SHOPPE BLACK

City Girls Golf is Honoring Legacy and Swinging for Change

2 mins read
city girls golf

City Girls Golf is an organization founded with the mission of empowering women of color through the game of golf.

Founded by Sierra Morris, this organization specifically focuses on creating a space for women in urban areas to learn and enjoy golf, a sport traditionally seen as exclusive and expensive.

Morris’s inspiration stemmed not just from her own experience growing up in New York City where golf courses were scarce, but also from the rich legacy of the Wake-Robin Golf Club (WRGC).

Established in 1937, WRGC is the oldest registered African American women’s golf club in the United States.

These pioneering women paved the way for countless women of color to tee off and excel on the green. City Girls Golf proudly carries the torch, ensuring the legacy of Black women in golf thrives.

city girls golf
A group of women golfers celebrating the 10th anniversary of the clubs foundation at the Wake-Robin golf club, Washington DC, June 6, 1947. (Photo by Afro American Newspapers/Gado/Getty Images)

One of the biggest hurdles for newcomers, particularly women of color, is feeling out of place on the golf course. City Girls Golf tackles this by creating a sense of community. It’s about camaraderie, shared experiences, celebrating every accomplishment – from sinking a putt to finally figuring out your grip – and having a blast while doing it!

So, if you’ve ever been curious about golf but felt it wasn’t for you, City Girls Golf is here to rewrite the rules. It’s a chance to experience the thrill of the game, and meet like-minded women.

Pick up a club and join the City Girls Golf movement – they’re redefining what it means to be a golfer, one swing at a time.

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Revitalizing Urban Landscapes: The Asland Capital Partners Approach

4 mins read

Established in 2019 by James H. Simmons III, Asland Capital Partners is a New York City-based real estate investment firm focused on urban renewal and workforce housing.

Over the past ten years, Asland has committed more than $700 million in equity to projects that involve adaptive reuse, workforce housing, and affordable multifamily residences.

In this interview, James offers his insights on current market trends, investment strategies, and valuable advice for aspiring real estate professionals.

Asland Capital Partners
Asland Capital Partners founder and CEO, Jim Simmons

What inspired the formation of Asland Capital Partners?

Asland was formed after I spent 17 years at Apollo Global and Ares Management, managing a series of institutional real estate private equity funds and separate accounts.

As both firms grew and matured, they were no longer the small firms that resembled start-up alternative investment companies. Asland was formed to replicate the success of those accomplished investment managers. 

It was also created to establish a firm that reflects an entrepreneurial and nimble vision and values, with the aim of benefiting the team that embarked with me on this journey to launch the enterprise five years ago.

It’s our goal to make Asland the preeminent fiduciary of our client’s capital and to provide our residents with a world-class living experience.       

What key market insights and trends are you observing, particularly in the affordable housing sector, and how do you anticipate these trends shaping future investment strategies?

There has been a longstanding supply and demand imbalance within the affordable housing sector.  Nearly every large city and small town alike is struggling to provide adequate housing opportunities for its teachers, police, nurses, and service workers. 

To help solve the problem, municipalities have emphasized implementing programs and policies to retain and create affordable housing alternatives including middle-income/workforce housing through very low-income housing for the most vulnerable. 

Despite the concerted effort of elected officials and housing agencies, the cost of construction materials, labor, and the lack of availability of developable land limit the production of additional housing units.

Furthermore, the long lead time and predevelopment expense of building any real estate development in high-cost domiciles further complicates the situation.

What advice would you give to aspiring professionals looking to make a positive impact in the real estate industry?

Be the best that you can be at whatever you endeavor to do. Opportunity finds those who match talent with dedication, desire, and determination. Real estate is one asset class that touches all of our lives daily including where we live, work, and play. 

