Investing in Memphis’ Future; Cxffeeblack and BVO
Last night, Mud Island Park came alive with an extraordinary Wefunder event that showcased the future of innovation and community in Memphis. Hosted by the dynamic teams behind Cxffeeblack and Baron Von Opperbean (BVO), the evening was a perfect blend of visionary presentations, coffee, and cocktails that brought attendees together for an experience to remember.
Bartholomew Jones of Cxoffeeblack.
The event’s venue, set against the scenic backdrop of Mud Island, buzzed with excitement as guests sipped on drinks thoughtfully crafted by Cxffeeblack. Known for its dedication to reclaiming coffee’s African roots, Cxffeeblack brought their signature approach to the event, providing a taste of their award-winning brews. Attendees not only enjoyed their coffee but gained insight into how the brand, founded by Bartholomew Jones and Renata Henderson, is impacting the community through initiatives like the Anti-Gentrification Cxffee Club and the Barista Exchange Program.
On the other side of the excitement was BVO, an immersive playground experience set to transform Mud Island’s historic Mississippi River Museum site. With a vision that blends the adventurous spirit of Doctor Who with the treasure-hunting thrill of Indiana Jones, BVO promises an interactive, science-driven multiverse where visitors can explore, discover, and choose their adventure. The concept left attendees intrigued and eager to be a part of its development.
Both Cxffeeblack and BVO are raising capital for their expansions through Wefunder, inviting community members to invest in their promising futures. This unique opportunity allows anyone passionate about shaping Memphis’ landscape to become a stakeholder and support these groundbreaking projects. The evening offered guests the chance to learn about the growth and future plans of both businesses while connecting over shared drinks and vision.
As the night unfolded, the enthusiasm was palpable, with conversations buzzing around future investment opportunities and the transformative potential these ventures hold for Memphis. The event was a testament to the city’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and underscored the importance of community-driven growth.
From the innovative storytelling of Baron Von Opperbean to Cxffeeblack’s trailblazing efforts in coffee and cultural equity, the event wasn’t just an invitation to invest but an open call to join a movement. For those who attended, it was more than a night out; it was a glimpse into the future of Memphis, fueled by community, creativity, and collaboration.
The teams thanked everyone who came out on a stormy night to break in the Baron’s new Mud Island digs, with a special thanks to fellow Wefunders Cxffeeblack who helped re-activate the River Room as BVO’s new lounge! “We led the first two public tours of the site and we were bowled over by everyone’s enthusiasm and great questions and suggestions. This isn’t just our project… this is for the community and by the community.” said BVO’s Marvin Stockwell. Wefunders Read Ezell (who drove down from Nashville) said, “this is the kind of enthusiam that we like to see in Wefunder projects.”
Read more about each of these businesses and their investment terms here:
CxffeeBlack - a local coffee brand recently named Most Notable Roaster of the Year by Spruge Media.
Baron Von Opperbean - an immersive playground experience planned for the former sight of the Mississippi River Museum.
Thanks to Jamie Harmon for covering the event! All photos ©Jamie Harmon
