Southeast Raleigh Welcomes New Hub for Black Business Owners
A new commercial space has opened its doors for 14 small Black-owned businesses in southeast Raleigh, NC, providing a vibrant hub for entrepreneurship and community growth.
The project, known as Montague Plaza, was developed through a $4 million initiative led by real estate developer James Montague in partnership with Raleigh-based software company GlobalXperts. The property is located just two minutes from the apartment where Montague and his family once lived.
Montague, who grew up in poverty, shared with ABC11 his vision:
“What I would say I would do when I became an adult was to be the guy that I needed when I was that age. And that’s what I strive for now.”
The 15,000-square-foot space officially launched with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 18, 2023, welcoming the 14 local businesses alongside community members, state, and local leaders.
Montague emphasized the importance of supporting local Black entrepreneurs, rather than attracting national chains:
“I was looking for people who are from the area, born and raised, that want to give back and sow back into the area — not just take money out of the community.”
Among the new tenants is Stephanie Smith, who is launching a consignment store selling jewelry and cosmetics. She will share her 1,200-square-foot space with other entrepreneurs seeking to grow their businesses locally.
Another tenant, Tonya Binns, plans to open a consulting firm focused on educating the community about starting and running their own businesses:
“We want to be a part of that growth as well. We don’t want to stay stagnant and stay stuck. We don’t want to feel like outsiders are coming in and taking over. We want to be a part of the growth and be a part of the great City of Raleigh.”
Montague Plaza is more than a commercial property — it’s a symbol of empowerment for Black business owners, fostering innovation, leadership, and long-term economic growth in southeast Raleigh.
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