Black History Month is a time to celebrate the legacy, resilience and achievements of Black Americans throughout history and today. In recognition of this important month, the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to spotlight several minority-owned member businesses that are helping shape our local economy and strengthen our community. From longtime community staples to emerging entrepreneurs, these businesses reflect the innovation, leadership and diversity that make Chattanooga thrive.
Shey Natural Health Bar
Shey Natural Health Bar was founded in 2020 by Shey Jordan during the height of the pandemic. Shey took advantage during this time of uncertainty, and she transformed it into a mission of healing, wellness and community care. What began as homemade juices and wellness blends created for her own family grew into a purpose-driven brand rooted in fresh, natural ingredients, cultural influence and whole-body wellness.
As a mom, athlete and entrepreneur, Shey recognized the need for functional nutrition made with intention. Her products reflect a belief that food can be both healing and empowering. Today, Shey Natural Health Bar offers smoothies, juices and body butters designed especially for women, mothers and young athletes, supporting wellness from the inside out. Being a Latina and Black-owned business in Chattanooga represents more than entrepreneurship for Shey, it stands for representation, resilience and responsibility. “Wellness, athletic performance and holistic health absolutely belong to our community,” Shey says.
She is proud to contribute to the city’s growing Black business community while creating space for future generations. Her work helps show that wellness, athletic performance and holistic health are essential and accessible within the community. Shey’s vision goes beyond her products. She hopes the business becomes a trusted wellness resource, making health feel culturally relevant, sustainable and achievable. Through education, inspiration and supportive spaces, Shey Natural Health Bar is committed to helping people care for both their bodies and minds.
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Mo Lemonade
Mo Lemonade was born because Lakissia wanted to help put her son through school. Lakissia’s mission was all worth it when her son went on to graduate from the Alabama School of Fine Arts and later The Juilliard School, a milestone that continues to inspire the heart behind the brand. Mo Lemonade originally gained local attention as a mobile vendor traveling around Chattanooga in a signature Hummer, selling flavored lemonades with over 60 unique homemade flavors along with smoothies and acai bowls. The business became known for its bold flavors, quality ingredients and fun, approachable energy.
Today, Mo Lemonade Café is expanding that legacy. The business has evolved from a mobile lemonade brand into a growing café concept. Their grand opening was held last July at the Kitchen Incubator of Chattanooga, and the community showed up in full support, along with their loyal fans. The launch event featured collaborations with local food partners, reflecting the café’s commitment to community-centered entrepreneurship.
As a Black-owned business in Chattanooga, Mo Lemonade Café represents visibility, representation and the importance of showing up in spaces where Black entrepreneurs are often underrepresented. “For Lakissia, ownership is about shifting narratives, inspiring young Black business owners and honoring cultural roots through food and drink,” she said. Mo Lemonade Café hopes to impact the community by creating a welcoming space that supports local events, brings people together and demonstrates what’s possible when a small Black-owned business is built on love, consistency and service. The goal is to circulate dollars locally, inspire others to step out on faith and offer quality products people feel proud to support.
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Tiny Tigers Learning Center
Tiny Tigers Learning Center grew from a simple but urgent need LaShon Carter saw in her own community: families needed childcare that truly worked for them. Many parents start their workdays as early as 5 a.m. or finish late into the evening, yet few centers offer schedules that match those realities. A wife, mother and Chattanooga State graduate with a degree in human services, Carter worked her way up in the childcare field and soon realized she wanted to create something of her own. After sitting down with her husband and children to map out a family vision, they opened Tiny Tigers Family Daycare in their home. In 2017, that dream expanded into Tiny Tigers Learning Center, which has since been nominated five years in a row for Best Daycare in Chattanooga. Carter now serves on several education boards supporting early childhood development.
“I saw a real need in our community for quality childcare, educational resources and support for teachers and families,” Carter said. “Families needed a safe place where their children could be cared for and still be in a strong learning environment.” For Carter, being a Black-owned business in Chattanooga is about leadership, representation and possibility. “It means showing children and families that ownership, education and success are possible,” she said. “As a Black woman business owner, I take pride in being an example for children, so they can see that leading others and making an impact is possible for them too.” During the pandemic, Carter also launched The EDU Station, a small venture offering affordable, reusable learning materials for teachers and childcare providers, continuing her commitment to accessible education. Carter hopes Tiny Tigers continues to strengthen Chattanooga by creating safe learning spaces for children, offering support for parents and providing resources for educators. She also aims to grow the local childcare workforce by offering hands-on training and encouraging staff to pursue higher education. Her work is grounded in faith, guided by her favorite scripture, Luke 1:37: “With God all things are possible.” Tiny Tigers Learning Center was previously featured by the Chattanooga Chamber, highlighting its continued growth and impact in the community.
