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Boston, MA — In our March 2023 Investor Report, the Boston Ujima Project proudly announced the launch of its Hyperlocal Procurement Initiative, a program designed to strengthen the Ujima Good Business Alliance (UGBA) by directly supporting member businesses through strategic purchasing, consumer organizing, and targeted marketing efforts. The Hyperlocal Procurement Initiative is designed to align with the investments made through the Ujima Fund, creating a comprehensive support structure for UGBA businesses.
Through this initiative, Ujima will engage in the direct procurement of goods and services from businesses as they join the UGBA. This approach not only complements Ujima's existing investment strategies but also bridges the gap between capital deployment and the additional resources offered, such as Consumer Organizing, Marketing Support, and Consumer Campaigns. The goal is to amplify the impact of Ujima's investments by driving demand for products and services from UGBA members, while actively mobilizing community members to engage with and support them.
Building on Past Partnerships
Ujima’s commitment to supporting local businesses through procurement began with a holiday box program in collaboration with CommonWealth Kitchen in 2021. This program expanded in December 2022 and 2023 through a partnership with Comfort Kitchen, further cultivating relationships within the community.
Additionally, from 2023 to early 2024, Ujima partnered with Black Market Nubian to establish a programming hub in Boston’s Roxbury neighborhood, evolving from the Hyperlocal Procurement Initiative. This collaboration highlights Ujima’s dedication to sourcing goods and services directly from UGBA members to promote local entrepreneurship.
The Hyperlocal Procurement Initiative also includes a partnership with the Live Like a Local Tour’s signature Martha’s Vineyard Black Business Tour, held in May and September 2023, as well as in September 2024. These tours emphasize Ujima's ongoing efforts to support Black-owned businesses and strengthen economic ties between the island's enterprises and the Greater Boston area.
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