It is also a career that can be rewarding in many ways including providing much needed shelter and affordable housing, positively changing neighborhoods for the better, and giving professionals a path to wealth creation for themselves and the communities that they invest in.

by Tony O. Lawson

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Crowns and Commerce: A Look at “Female Monarchs and Merchant Queens in Africa”

3 mins read
Female Monarchs and Merchant Queens in Africa

For centuries, the narrative of African leadership has been dominated by male figures. But the book, “Female Monarchs and Merchant Queens in Africa“ by Nwando Achebe, shatters this limited view.

This groundbreaking work sheds light on the rich history of women’s power and influence across the continent.

Imagine a continent where women weren’t just wives and mothers, but rulers, wielding political clout and economic power. “Female Monarchs and Merchant Queens in Africa” brings these remarkable women to life. It delves into the lives of queens who governed their nations, wielding influence not just within their palaces, but across vast territories. We encounter merchant queens who controlled trade routes and amassed vast wealth, their business acumen shaping the economies of their societies.

The book’s brilliance lies in its focus on African sources and perspectives. Achebe challenges the notion that female leadership in Africa is a recent phenomenon. She reveals a long-standing tradition of women wielding power in diverse ways, from the spiritual to the political. This challenges stereotypical portrayals of African women and offers a more complete picture of the continent’s history.

“Female Monarchs and Merchant Queens in Africa” isn’t just about the past. It serves as a powerful inspiration for the present. By showcasing the achievements of these historical figures, Achebe demonstrates the vast potential of African women. It’s a message that resonates with anyone who aspires to leadership, regardless of gender.

This book is a must-read for anyone interested in a more nuanced understanding of African history. It’s a compelling narrative that dismantles stereotypes and celebrates the achievements of extraordinary women. It’s a reminder that throughout history, African women have been architects of their communities, wielding influence and shaping destinies. They are queens, not just in title, but in their spirit and actions.

So, pick up a copy, embark on this journey through Africa’s rich past, and be inspired by the legacy of these remarkable women.

Join the Conversation!

If you want to learn more about other inspiring books that delve into African history and culture, join the ATRs Book Club!

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Blackstock & Weber is Reinventing the Penny Loafer

2 mins read
Blackstock & Weber

Brooklyn-based Blackstock & Weber isn’t your typical fashion and lifestyle brand. Founded in 2017 by Chris Echevarria, the brand has carved a unique niche for itself by offering limited-edition footwear with a modern twist on classic styles.

Blackstock & Weber
Chris Echevarria

Echevarria, a veteran of the fashion industry, leveraged his experience to launch Blackstock & Weber from his own apartment. He bypassed the traditional route and sought out a respected English factory known for crafting shoes for Thom Browne.

This focus on quality is evident in Blackstock & Weber’s products, known for their use of premium materials and Goodyear welt construction.

The brand rose to prominence with its take on the penny loafer. Echevarria is credited with playing a role in the recent loafer resurgence. But Blackstock & Weber’s loafers aren’t old-fashioned copies. They feature modern details and a focus on comfort, making them ideal for the everyday wearer.

While some might compare Blackstock & Weber to streetwear brands due to their limited-edition releases, Echevarria himself disputes this. The brand prioritizes quality and craftsmanship over fleeting trends.

They offer a range of styles beyond loafers, including collaborations with partners like J.Crew and Kith. This ability to cater to a wide range of tastes speaks to the versatility of Blackstock & Weber’s design philosophy.

Blackstock & Weber represents a new wave of menswear brands. They bridge the gap between high-end quality and a contemporary, accessible aesthetic. The company’s focus on small-batch production ensures exclusivity, while Echevarria’s commitment to quality guarantees a product built to last.

Blackstock & Weber is a name to watch as they continue to redefine classic menswear staples for the modern age.

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The Eight Seconds Project Captures Black Excellence in Rodeo

2 mins read
eight seconds project

For too long, the image of the cowboy has been a singular one – a white man on a horse, conquering the American West.

But photographer Ivan McClellan’s Eight Seconds Project shatters that stereotype, replacing it with a powerful narrative of resilience and skill: the story of the Black cowboy.

