"A goal for the space was to create additional opportunity for Black and Brown makers to be highlighted and to collectively show all of the really cool things people are already doing in this area. Our pastries are made by Lisa Bakes Bars, we sell juice from Juicy J Juice Bar, Big Up Brew coffee beans, candles from North End Rose, and clothing made by several Hartford natives and Connecticut-based vendors such as demuerte and Radar Vision Boys. We’ve partnered with Cafeteria Radio in furtherance of this goal," explained Semilla Cafe + Studio Co-Owner Aimee Chambers.

"I’m also grateful for resources like the Hartford Chamber of Commerce. Director of Small Business Development Shannon Mumley has wonderful energy. She’s a great resource and has also been supportive of our initiative and of the business," Aimee added. "When I mentioned to Shannon that part of our goal is to bring visibility to makers who are people of color operating in and around the Hartford area, she knew of a whole list of vendors. She said, "Let’s fill the space!" That’s a great example of the community’s support of the business and of this space—and of Hartford."