CLEVELAND, Ohio — Adun Spice Co., owned by Ramat Wiley, has made history as the first Cleveland-based business selected for the annual Champion Black Businesses program, a collaboration between the NBA and ESPN. This exciting initiative, now in its sixth year, promotes Black-owned businesses nationwide through a series of promotional videos aired during the NBA Finals.
Wiley, who discovered her selection via an unexpected email, expressed her surprise at being spotlighted without submitting an application. “I attribute it to people saying your name in rooms that you’re not in yet,” she remarked. “This was truly an affirmation of you’re doing what you need to be doing. Your business is seen, your business is cherished by your community and keep going.”
A video featuring Wiley, filmed at her store located at 12721 Larchmere Blvd., highlights the essence of her brand and her contributions to the local community. “The fact that they’re doing it during such a tumultuous time in the world to say, ‘We still want to champion you and we want you to continue to be here for the future,’” Wiley noted, emphasizing the significance of support for small businesses.
As part of the Champion Black Businesses program, Wiley has also connected with four other women-owned businesses from across the nation, ranging from Los Angeles to Harlem. “I’m in good company,” she said, proud of representing Cleveland in this distinguished cohort.
Since the video went live last week, Adun Spice Co. has seen a surge in online orders from all over the country, particularly from those with ties to Cleveland who are eager to support her endeavor. “We plan to continue building and growing,” Wiley said, highlighting her commitment to expansion.
With a positive outlook, Wiley encourages fellow local business owners to pursue their dreams, reminding them, “you never know who’s watching. The people who support you will always be there when you least expect it.” Her story serves as an inspiring reminder of the impact of community support and the importance of perseverance in entrepreneurship.
Adun Spice Co. offers a variety of spices and seasoning blends available in-store and online, catering to culinary enthusiasts across the nation.