COLUMBIA, SC (WACH) — The 3rd Annual Black Eats Week 803 is in full swing in Columbia, and local black-owned businesses are up in sales.

Through June 23-29, eight black-owned food establishments are offering food specials, contributing to the city’s economic growth.

It aims to highlight and support Black entrepreneurs in the food industry, providing a platform that creates awareness and allows diners the opportunity to discover new favorites while supporting their local community.

The Columbia Chamber of Commerce highlighted the positive impact of black-owned businesses on the state’s economy, noting that there are over a thousand black-owned businesses in Columbia.

The Chamber’s Director of Small and Minority Business said these businesses have grown by 30%.

30% means they’re hiring employees, this means they’re growing their annual revenue each year at least by 30% and they’re giving back,” Naomi Walton of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce said.

The exposure from Black Eats Week is seen as a valuable asset, further boosting these numbers, Walton said.

Khali Gallman, the founder of Black Eats Week, emphasized the abundance of opportunities for black-owned businesses.

One of the restaurants said that in first six months she made $300,000 in revenue, so I mean the money is here, the opportunities are here,” Gallman said.

Gallman also noted that some restaurants are in the process of franchising, with customers often lined up out the door.

Shelli Pue, owner of Rebel Dogs, shared how the event has impacted her business.

Because of Black Eats Week and the exposure we have, we are now expanding and opening next door, one door over because most days were packed at lunch and there’s no room for seating,” Pue said.

Rebel Dogs is among several businesses experiencing increased sales.

Black Eats Week has shown consistent growth since day one.

The first year it was 2,500 just about, last year it was 3,800 people, so it is steadily growing,” Gallman said.

Organizers of Black Eats Week continue to add new restaurants to the list each year, helping the Midlands thrive economically.