Eight Seconds Project
Ivan McClellan

McClellan’s journey began in 2015 at an unexpected stop – an all-Black rodeo in Oklahoma. Witnessing the Black cowboy culture firsthand ignited a passion within him. Over the years, the Eight Seconds Project has transformed into a stunning visual testament to the enduring legacy of Black cowboys.

Eight Seconds Project

Through his lens, McClellan captures the grit, grace, and unwavering spirit of these men and women. We see them not just riding bulls for eight seconds (the defining moment of a rodeo competition) but also training their horses, tending to their ranches, and living a life deeply connected to the land.

The Eight Seconds Project isn’t just about showcasing exceptional photography; it’s about rewriting the narrative of the Wild West. McClellan’s work has garnered the attention of well known Western brands like Stetson and Wrangler, helping to spread awareness and appreciation for Black cowboys on a national scale.

Eight Seconds Project

The Eight Seconds Project is a powerful reminder that the American West was, and continues to be, shaped by people of color. It’s a call to action to celebrate the richness of our heritage and redefine the cowboys we see on screen and in history books.

Eight Seconds Project

Pre-orders for the photobook, “Eight Seconds: Black Rodeo Culture,” featuring photographs by Ivan McClellan, are now open. The item is set to be released on April 30, 2024.

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Greening the Grind: GSDS is Empowering Businesses with Eco-Friendly Technology

10 mins read
GSDS

Global Service Digital Solutions (GSDS), is a company dedicated to transforming business interactions with a suite of eco-friendly tools ranging from digital and virtual smart business cards to pet ID tags and event promotional cards.

With sustainability taking precedence in the corporate world, traditional methods like bulky flyers and brochures are losing appeal. Today’s businesses seek eco-friendly solutions that reduce their carbon footprint.

In this interview, Ian Bryant and Yasmine Oates, the founders of GSDS, discuss the company’s origin story, delve into their innovative offerings, and share their vision for the future of business interactions.

Global Service Digital Solutions

What inspired the creation of Global Service Digital Solutions and its focus on sustainable business tools?

The credit for how GSDS started and became a company today is given to the love of roller skating. Two years ago, in the summer, we started a community-based roller-skating group called Skates in the Park where we would casually meet up with locals every Saturday in Southeastern Queens to simply– you guessed it– skate in the park.

We had a lot of positive reception for the first year and decided to bring it back last summer. During the first year of Skates in the Park, we would print out mini flyers to share our social handle, email, and phone number with business cards.

We realized that those same flyers were either left on the park tables or tossed on the playground floor in the park where we would skate. It’s crazy how fast people throw things away and we wanted to find an eco-friendly way of sharing our information.

After some thought and research, we decided that we could use a QR code as an easier way to share information for Skates in the Park and did just that. It was easier, faster, and economical, and now we had less cleanup to do when clearing out the park once we finished skating.

We realized then that this could be a business, but we wanted to be different from our competitors. We did further research for a few more months, invested in software and equipment, wrote up a business plan that we edited and re-edited, and identified the drivers for our unique selling proposition and that is when Global Service Digital Solutions was born.

Could you outline some of the products and how they help enhance customer engagement and streamline operations?

Some of the products we offer include digital business cards, dual ID business cards, and QR code stands. Our digital business cards enable customers to effortlessly share their contact information within seconds, eliminating the hassle of manual data entry on their phones and saving valuable time. No more printing or reprinting business cards. You are now reducing paper waste and freeing yourself from carrying a stack of business cards.

With just a tap or scan, you can share product offerings, business locations, and directions. You can add payment links such as Stripe, Venmo, and Cashapp making it easier to receive payments. Now, what about those times when you forget the person’s name that you met?

No worries, we always suggest to our clients to feature a headline that says what they do on their eBusiness Card Landing Page, and that headline is added as a note in the saved contact. So now that baker whose name and business you forgot is easier to find on your phone.

