Mortar is one of 18 organizations nationwide to receive funding from Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand's inaugural Black Community Commitment Grant Program.
The Jordan Brand grants program provides micro-funding awards to grassroots nonprofit organizations with a total operating budget under $3 million, a proven track record of success and demonstrated paths to sustainable change. A total of $1 million was distributed to 18 organizations with missions rooted in social justice, economic empowerment and education and awareness.
"Michael Jordan's story is one that connects directly to the Mortar mission," Allen Woods, the nonprofit's executive director, said in an emailed statement. "Before he became the globally recognized phenom, he was an underestimated kid with a dream of greatness. Many of the 300-plus entrepreneurs who have graduated from our Entrepreneurship Academy share the same humble beginnings that MJ had, and as an organization, we do too. To now have our brand be affiliated with the Jordan Brand is a privilege and an honor."
Mortar is one of Cincinnati’s most visible startup groups, serving as an accelerator and resource for diverse founders. It has graduated 300 entrepreneurs and businesses since its founding in 2014, including Esoteric Brewing, Black Owned Outerwear, Sweets & Meats BBQ and Jazzy Sweeties, and its entrepreneurs have created 155 local jobs. Mortar maintains physical offices in Over-the-Rhine, Uptown and Walnut Hills, with a new headquarters in Pendleton.
The organization will celebrate its anniversary Oct. 23 with an event featuring music, food, drinks and games.
"We're seven years in, but just getting started, the sky is the limit," Woods said.
