Fostering Innovation and Collaboration Across St. Louis’s Business Scene
STL Black Biz had the privilege of connecting with Emerging Business Leaders (EBL) founders, Tyree Scott and Dominick Tice. This incredible group was founded to create opportunities for entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and community leaders, fostering growth and collaboration.
How did you two connect?
Dominick and I go way back—we’ve been friends since middle school, while attending Riverview Gardens High School together and we where part of the same organization that helped groom us into respectable young men. We later became college roommates at Lincoln University of Missouri, and from that point on, we’ve been brothers ever since.
Our shared experiences and values made it clear that we were meant to build something bigger together. After years of brainstorming and seeing the challenges our community faced, we founded Emerging Business Leaders LLC in 2023 to create real opportunities for entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and community leaders.
What was the “why” and the spark behind Emerging Business Leaders?
The spark came from a simple but powerful realization that too many talented entrepreneurs and community leaders struggle due to a lack of resources, support, and exposure. We wanted to change that. Our mission is to educate, promote, and develop leaders who will not only succeed, but also give back, creating a ripple effect of growth and opportunity.
What future do you envision for Emerging Business Leaders?
We see EBL becoming a cornerstone of entrepreneurial success in St. Louis and beyond. We envision expanding our Business Academy, growing the STL Cash MOB, and increasing the impact of our End the Gun Violence initiatives. Long term, we want to develop a network where businesses and communities work hand in hand to build sustainable success.
Why is there a need for Emerging Business Leaders, especially in the St. Louis community?
St. Louis is filled with talented entrepreneurs and visionaries, but many lack access to the tools, mentorship, and capital they need to thrive. EBL fills that gap by providing education, promotion, and development opportunities that empower businesses and community leaders to reach their full potential.
Why is it important to bring businesses and the community together?
When businesses and communities support each other, everybody wins. Strong businesses create jobs, drive economic growth, and fund local initiatives. Likewise, a strong community supports businesses creating a cycle of success. Our work is about strengthening that connection to ensure mutual growth and long-term prosperity.
What is the number one thing everyone should know about your organization?
We are more than a networking group—we are a movement. EBL is committed to real impact, providing tangible resources and opportunities to help entrepreneurs and community leaders succeed.
If others are interested in joining your group, is there an open invitation to do so?
Absolutely! We welcome business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, community leaders, and anyone passionate about making a difference. To get involved, reach out to us via email emerging_leaders@outlook.com we’d love to connect!
Is there anything you want the public to know about Emerging Business Leaders?
We’re here to uplift, educate, and empower. Whether you need support as an entrepreneur or want to be part of the change in St. Louis, EBL is a space where ideas turn into action, and action turns into success.
What words of encouragement would you like to leave for seasoned and aspiring entrepreneurs?
Success isn’t about how many times you fall – it’s about how many times you get back up. Stay consistent, stay learning, and never be afraid to bet on yourself. The journey of entrepreneurship isn’t always easy, but with faith, resilience, and the right support system, anything is possible. Keep building, keep believing, and keep pushing forward!
None of this would be possible without the dedication and hard work of our amazing team, the backbone of Emerging Business Leaders LLC.
A huge thank you to:
Johnelle Browne, our phenomenal President, leading with vision and passion.
Rashid Troup, our Vice President and in-house graphics designer, making sure our brand stays sharp.
Donald James & Derricka Wilson, our talented photographers, capturing every moment of impact.
Tyron Brown, a local artist and personality consultant, bringing creativity and energy to our initiatives.
Chauntese Williams, our executive assistant, keeping everything running smoothly.
Joy Edwards and so many more incredible individuals who help push our mission forward.
With over 59 businesses participating in our programs, EBL is more than just an organization – it’s a movement. Together, they’re building a stronger, more connected community, and this is just the beginning! EBL thanks everyone for their support, dedication, and belief in the power of entrepreneurship and says the best is yet to come!
To learn more you can visit Emerging Business Leaders EBL at www.facebook.com/groups/576731172512190/. To get involved, reach out to EBL via email emerging_leaders@outlook.com we’d love to connect!
#LocalEntrepreneurs #BusinessNetworking”
