared in movies, and tapped into his business acumen. Diversifying his...
When Snoop Dogg officially hit the scene as a solo artist in 1993 with his debut hit “Who Am I (What’s My Name),” the rapper put the world on notice that he was an emerging force and his presence in the rap game would be long-lasting. While only time could tell Snoop’s fate in the industry, a string of rap hits would prove that his name proclamation in the early 90s hit song would be his introduction as a household name. From the previously mentioned hit song from the album, “Doggystyle,” Snoop Dogg went on to create a slew of hits that include “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” “Beautiful,” and “Sensual Seduction.” And even though Snoop conquered the rap game, he diversified his music style, tapping into Gospel and Reggae music as Snoop Lion. To date, the California rapper has been involved in over 20 musical projects, including studio albums, compilations, and EPs. As reported by AfroTech, Snoop Dogg has garnered a net worth of $150 million, making him one of the wealthiest rappers from the...
In 1978, gospel legend Walter Hawkins pinned lyrics that stated, “a little rain mixed with God’s sunshine a little pain, makes me appreciate the good times.” These words position themselves perfectly to the rags to riches story related to tech billionaire David Steward. Stories like these often provide hope, invigorate motivation, and inspire change, and Steward’s is no different. Born in Chicago, IL, Steward came from humble beginnings with seven other siblings. Although he was born in the Windy City, his family moved to his mother’s hometown of Clinton, MO, where he was raised. There, they lived in a small home that did not include indoor plumbing or heating. The family had a small farm with cows, vegetables, and crops. Tending to the land was a part of the Steward family’s daily responsibilities. “My jobs included emptying the chamber pots, shaking down the ash in the potbelly stove and then spreading it on the driveway for traction, cleaning the barn, feeding the cows and pigs,...
In 1900, James Weldon Johnson penned the poem, “Lift Every Voice And Sing.” Later, his brother J. Rosamond Johnson would put music to that poem, which would be one day known as the Black National Anthem. Written initially to commemorate the birthday of President Abraham Lincoln, the anthem is now a song of pride for Black people and speaks to the audacity of hope and a future far beyond many people’s wildest dreams. For years, Black men and women have latched on to that audacity, and through innovation and an entrepreneurial spirit, they created a life and a future they could be proud of. As the United States celebrates Black Business Month in August, it is a time to reflect on the glorious past and strategize for a more promising future. LinkedIn is a partner in that strategic effort and collaborated with YouGov to gather data about the state of Black businesses that can help shed light on the great strides the community has made and the opportunities to advance. During its...
Meet Mikaila Ulmer, the owner of the lucrative lemonade business that everyone seems to be talking about. In 2016, the Texas native created her own brand of lemonade, Me & The Bees Classic Lemonade, based on an idea that came about after her great-grandmother gifted her an old cookbook. Despite the fact that the book was falling apart, what ended up falling together for Mikaila changed the course of her family’s lives forever. According to The New York Post, the young lady found a recipe from the 1940s for making lemonade with flaxseed as one of the main ingredients. Like many youths, she started with a lemonade stand right outside of her house and the rest was history. Per reports from Ulmer’s team, her company received a Local Producer Loan from Whole Foods Market in the amount of $10,000 back in 2015. Since then, she has used the funds to scale and grow her business, which recently hit the 7-figure sales mark.
When Wally Amos founded Famous Amos Cookies in 1975, he was navigating one of the most challenging times of his life. Newly divorced and struggling with the tides of pursuing Hollywood success, he went on to find major success in sweet treats. However, his success was not a solo effort. With early backing from celebrities like Marvin Gaye, Amos was able to sell approximately $300,000 worth of cookies in his inaugural year. The cookie brand is now paying it forward with the second round of entrepreneurial grants. In a May 19 press release, Famous Amos announced a partnership with the National Black Chamber of Commerce to launch the second cycle of the Famous Amos Ingredients for Success Entrepreneurs Initiative . The entrepreneurial program is designed to offer grants and mentorship as essential tools and resources to assist Black business owners. Participants will engage in a pitch contest that provides a high-level overview of their business, why it will become a successful...
Pharrell Williams continues to pour into Black entrepreneurs and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Founded by the global superstar, Black Ambition is returning for its second year to foster Black and Latinx leaders and communities. Entrepreneurs with ventures in products and services, media and entertainment, healthcare, technology, and Web 3.0 are encouraged to apply for a chance to win up to a million dollars. In addition to funding, students will be provided mentorship, resources, and “founder-friendly investment terms.” “When you realize how lucky you are to be in the constellation of the universe and when you learn how it really works, you stop buying vehicles and you create vehicles to drive you. That’s what Black Ambition is, it’s a vehicle for impact. At Black Ambition, we find you and then we fund you,” Williams said, according to a press release. In 2021, Black Ambition supported over 250 entrepreneurs and awarded over $3.2 million to support their...
The coming of age story can lead to a beautiful destination. Datreese Thomas dived into a journey of self-discovery after experiencing growing pains during her freshman year at the University of Houston. Datreese Thomas’ season of becoming led to her first business venture, The Melanie Dolls. The student turned entrepreneur wanted to empower Black girls in their journey of becoming. “I wanted to help Black girls feel beautiful, gain courage, and just develop self-love. I do that by providing a product that helps young Black girls individually see themselves better. I truly believe the company I created is a clear reflection of the journey that I had to go through with myself,” Datreese Thomas told AfroTech. Thank you so much @its_Datreese ! Representation is everything!!! She loves it!!! @themelaniedolls pic.twitter.com/Zz0BccMuQw — Da’Yon Dunlap (@DayonDunlap) January 10, 2022
Everybody eats when the family is at the forefront! When describing himself, Nic King — the founder of the first Black-owned cereal company — says “family-oriented” is what comes to mind, which sounds about right for the man who has a vision of building a legacy for his family. “This is why I call my company Legacy Cereal company,” he explained. “I’ve always set the expectation that this is forging a path to set my family up to have a better future. [That] has been my goal forever.” As previously reported by AfroTech, King’s cereal brand, Proud Puffs was launched as a reminder that representation matters in every industry. Now, just over a year later, King is on a mission to continue to build brands within his company that impacts the culture. He joined AfroTech to shed light on the importance of building a legacy, his own personal journey to entrepreneurship, and creating cereal that is for the culture.