Mandela Partners

People

Mandela Partners is a nonprofit organization that works in partnership with local residents, family farmers, and community-based businesses.

About

Founded in Oakland in 2004, Mandela Partners works to improve health and grow wealth in low-income communities. For new business owners, the nonprofit’s Entrepreneurs Program offers a suite of services, including a 10-week workshop series to help them develop their business plan; one-on-one advising to refine and formalize their business; and market opportunities to test their concept and reach customers. Mandela supports entrepreneurs in accessing markets through two key ways: their incubator food hall in Ashland (unincorporated Alameda County), known as E14th Eatery + Kitchen; and partnerships with organizations like Foodwise. Foodwise partners with Mandela Partners to host local food entrepreneurs in popping up at the farmers market to connect with the larger Bay Area community.