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By Ray’Chel Wilson, CFEI, CFT-I
When Mariah T. Howard steps into a room, be it City Hall, a trade summit or a neighborhood gathering, she carries Cleveland with her. Not just as her hometown, but as a living example of what’s possible when local roots meet global ambition. As chief innovation officer for the National Black Chamber of Commerce and a serial entrepreneur, Howard’s recent experience at the 14th Annual U.S.–Nigeria Trade & Investment Summit in Cleveland showed why the city is ready to lead in the global economy.
Howard, who represented the National Black Chamber of Commerce, clarified she wasn’t speaking on behalf of the city. She highlighted Cleveland’s role as host and described it as “strategically positioned to support a global economic transformation,” especially for business owners seeking a high quality of life through smart contracting and manufacturing.
From the Lakefront to Lagos
The summit—hosted by NUSACC with Global Cleveland, the Collaborative Chambers Alliance and the Greater Cleveland Chinese Chamber of Commerce—brought together leaders from across the Black and African diaspora.
In his May address, keynote speaker Ambassador Abubakar Jidda, consul general of Nigeria in New York, called U.S.–Africa trade a strategic priority.
Africa is among the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets, according to the Brookings Institution. Nigeria, with over 220 million people, is a gateway to West Africa—a hub of culture, energy and innovation, as noted by Countrymeters and the Premium Times. Yet fewer than 1% of U.S. small businesses export, despite making up 99% of all firms, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Cleveland’s Strategic Edge
Cleveland’s international port generated more than $7 billion in regional economic impact in 2023, according to a study commissioned by the Ohio Department of Transportation.
“The next step is supporting business owners who can leverage these assets to drive global economic transformation,” Howard said. “We are not just talking about contracts and manufacturing. We are talking about building generational wealth, both here and abroad.”
One voice standing out was Sam Ifeacho, founder of Discover Chemical and Ifeacho & Associates Digital Solutions. He is creating a pipeline between U.S. manufacturers and African markets—delivering clean fuels, specialty chemicals and industrial solutions, while helping suppliers become contract-ready.
“He is proof that small businesses can make a global impact. But you have to be willing to step into the room, take a chance on yourself and own the opportunity,” Howard said.
Keys for Cleveland Business Owners
- Compliance is key
Business structure and compliance can make or break success. “Do your homework—permits, codes, licenses,” Howard said. Know your company’s unique value in the industry. - Collaboration is king
“Recognize and honor the work that is already being done,” Howard said. Collaboration runs deep—from community leaders to local chambers of commerce to job-creating initiatives. - Count it up
Cleveland’s population is 362,656, according to the 2023 Census. But the Port of Cleveland contributes $4.7 billion in annual activity and supports 22,000 jobs. “Know your numbers,” Howard said. “If you land a big contract, how many people will you need to hire? Elevate lives—not just your bottom line.”
Entrepreneurs Reentering the Workforce
Howard understands the shift from entrepreneurship to public service.
“You have to kill your ego,” she said, laughing. “You are going to play a different role, and that is okay. Your competence is not in question—but your compatibility and ability to contribute to the greater good are what matter now.”
She encourages former entrepreneurs to leverage traditional employment benefits—especially in financial planning. If you don’t need employer-provided health insurance, you may be able to negotiate for other perks like a higher retirement match. “Know your rights and maximize your new opportunities,” she said.
Why Cleveland
Ask Howard her favorite thing about Cleveland, and her eyes light up. “It’s the culture. We don’t give up. There’s always something to do—concerts, development projects like the North Coast Connector, and a lakefront that’s about to get even better.”
The North Coast Connector is a multi-phase, 2.25-million-square-foot development valued at more than $1.1 billion.
Asked about her favorite restaurant, Howard laughed. “There are too many to choose from! Downtown, Ohio City, the East Side—every neighborhood has its gems.”
Grants as a Gateway
In her role as the City of Cleveland’s project manager in the Department of Finance and Innovation and Technology, Howard leads strategic initiatives to improve services citywide.
She points to a wide range of grants and support programs for small businesses ready to grow. These include Make It in Cleveland’s Incentives & Financing, the city’s public grant programs, and partners like the Urban League of Greater Cleveland and the Cleveland SBA District Office.
Made Marketing is another key player, helping businesses apply for federal grants, navigate compliance and build capital readiness.
The Takeaway
Cleveland is more than a city—it’s a launchpad.
“Do your part where you are, with what you have,” Howard said. “That’s how you make the world better—and that’s how Cleveland leads the way.”
Disclaimer
The views expressed in this article are solely those of Mariah T. Howard and do not represent the City of Cleveland. Mention of private entities, including Made Marketing, is for informational purposes only and does not imply affiliation or endorsement by the city.
About the Author
Ray’Chel Wilson, a Toledo native, is the author of the Black Wealth Freedom workbook series and CEO of ForOurLastNames, a platform turning financial trauma into financial traction for first-generation wealth builders. She is a certified financial educator and financial therapist who researches stewardship, economic development and leadership to promote financial flourishing.
