Introducing Ujima's Restaurant Coalition

2 hours ago

1 min read

Restaurants are often viewed as risky investments because of thin margins, but they are important to our communities. They are not only businesses, but gathering spaces, employers, and cultural anchors.

The Boston Ujima Project is excited to launch the Ujima Restaurant Coalition, a group of small and independent food and beverage businesses in Massachusetts that support one another. Led by Ujima’s Restaurant Fellow, Biplaw Rai, and Policy and Investment Fellow, Athul Krishnadas, the coalition builds relationships, shares resources and knowledge, and advocates for policies that enable a prosperous, inclusive and sustainable industry.

The Coalition has met twice, virtually and at Comfort Kitchen, to get to know each other and discuss common issues and challenges facing restaurant businesses. Together, members explored potential solutions, and ways to support one another.

Looking Ahead:

As the coalition continues to grow, we hope to develop a policy proposal for members to decide on, share resources, and create a stronger network for independent food and beverage businesses in Massachusetts.

The coalition aims to deepen our understanding of the restaurant industry, expand technical assistance, identify capital pathways for restaurant businesses that have historically been underserved, and explore funding opportunities, including a collaborative restaurant fund.

We’re grateful for the honesty and care members have brought to these conversations, and look forward to continuing this work together.

We welcome any questions, ideas, or feedback. If you're interested in joining the coalition, email athul@ujimaboston.com to learn more!