Meet Annelle Whitt

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Annelle Whitt. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Annelle below.

Annelle, we’ve been so fortunate to work with so many incredible folks and one common thread we have seen is that those who have built amazing lives for themselves are also often the folks who are most generous. Where do you think your generosity comes from?

The foundation’s generosity stems from the legacy of James A. Whitt Sr., whose unwavering commitment to the economic development of M/WBEs in Columbia and Mid-Missouri was deeply personal. He believed passionately in the power of investing in these businesses to close the financial gap. Recognizing the frequent lack of support and belief faced by M/WBEs, we strive to be that crucial source of encouragement, ensuring everyone has a fair chance to achieve their dreams.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

We are dedicated to fostering economic development in Columbia and Mid-Missouri by championing the success of Minority and Women Business Enterprises (M/WBEs). Through strategic SEED Grants, comprehensive business training workshops, and personalized coaching and mentoring, we equip M/WBEs with the tools they need to excel in the marketplace. Our mission is rooted in the belief that empowering these businesses is crucial for boosting social mobility, building generational wealth, and driving large-scale economic growth. We envision a future where race and gender wealth gaps are eliminated, creating an inclusive economic landscape that uplifts all communities. To make this vision come true we have our upcoming 3rd annual fundraiser.

SEED of Success Gala: The Grand Masquerade
Date: August 16, 2025
Location: The Atrium on Tenth

A night of elegance & impact featuring: Gourmet dining & drinks, Live entertainment & performances, Exclusive silent auction & raffles and Networking with business & community leaders

The second event is our 3rd Annual James A. Whitt Sr. Golf Tournament
Date: August 16, 2025
Location: AL Gustin Golf Course

A fun-filled tournament supporting a great cause: 4-player, 18-hole format, Hole contests & exciting raffle prizes and Great networking opportunities

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

​Reflecting on the impactful journey of the James & Annelle Whitt Entrepreneurial Development Foundation (JAWEDF), three key qualities have been instrumental in our success:​

Visionary Leadership: Inspired by the legacy of James A. Whitt Sr., whose dedication to preserving Columbia’s Black business history led to the establishment of The Shops at Sharp End, we emphasize the importance of visionary leadership in driving community-focused initiatives. ​

Advice: Aspiring entrepreneurs should cultivate a clear vision that aligns with community needs and historical context. Engaging with local history and understanding the legacy of past leaders can provide valuable insights and inspiration.​

Commitment to Empowerment: Our mission centers on creating opportunities that support the economic development of Minority and Women Business Enterprises (M/WBEs) in Mid-Missouri. This commitment has led to the development of programs like the SEED Grants, free workshops, and coaching, all designed to empower local entrepreneurs. ​

Advice: Early-stage entrepreneurs should seek out and participate in programs that offer mentorship, training, and financial support. Engaging with organizations dedicated to empowerment can provide the resources and networks necessary for growth.​

Community Collaboration: Recognizing the strength in unity, we have fostered collaborations with local businesses and community leaders. This collaborative approach has been vital in creating a supportive ecosystem for M/WBEs, facilitating shared growth and success. ​

Advice: Building strong relationships within your community can open doors to partnerships, mentorships, and support systems. Attend local events, join business networks, and actively engage with peers to create a collaborative environment.​

By focusing on these areas—visionary leadership, empowerment, and collaboration—JAWEDF has made significant strides in supporting minority and women entrepreneurs. For those at the beginning of their journey, embracing these qualities can pave the way for meaningful and sustainable success.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

To empower Minority and Women Business Enterprises (M/WBEs) in Columbia and Mid-Missouri, we are seeking partners to co-create the James & Annelle Whitt Business Academy. This transformative program will equip M/WBEs with the knowledge and skills to build profitable businesses, create jobs, and contribute significantly to our region’s economic prosperity.

Contact Info:

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Resilience
Ignoring the Naysayers

Almost everything that’s changed the world in a positive way has been an unreasonable idea.

Mental Health
Thriving Through Adversity & Overcoming Mental Health Challenges

“After every storm, there is a rainbow. If you have eyes, you will find it.

Resilience
Where do you get your resilience from?

Resilience is often the x-factor that differentiates between mild and wild success. The stories of