There was standing room only at the Sport of Kings Theatre in Hallandale Beach Friday night as Philip Morris International’s U.S. businesses (PMI U.S.) announced a new partnership with the Urban League of Broward County (ULBC), supported by a $400,000, three-year donation designed to expand economic opportunity for small businesses and accelerate economic development across South Florida.
Dr. Germaine Smith Baugh, President and CEO of ULBC, said the partnership arrives at a pivotal moment.
“By investing in our neighbors, PMI U.S. is helping small business owners do what they do best: build, create, and keep our community strong,” Baugh said in a statement.
“We’re truly grateful for this partnership and excited for all we’ll accomplish together to lift up small businesses and the families we serve.”
Moyer McCoy, Director of External Affairs and Head of Social Impact at PMI U.S., called UBLC “a quintessential partner” in his organization’s “mission to put pragmatic philanthropy in action here in South Florida.”
“By opening doors to capital and connection,” he said, “our partnership with ULBC will help local entrepreneurs turn ideas into lasting community impact.”
The collaboration kicked off with PowerPitch South Florida, a one-day summit and reality television-style pitch competition co-hosted by PMI U.S. and the Central County Community Development Corporation, ULBC’s Community Development Financial Institution.
Adding star power to the night, rappers Rick Ross and Uncle Luke served as guest judges, energizing the crowd and offering feedback and business advice to contestants.
Kimba Williams, founder and CEO of women’s health brand Kushae, won first place and a $25,000 prize to help scale her company. Nadia Davis, CEO of Show Agents, and Kay Richardson, founder of Next of Kin, placed as runners-up, earning $10,000 and $5,000, respectively.
PMI U.S.’s donation is part of more than $1 million in philanthropic contributions PMI U.S. has made across Florida in recent years, benefiting organizations such as the Armed Forces Family Foundation, Florida Alliance to End Human Trafficking, Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice, K9s for Warriors, and Tampa Bay Thrives.
