About Us
BAMWM, a 501c6 nonprofit, is an independent Entrepreneurial Support Organization (ESO) and Community Development Entity dedicated to the economic vitality and quality of life in the Broadway and Missouri Streets area of West Memphis, Arkansas. We support local businesses through grants, programming, advocacy, and community development initiatives.
Mission Statement
To cultivate a dynamic and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem in West Memphis, Arkansas, and across the Mid-South and greater Arkansas Delta region by supporting startups, entrepreneurs, and small businesses through focused initiatives in Culture, Talent Development, Community Engagement, and Capital Access.
Vision Statement
To be the preeminent force driving economic revitalization and sustainable growth in the Arkansas Delta, establishing the Broadway and Missouri corridor as a thriving hub of innovation and opportunity where every entrepreneur has the resources and support necessary to succeed.
Our Board
Hudson Hallum, president
Kendra Phillips, secretary
Dr. Tywanna Smith, treasurer
Chastity Johnston
Monte Hodges
Darrell Anthony
Pam Capps
Patricia Lark
Rob Mitchell
Hannah Boothe Roark
Executive Director
Raymond Whiteside, PCED
2026-29 Strategic Plan
What we DO
Our Focus
Culture
We leverage our community’s unique identity, enhancing quality of life, and implementing inclusive practices to ensure that economic growth benefits all residents and attracts diverse populations.
Community Engagement
We strive for authentic, transparent processes that involve all stakeholders, especially historically marginalized groups. The goal is to build local ownership, leverage community assets, and ensure broad public buy-in for economic development initiatives.
Talent Development
Moving beyond traditional job training to focus on building sustainable workforce pipelines. We focus on the importance of aligning educational systems with employer needs, fostering lifelong learning, and prioritizing equitable strategies to attract, retain, and upskill a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Capital Access
Capital access as a critical hurdle for business growth and equitable development. We look for practical strategies for identifying financing gaps and connecting entrepreneurs, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, with necessary funding sources like loans, grants, and venture capital, fostering a more inclusive local economy.