Our Dual ID Business Cards come with the same perks as our Digital Business Cards but also allow customers to have a 2-in-1 deal. With the Dual ID Business Card, employees have a work badge that also operates as a business card. This is a more efficient and smart way of streamlining operations while making connections.


Our Digital QR Code Stands are also very effective in streamlining operations. Think about the process that you’ve recently seen at a doctor’s office where the receptionist either asks you for your name to check you in at the computer or asks you to write your name on the check-in sheet.

GSDS

Wouldn’t it be more efficient to have a Digital QR Code Stand where the patient scans it and checks in on a form online that is sent to the receptionist? This would allow the staff member to get a few seconds back for each check-in which can add up over the day, the week, and months. This time can now be put towards other tasks to help with increasing productivity in the office.

How do you ensure the security and privacy of user data collected through your products?

When it comes to security, we are constantly implementing and monitoring security updates on our content platform in compliance with industry standards. Our printed digital products have an extra layer of security with password protection which makes it extremely difficult for anyone to tamper with your information in addition to our SSL-certified website and content platform. Our content platform is securely hosted separately from our SSL-certified site on Azure infrastructure which allows us to protect data and encrypt even better in three phases:

1) At Rest

2) In Transit (when information is transferred between two or more components)

3) In Use. So, whether currently using the product or not, our infrastructure is constantly adapting and utilizing intel-based virtual machines in line with Azure’s Zero Trust Policy.

GSDS

Can you share a specific example of how GSDS helped a client achieve their business goals?

Two clients in different industries come to mind with this question. For our real estate clients, we’ve noticed that some of them list their latest properties on the market on their eBusiness Card Landing Page which has led to increased inquiries about what they listed. One particular client mentioned that they closed a few deals from inquiries made on properties listed on their Digital Business Card.

Another client of ours who is a restaurateur of a well-known seafood restaurant, reaches out to us every week for updates to their menu. They love how they can easily change menu items as needed and the turnaround time without the need to reprint. It has been more cost-effective for them and allows them to pivot as needed while maintaining a smooth customer experience.

GSDS

How do you envision the future of business interactions, and how will GSDS contribute to this evolution?

We are currently witnessing the future of business interactions unfold in front of our eyes and digital is playing an integral part in this.

The world is moving at an increased speed towards things such as artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) which is being applied to help streamline business operations but from a business interaction perspective, we will still need some form of personal, connected touch to how we engage with each other while thinking digital first.

We see the fusion of augmented realities such as AR holograms on digital business cards or location based QR Code Stands as a new breath of fresh air to how we interact with people creating memorable experiences. GSDS will contribute to this evolution through further research and development in hopes of adding these AR-QR-based concepts.

CONTACT

Global Service Digital Solutions (GSDS)

Email: info@globalservicedigitalsolutions.com

Phone:  1-929-680-6693

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The SMART Tire Company Is on a Mission to Disrupt the $300B Tire Industry

10 mins read
The SMART Tire Company

The SMART Tire Company is on a quest to revolutionize the tire industry with puncture-proof, sustainable tires inspired by space exploration.

In this interview, co-founder Earl Cole discusses the inspiration behind the company, the advantages of collaborating with NASA, and how their current crowdfunding campaign will fuel their mission.

What inspired you to start The SMART Tire Company?

I was recruited for a NASA-sponsored technology program for entrepreneurs. It was normally a program that took place in Ohio, but due to the pandemic at the time, it opened up virtually nationwide. There were a lot of NASA technologies available within the program, but I soon discovered the superelastic tire technology, saw its potential, and my research began.

My co-founder and I ended up winning 1st place in the program, started The SMART Tire Company, Inc., and began working directly with NASA through a Space Act Agreement to figure out how to commercialize this innovative tire technology. I was also enrolled in a doctorate program at USC at the time but decided to put it on hold to fully pursue the vision I had for this new company.

