The Conscious Connect Community Development Corporation’s Southside Incubator is set to host its second annual Rose City Black Business Month Awards Brunch on August 15. This event celebrates the impact of Black-owned businesses on the Springfield economy and highlights the work of local entrepreneurs who serve as community cornerstones.

Four leaders will receive recognition during the ceremony. Richard Riddle of Riddle’s Ribs is the recipient of the South Yellow Springs Street Legacy Award. Eric “Coach Swig” Clark of Springfield Elite is being honored with the Sheila Rice Henry Community Impact Award. Nathan Conner will receive the Johnny Lytle Innovation Award for his contributions as a visual artist. Dr. Mecca S. Carter-Marshall of Unspoken Courage LLC is the recipient of the Rising Enterprise Award.

This awards program is part of a broader month-long initiative to support local economic development. The Southside Incubator provides workspaces and resources for business leaders and non-profit organizations to help them scale their operations. Organizers believe that recognizing these individuals helps emphasize the importance of local small businesses to the long-term success of the Springfield area.

The event takes place at Kore @ 608 on West Southern Avenue from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Those interested in attending the brunch must secure tickets by August 9 through the organization’s digital portal.