Entrepreneur and community builder Angel Gregorio is redefining local commerce in the nation’s capital through Black and Forth, a 7,500-square-foot strip mall in Northeast Washington, D.C., that now hosts a bi-weekly farmers market exclusively for Black farmers and artisans—at no cost to vendors.
After recognizing a persistent lack of representation and access for Black producers in traditional markets, Gregorio launched the initiative as a direct investment in community wealth-building. Twice a month, every second and fourth Sunday, the property at 2201 Channing Street, NE is transformed into what Gregorio proudly calls “the blackest farmers market ever.”
“All Black farmers and vendors pop up completely free of charge,” Gregorio said in a video shared by SuccessIsUs on Instagram. “I don’t charge them a dollar to be there. It is my gift to the community.”
A Market Built on Access, Not Competition
The market features farm-raised eggs, fresh produce, baked goods, cold-pressed juices, and other staples typically found at farmers markets—while intentionally avoiding vendor competition. Gregorio says the non-compete model ensures that sellers are not undercutting one another, encouraging collaboration rather than rivalry.
“If one person is selling tomatoes, bring something else,” she explained. “We don’t want people competing in this space.”
Vendors operate both inside and outside the strip mall, and the market often includes free fitness classes and community programming, further reinforcing its role as a neighborhood gathering space.
Cooperative Economics in Practice
The initiative also relies on cooperative economics, with Black-owned businesses supporting one another. Gregorio highlighted support from another Black woman-owned company, 876 Reynolds, which provides tables and chairs for vendors at no cost.
“This is what cooperative economics looks like every single day,” Gregorio said, noting that it goes beyond symbolic references often associated with Kwanzaa and becomes a lived, economic reality.
Encouraging Community-Centered Shopping
Gregorio’s long-term goal is to shift consumer habits and strengthen local food systems. She encourages residents to skip major grocery stores twice a month and instead shop directly from Black farmers and producers.
“Our market will be expanding. The offerings will be expanding,” she said, adding that the initiative is actively seeking produce, dairy, and meat vendors, while already having enough personal care product sellers.
Shoppers can also visit the on-site tea and coffee shop at Black and Forth, which offers tea- and coffee-based mocktails—an added draw during colder months.
As the market continues year-round, Gregorio hopes the model will inspire similar efforts elsewhere.
“I really hope this catches on,” she said. “Pull up, bring a friend, tell a friend, and come by.”