The tire industry is a legacy industry that hasn’t been disrupted in over 100 years, so it was quite the task. Do you remember when Goodyear and Michelin were just startups? Probably not. None of us ever had the opportunity to get in on the ground floor of these multi-billion dollar tire companies that we all depend on to this day. With us, you have that opportunity.

SMART Tire Company unveils new second-generation prototype of 'space-age' metal tyres | road.cc

How has working with NASA’s technology influenced STC’s tire innovation, and what specific advantages does this collaboration bring to your company?

The initial invention, a tire made from shape memory alloys, owes its heritage to NASA’s rover program, where they are forced to overcome the most extreme conditions imaginable on Mars and the Moon.

Terrestrial tires are quite a bit different but benefit from some of the same interesting properties of these new materials. NASA as a collaborator brings certain modeling & analysis capabilities to the table that aren’t available elsewhere.

Also, the fact that NASA is a government organization owned by the American taxpayer, there’s some pride in giving access to Black communities and investors to support and/or own a piece of a black-owned, American company that works with NASA and other cool space projects.

What challenges do you foresee bringing this new technology to the mainstream market? How do you plan to overcome them?

Customer education is always an interesting challenge. To a certain degree, people need to “unlearn” some of their expectations about a tire: that it must be inflated, that airless tires are always heavy or difficult to install, or that riding on air is an unbeatable approach. The key to overcoming misconceptions is putting good products in people’s hands.

This is part of the reason why we are interested in bikes and scooters: not only are they lucrative consumer markets, but they are an opportunity for people to experience the technology at a small scale and build trust in our brand before we go after bigger markets (like cars and trucks).

This is also a high tech product with technical risk, but we’ve extinguished a lot of those challenges along the way.

What pricing strategy will The SMART Tire Company employ to balance the innovative nature of the product with ensuring affordability for the target market?

Our initial consumer products will be priced on the higher end, with a focus on peace of mind and total cost over time. We expect the cost to come down naturally over time and with volume.

NASA is committed to ongoing R&D that potentially doubles the effectiveness of the material we use, which could drop our costs drastically in the future.

Since this is a tire that can last the life of your vehicle, we plan to offer alternative pricing models and strong guarantees to rideshare partners who adopt the technology at scale. They tend to think more in terms of the lifetime cost of the component than the average consumer.

You are currently running a crowdfunding campaign. What are your goals for this campaign, and how will the raised funds be utilized?

Our current crowdfunding goal is to raise enough capital to grow our engineering team and support our go-to-market strategy for bicycles and scooters this year.

We are raising $2-$3M overall primarily through crowdfunding (future customers and supporters). We’ve found that having thousands of “regular folk” backers is a great resource for the company, beyond just the money involved.

You don’t have to be wealthy or a sophisticated investor to be a part of our company. We want all people (especially “us”) to have the opportunity to invest at whatever level they are comfortable with. A $300B market opportunity.

Your previous campaign raised over $1 million in just 3 days. What factors do you attribute to this accomplishment?

We were very fortunate that there was extreme interest in what we were building from the start! Practically everyone on Earth is familiar with cars, trucks, and/or bicycles, which all use tires – and everyone hates flats. Not only that, but working on a game-changing technology from NASA is very intriguing.

I mean, there’s a strong chance that our tires will end up going to the moon! How cool is that?! I think our campaign also hit the right notes and told the right story. People wanted to be a part of it. We’re taking on a very large, established industry, and everyone loves a good underdog story!

Are there any potential partnerships The SMART Tire Company is exploring with bicycle manufacturers or other industry players to facilitate market penetration?

Yes, we received early support from Ford Mobility and Felt Bicycles, and are currently engaged with one of the major rideshare providers as well as bicycle and scooter manufacturers. Of course, working with NASA has earned us a lot of credibility, so we are quite mindful of who we partner with.

We do receive regular inquiries from major tire companies, but as of today we plan to remain independent (perhaps until one of them writes us a check big enough to get our attention LOL)

How can our community get involved?

SMART Tire is not just another technology company. We are building the next, great American tire company, which is not easy. We are a Black owned business committed to diversity and manufacturing products right here in the USA.

