Celebrating Black entrepreneurs: Stories of Progress

At BMO, Zero Barriers to Business means providing access for entrepreneurs so they can reach the full potential of their business. Last year we launched the BMO for Black Entrepreneurship Fund, a $100 million commitment to funding for Black-owned businesses across Canada. Since then, we’ve partnered with incredible business owners who are growing the good in their communities.  .  

Keithyrvine Antoine and Ceendy Moscova, Espace Urbain 

Espace Urbain is a Montreal-based boutique that specializes in African clothing and jewelry. Keithyrvine Antoine and Ceendy Moscova recently came over to BMO after a lack of support for their business from their previous institution during the pandemic. Hosna Kadary, Relationship Manager, BMO Black Entrepreneurs Program, provided the guidance and solutions to help Espace Urbain take the next step. 

“We had tried to get funding and help not just from our previous financial institution, but also from different programs that claimed to be dedicated to Black businesses and their growth. However, they all proved to be false and not exactly what was advertised.  We are very grateful to have been referred to Hosna and her team, as well as BMO for offering this program.” 

– Keithyrvine Antoine
Business Owner, Espace Urbain

BMO’s funding allowed Keithyrvine and Ceendy to grow their staff from two to seven people, work on new projects for the boutique and improve their website and social media. They now have a cash flow and safety net, so they are prepared for the unexpected. Through the BMO for Black Entrepreneurship program, they plan to continue to grow, including potentially expanding to a second store.

Learn more about the BMO for Black Entrepreneurship Fund and BMO’s commitment to zero barriers for business owners.