On December 5, 2024, over 70 attendees gathered at the new Comp Sci High in the South Bronx for the second Bronx Brilliance event. This evening celebrated innovation, connection, and the introduction of the Community Enterprise Accelerator’s (CEA) Cohort 2 Fellows. The event also announced key partnerships with M&T Bank, NYPACE, and Comp Sci High, adding new dimensions to the program by connecting entrepreneurs, expert volunteers, and students in impactful ways.
The highlight of the evening was the introduction of five exceptional Cohort 2 Fellows. Each Fellow was introduced by a selection committee member and shared their story and vision for their business with the audience, underscoring the collaboration and community spirit that define the CEA program.
- Howard Lindsay, Pat’s Exotic Beverages (introduced by Dominic Maloney)
- Ibrahima Badji, Good Vibes (introduced by Millie Carbajal)
- Anthony Epps, Eppsolutely Clean Maintenance (introduced by Rhonda James)
- Yasiris Ortiz, Spin & Learn (introduced by Ayanna Williams)
- Kevin Shabazz, Greene Developers (introduced by Kyana Beckles)
The CEA fellowship provides each participant with $15,000 in grant funding, one-on-one mentorship from industry experts, and access to a vibrant entrepreneurial network. Fellows also deepen their connection to the Bronx by leveraging the extensive resources available within the local ecosystem, empowering them to grow their businesses and make a meaningful impact in their communities.
A Thriving Ecosystem in Action
Bronx Brilliance showcased the strength of The Bronx entrepreneurial ecosystem. New partners coming on board for Cohort 2:
M&T Bank played a pivotal role in the program as both an event sponsor and a key partner. Their involvement extends beyond sponsorship, with plans to provide tailored financial education sessions to Fellows and assign dedicated banking advisors to support each Fellow throughout the six-month program. By leveraging their expertise and resources, M&T Bank is empowering entrepreneurs to build stronger, more sustainable businesses.
NYPACE is a brand-new partner for the program and will play a critical role in engaging Cohort 2. By connecting Fellows with experienced advisors, NYPACE will provide strategic guidance tailored to each business’s unique challenges. This partnership will offer Fellows high-level expertise and mentorship to support their growth and maximize their impact within the Bronx entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Comp Sci High serves as more than just a venue host; it embodies the program’s mission to inspire and support the next generation of entrepreneurs. The school, which opened its brand-new campus this fall, is committed to providing students with rigorous academic preparation combined with practical career readiness. In addition to engaging their students as event volunteers, Comp Sci High is providing a group of student interns who will support the program throughout its duration. These interns will gain hands-on experience while contributing to the success of the CEA, furthering their connection to the local entrepreneurial ecosystem and enhancing their professional skills.
We extend our gratitude to the NYC Mayor’s Office of Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) for their invaluable support. Deputy Director Migdalia Taveras delivered insightful remarks during the event, emphasizing the city’s commitment to empowering minority and women entrepreneurs. The Mayor’s Office of MWBE will play a pivotal role in assisting our Fellows by connecting them to essential city resources and facilitating access to contracting opportunities, thereby enhancing their capacity to successfully engage in business with the city.
Honoring Our Finalists
This year’s event welcomed seven impressive finalists into the community, recognizing their achievements and celebrating their innovative business ideas, which showcase the diversity and creativity of the Bronx entrepreneurial ecosystem:
- Flor Paulino, ATAX Willis Ave | Tax preparation and business services
- Gary Chimelis, Bronx Loyal Mobile Barber | Mobile grooming services
- Tiffany Gomez, Gomez Design Studio | Custom furniture manufacturing
- Jannelle Cortes, GrooveTrips | Accessible, inclusive travel experiences
- Bernardo Flores, Quality Wet Paint | Specialty painting and renovation
- Olasoji Oluwatukesi, Jiloak Links | Financial management and consulting
- Brandy Cochrane, Plant Candy | Plant-based wellness education
Celebrating Cohort 1 Alumni
The evening celebrated the achievements of Cohort 1 Fellows, welcoming them as the first alumni of the CEA program. These Fellows included Olga Perez of MVP Lifeguards, Dominic Maloney of Sol Cacao, Alanna Ramirez of Loc’d and Lit, and Milagros Carbajal of M & M 24HR Daycare. Their participation as alumni highlights the growing impact and lasting connections fostered through the program.
Thank You to Our Event Partners
This unforgettable night was made possible thanks to the incredible contributions of our partners and supporters. A special thanks to Ayanna Williams of Elevate Digital for her tireless work behind the scenes to make this event a success. We also deeply appreciate our vendors—Bascom Catering, Pat’s Exotic Beverages, Cupcake Me, Sol Cacao, and Brianna Rohlehr Visuals—for adding so much value to the evening with their offerings. Additionally, we thank Level Up Ventures and M&T Bank for their generous support and commitment to empowering entrepreneurs. Together, we are building a brighter future for Bronx entrepreneurship.
Looking Ahead
Stay tuned for updates on the journey of our Cohort 2 Fellows and announcements about the next Bronx Brilliance event. We are grateful to everyone who joined us in celebrating the resilience, creativity, and community spirit that define The Bronx entrepreneurial ecosystem.
About the CEA
The Community Enterprise Accelerator (CEA) is a transformative initiative, co-founded and funded by Level Up Ventures, a Hearst subsidiary, in partnership with Elevate Digital. Initially launched as a program, CEA is now evolving into a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting under-recognized entrepreneurs in the Bronx. Through grant capital, expert mentorship, and strategic resources, CEA empowers high-potential, community-focused businesses and strengthens the local economy.