This is about more than just cool space technology: it’s about making a real difference through job creation and sustainable innovation that affects everyday lives. Our lives – and inspiring the next generation of black innovators and entrepreneurs.

It’s in this spirit that STC has prioritized RegCF crowdfunding as our primary source of investment. A more fair and democratized system for people who want to own equity in our company. This is a different kind of leveled-up crowdfunding only been available since 2021, where companies can raise up to $5M per year from everyday investors.

It only takes 5 minutes to reserve your shares at WeFunder to join The SMART Tire Company on this journey!

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Noir Lux Candle Co.: From Kitchen Table to Over Half a Million Dollars in Sales

2 mins read
Noir Lux Candle co

Seattle-based Noir Lux Candle Co. exemplifies the effects of mixing passion and perseverance. Founded by Colina Bruce, it began as a pandemic-born side hustle but swiftly evolved into a successful business.

Noir Lux Candle Co
Colina Bruce, Founder of Noir Lux Candle Co.

During the pandemic, Colina, like many, sought solace in the gentle glow of candles throughout her day. This simple ritual ignited a spark of inspiration: to curate her own collection of handcrafted, eco-friendly candles that evoke warmth and nostalgia.

Beginning with no prior experience, Colina delved into the realm of candle-making through online tutorials. Her debut launch proved an instant success, with 120 candles sold within three hours.

This early surge, amounting to approximately $150,000 in revenue within Noir Lux’s first operational year, received an extra boost from a feature in Oprah Magazine, cementing the brand’s status among the nation’s premier Black-owned candle makers.

Noir Lux Candle Co

Initially, an online-only business, Noir Lux has grown into a vibrant brick-and-mortar space. The journey wasn’t without its challenges. Colina, navigating the world of entrepreneurship for the first time, grappled with self-doubt and financial hurdles.

However, with the support of mentors, grants, and a resourceful network, she secured funding and transformed a raw concrete space into a beautiful retail store and community hub.

Beyond their exquisite candles, Noir Lux presents an interactive DIY candle bar, inviting patrons to craft personalized creations from a palette of over 100 fragrances.

Noir Lux Candle Co

At Noir Lux, sustainability takes center stage. Their candles boast 100% natural soy wax, phthalate-free fragrance oils, and wooden wicks. Moreover, they actively champion other Black-owned vendors by featuring their products in-store.

Colina’s passion for creation and her dedication to uplifting others lie at the core of Noir Lux’s triumph. As the company continues to flourish, Colina envisions expanding the product range and providing an even firmer platform for fellow entrepreneurs to thrive.

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Black Owned Travel Related Brands For Your Next Trip

3 mins read
Black owned travel

Ready to embark on your next adventure? Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a weekend getaway enthusiast, this curated list is your one-stop shop for travel essentials by brilliant Black owned brands.

From sleek luggage to mood-setting candles, informative apps to head-turning bags, these brands will help you travel confidently and in style.

Black Owned Travel Related Brands

Take Off Luggage

Goodbye Baggage Fees: This Black Man Created A Carry-On That Converts To A Personal Bag - Travel Noire

Take Off Luggage empowers budget-conscious travelers. Their carry-on suitcases detach from their wheels, transforming them into free “personal items” that fit under most airline seats, potentially eliminating baggage fees.

DIARRABLU

Conscious Contemporary Lifestyle Brand – diarrablu

DIARRABLU injects a dose of sunshine into your wardrobe with bold, eye-catching maxi dresses and sleek kimonos designed for effortless style on vacation or at home.

Bright Black

Discover a world of fragrance with the Diaspora Discovery Set. Six mini candles, each containing 0.5oz of wax, offer a delightful 1-2 hour burn time, perfect for exploring a range of scents at home or away.

SquadTrip

Trips – SquadTrip

SquadTrip is an online platform designed to make group travel planning a breeze. It caters to organizers by offering a central hub for managing everything from creating a trip website to collecting payments and communicating with participants.

