African Americans in the North Carolina Sandhills region have a long and proud tradition of economic self-sufficiency. From farming and trade to skilled crafts and small businesses, generations sustained themselves and their communities through hard work, resilience, and entrepreneurship. At SFHA, we believe that preserving our heritage also means reigniting that entrepreneurial spirit.

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We find inspiration in communities like Manchester, a historically African-American community in Cumberland County, where nearly every parcel of land once supported a small business—a barbershop, beauty salon, mechanic, seamstress, midwife, grocery store, nightclub, and more. It was a community built on local skills, relationships, and resourcefulness. Over time, however, that self-sufficient tradition has been deeply challenged.

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Reviving Local Enterprise

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SFHA is working to rebuild and support local economic strength by investing in programs that encourage community-based entrepreneurship, cultural enterprise, and intergenerational learning.

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We support economic self-sufficiency through:

• Vendor opportunities at the Sandhills Farmers & Heritage Market

• Cultural tourism that celebrates and preserves African-American heritage

• Workshops and trainings on small business ownership, legacy property, and financial literacy

• Encouraging individuals to use traditional skills—like farming, crafts, and food production—as the basis for microenterprise

 

​Growing Young Entrepreneurs

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We’re especially proud to support and mentor the next generation of community-minded business owners.

• J3 Kidz, a youth-led slushy and popcorn business, launched at our Farmers & Heritage Market, showing what’s possible when creativity and opportunity meet.

• Another standout is a young entrepreneur who brings his 3D-printed creations to the market, offering custom items, accessories, and gadgets, showing how technology and creativity can thrive in a community-centered space.

• Youth involved in SFHA programs also explore business ideas through heritage-inspired products, storytelling, art, and event support.

• As part of our commitment to intergenerational learning, we pair youth with elders and mentors who share practical skills, wisdom, and support.

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By creating space for youth to learn, lead, and launch, we are building a bridge from the legacy of the past to the promise of the future.