MIAMI – Jamila Ross and Akino West knew they would need a little luck if they were going to keep their Overtown hotel afloat during the pandemic.
In August, after opening a pop-up restaurant while their hotel remained largely uninhabited because of coronavirus restrictions, the couple won $25,000 from Discover Card, which dedicated $5 million to helping Black-owned restaurants.
Together with a small business loan, it has allowed the couple to reinvest in their business.
It became a hit — especially after people started looking for ways to support Black-owned businesses amid the social justice movement.
A pair of small businesses, Say Sukii florist and Golden Flowers MIA, designed an entryway for their outdoor dining area.