CURIOCITY

Curiocity is a chain of hybrid hotels, hostels, and travel experiences specifically based in South Africa. They focus on connecting “curious travelers” to the unique experiences each location offers

KariAndGo

Enhance your on-the-go style with a handcrafted KariAndGo messenger bag. Made in Ghana using vibrant African fabrics, these bags are the perfect companions for your adventures.

EMarie

The Everything Travel Blanket by E Marie Travel

Designed for life on the go, this versatile piece effortlessly transitions from a blissfully-soft scarf to snuggly blanket in a snap.

WearDiop

The Akira Fanny Pack features a water-resistant coating and spacious pockets, making it ideal for keeping your belongings safe and dry during any activity.

Cincha

Amazon.com: Cincha Mini Travel Belt for Luggage - Stylish & Adjustable Add a Bag Luggage Strap for Carry On Bag - Airport Travel Accessories for Women & Men - As Seen on

Cincha Travel offers stylish and functional travel accessories, designed to make your journeys easier. Their signature product is a travel belt that secures your personal bag to your carry-on, freeing up your hands.

BlackTravelBox®

BlackTravelBox Offers Beauty Products for The Traveler on the Go

BlackTravelBox® hair and skincare products are made for life on the go, with travel friendly packaging and formulations that make packing, carrying (on), and using them simple and easy.

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Somatus: A Billion-Dollar Disruptor in Kidney Care

3 mins read
Somatus

Somatus, a Virginia-based healthcare company, is revolutionizing the way kidney disease is managed.

Founded in 2016 by Dr. Ikenna Okezie, the company has become a leader in value-based kidney care, prioritizing prevention and empowering patients to take control of their health.

Somatus identified a gap in traditional care, which often focuses on dialysis for late-stage kidney disease. Their model flips the script, emphasizing early detection and prevention. The company’s secret weapon? The proprietary RenalIQ platform. This AI-powered platform uses machine learning and analytics to track patient health, identify at-risk individuals, and offer telehealth and virtual care options.

Somatus further strengthens its approach through partnerships with local nephrologists, primary care physicians, and health plans. This multi-disciplinary approach ensures patients receive personalized, in-home care and the knowledge they need to manage their condition effectively.

In 2022, Somatus served over 150,000 members across various healthcare plans. That same year they secured over $325 million in Series E funding. This deal was ranked as one of the biggest healthcare VC deals of 2022, valuing the company at over $2.5 billion.

“Since our inception, Somatus has always been committed to bringing superior evidence-based integrated care to patients with kidney disease, which delays disease progression, improves quality of life, and lowers total cost of care,” Okezie said when announcing the Series E funding round. “This investment puts us in a great position to fund the expansion of our proven care model and continue building a nationwide network of providers and connected patients, who alongside our care teams are working together to improve lives and transform the industry.”

In June 2023, Somatus announced a significant expansion of their existing collaborative efforts with Kidney Care Center. This multi-state partnership leverages Somatus’s VBC (value-based care) model, Care Coordination (CKCC), and joint venture arrangements to enhance patient care through a local care team, advanced technology, and direct medical care.

Furthermore, Somatus signed the Health Evolution Pledge in October 2023, demonstrating their commitment to leveraging data to address health disparities and improve access to care in underserved communities.

In February 2024, Somatus was selected as a preferred partner by Sun Life U.S. to deliver a unique care model for their stop-loss members with late-stage kidney disease and heart disease. This collaboration aims to improve patient health outcomes while reducing costs through AI-driven medication management, care coordination, nutritional support, and transitions of care, aligning with Sun Life’s Clinical 360 program focused on data analytics to enhance outcomes.

With groundbreaking technologies and strategic partnerships, they offer hope to millions affected by CKD, promising a new era of compassionate healthcare. This impact is particularly significant given that over 37 million Americans have CKD, underscoring the potential of Somatus’s work.

by Tony O. Lawson

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