Soul Food Starters Fills the Gap Left by Retailers, Empowering Black Consumers to Fund Their Causes

As major retailers and funding programs scale back or abandon their Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, Soul Food Starters is stepping up with a powerful alternative. Through its Fundraising Partnership Program, the Black-owned brand enables communities to raise funds for their organizations while supporting a business that authentically represents them.

Soul Food Starters offers a 50/50 fundraising model, allowing organizations to earn half the profits from every sale. Unlike traditional fundraising programs that offer minimal percentages or require upfront investment, this initiative makes it easy for groups to fund their missions with a culturally resonant product—classic soul food recipes that bring families together.

“With retailers pulling back on their DEI commitments, we saw an opportunity to create our own lane,” said Chef Claude Booker, founder of Soul Food Starters. “Rather than relying on stores that no longer prioritize Black-owned brands, we’re putting the power directly into the hands of our community—allowing them to fund their causes while helping us grow.”

The Fundraising Partnership Program is open to a variety of organizations, including churches, schools, fraternities, sororities and community groups. With every purchase, customers not only enjoy delicious soul food mixes but also contribute directly to causes that matter to them.

One of Soul Food Starters’ key partners is the Zeta National Education Foundation (ZNEF), which provides annual financial support to deserving undergraduate and graduate students pursuing higher education.

Soul Food Starters aims to prove that Black businesses and Black consumers don’t need corporate approval to succeed. By supporting each other, the community can build wealth, sustain culture and create new economic opportunities—without relying on retailers that have deprioritized DEI initiatives.

For more information or to partner with Soul Food Starters, visit Soul Food.