In the heart of Oklahoma, a movement began that would reshape the landscape of community engagement and economic development. The Bigger Than Food Foundation, born from a vision to amplify the presence and impact of Black-owned businesses in the Oklahoma City Metro Area, has become a beacon of cultural enterprise and community revitalization.

The journey started in January 2016 when Apollo Woods returned to Oklahoma and observed the significant growth of the OKC Metro Area since 1999. Despite the area's expansion, there was a noticeable absence of Black-owned businesses in this rapidly evolving cityscape. This observation sparked the creation of OKC Black Eats, L.L.C. in August 2017, with a mission to increase the visibility of Black-owned restaurants and culinary artists in OKC and stimulate the local economy through strategic campaigns and partnerships.

The success and learning from these initiatives, coupled with Apollo's experience on local non-profit boards, led to the establishment of the Bigger Than Food Foundation in October 2018. This non-profit organization, armed with the mantra “Our Mission Is Bigger Than Food,” set out to elevate the role of culture and cuisine as a means for human connection and understanding. The Foundation received its 501c3 status from the Internal Revenue Service after five years of dedicated effort and capacity building.

Who We Are

The Bigger Food Foundation is an action tank that incubates innovative strategies for community growth. We are research-informed and action-driven, aiming to accelerate people-centered community building and advocate for sustainable resource management.

Our commitment to advocating for historically divested communities involves educating funders, the media, and nonprofit stakeholders to increase investment for healthy community ecosystems.

The Foundation's work has not only enhanced the quality of life for individuals and families in local communities but also attracted investments, encouraged commercial and business development, and fostered a sense of destination and creative placemaking.

Since its inception, the Bigger Than Food Foundation has been a catalyst for change in Oklahoma City, driving over $1.6 million in direct spending towards local businesses and initiatives. Our programs, such as the ULI Impact Award winning Developers Conference, Boss Up Business Oklahoma, Foodie Fest, and OKC Black Restaurant Bingo, have not only bolstered the local economy but also enriched the community's cultural fabric. Through fostering economic development and cultural enterprise, we've revitalized neighborhoods, supported entrepreneurs, and brought people together, making a tangible difference in the lives of many. Our work has laid the groundwork for a more inclusive, vibrant, and prosperous community, showcasing the power of unity and shared vision in creating lasting impact.

Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility:

At the Bigger Than Food Foundation, we recognize the interconnectedness of food security, environmental sustainability, and community well-being. We integrate sustainable practices into our programs and operations, promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices and reducing food waste. By fostering sustainability, we aim to improve the lives of individuals, families, and the globe.

Collaboration and Partnerships:

We believe that addressing complex issues requires collective action. We actively forge strong partnerships with local organizations, government agencies, businesses, and community leaders who share our vision. Together, we leverage our collective strengths, share resources, and amplify our impact.

Transparency and Accountability:

Transparency and accountability are fundamental principles that guide our work. We are committed to being transparent in how we use resources, make decisions, and report on progress. We regularly share financial reports, program outcomes, and impact assessments with donors, partners, and the community.

Education and Advocacy:

Education and advocacy are key to addressing root causes. We engage in public awareness campaigns, advocacy efforts, and educational initiatives to raise awareness about food apartheid and wealth disparities. Empowering individuals with knowledge and advocating for policy changes are vital steps in creating an equitable and informed society.

Innovation and Adaptation:

We foster a culture of innovation and adaptability within the foundation. We continually seek new solutions to emerging challenges and opportunities in food security and community development. By embracing innovation, we remain relevant and responsive to evolving community needs.

Community Engagement and Inclusion:

We value the input and involvement of community members. We actively engage with residents, especially those affected by food apartheid and wealth disparities, to ensure their voices are heard and their needs are addressed. Inclusivity is central to our decision-making processes, and we create spaces for community participation and leadership.

Moving Forward, Together

We have heard the voices of our donors, partners, and community members yearning for change. We believe that our commitment to bridging the gap between resources and people can ignite a transformative ripple effect, collectively strengthen and enrich Oklahoma. Closing the economic gap is a monumental task, and we invite you to join us on this journey toward creating a just, equitable, and thriving community—a community where everyone prospers, thrives, and heals, benefiting themselves, their families, neighborhoods, and our entire community.

Apollo Woods' advocacy for Black-owned businesses has garnered national attention, with appearances on major media platforms and a meeting with staff from the office of the 46th President of the United States, Joseph Biden. Since 2018, initiatives like the NEOKC Developers Conference, Sunday Social Brunch, and Black Restaurant Bingo have generated over $1.6 million in direct spending for Black-Owned businesses in Oklahoma, marking a significant impact on the local economy and community development.

The Bigger Than Food Foundation continues to be a pivotal force in shaping a vibrant, inclusive community, where culture and enterprise intersect to create lasting, positive change.

Bigger Than Food Foundation

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