Small business owners in Durham’s historic Fayetteville Street corridor are embracing the city’s newly relaunched Bounce Back program. This initiative aids small businesses with tech support, branding, workshops, and grants up to $10,000 for property improvements.
For Andre Johnson, owner of AJ’s Barbershop, this support is crucial. His barbershop, a staple for NCCU students and locals for nearly 20 years, faces costly maintenance on its 50-year-old building. Johnson emphasizes the corridor’s significance as a remaining hub for Black-owned businesses in Durham.
Angelica Greene, who owns Angel World of Flowers, has previously benefited from the program by upgrading her floral cooler. She notes there are still maintenance needs, like replacing ceiling tiles and light fixtures, and advocates for more investment in the area.
Similarly, Tre Tapp of Chicken Hut highlights the challenges of rising operating costs but believes that small upgrades can attract more customers. City leaders stress that the Bounce Back program is designed to bolster entrepreneurship and preserve the historic character of Fayetteville Street. For business owners like Johnson, it’s a chance to invest in the community and secure the future of long-standing businesses.
