BuzzologySurveys Companies to Support in 2008″

BuzzologySurveys is always on the hunt for up-and-coming companies that appeal to the urban demographic. Over the past several months we’ve come across several that are generating some much deserved hype and have selected a few you should keep on your radar screen. Check out our top five, all which are looking for a breakout year in 2008:

Beauty Genesis International (BGi):
Johnathan Carthon had faith that an idea of infusing natural ingredients into hair care products would prove to be successful and leveraged his background at L’Oreal USA to start his own company. His SIMPLY HEALTHY HAIR products, with a blend of grapeseed oil, Vitamin E and other nutrients, are designed to nourish and strengthen damaged, overworked tresses. The black hair care line also inked an exclusive deal with Walgreens this November to bring its products to over 400 drugstores nationwide. Beauty-Genesis.com (www.beauty-genesis.com)

Korus Wines:
Kedar Massenburg, the former Motown CEO who coined the term “neo-soul” with artists like Erykah Badu and D’Angelo, brought a line of French wines to market earlier this year, with an eye on marketing to urban consumers. In partnership with EuroGateWines, K’orus introduced a Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and a Merlot that was named one of Wine Spectator Magazine’s “Daily Picks” with an 85 rating. Massenburg joins a select few African American vintners helping to spread an appreciation of wine to an under tapped market, all for under $15 a pop. Koruswine.com (www.Koruswine.com)

Nerjyzed Entertainment
This African American owned digital media company made a splash earlier this year after releasing its first ever video game, “Black College Football Xperience.” Smart move as the gaming industry brought in an estimated $31.6 billion in 2006. Users can pit some of their favorite HBCU teams against one another, such as Virginia State versus Norfolk State’s famed Labor Day Classic, and relive some historic football rivalries. And with an upcoming DVD entitled Historically Black that discusses the importance of HBCUs set for release in February, this company is gearing up to make an impact not only in the global gaming market but also the traditional media realm. Nerjyzed.com (www.Nerjyzed.com)

Unified Soul:
After noticing the proliferation of negative messages youth were wearing on their T-shirts, Cheriss May, visual journalist and adjunct professor at Howard University, decided to launch her own line of clothing that offers much needed affirmations for the wearer. The colorfully designed tees, tanks and hoodies with slogans such as “HBCU Soul,” “I Love Who I Am,” “Sun Kissed Sista” and “LovePeaceSoul” have been worn by the likes of Terrance J of BET’s 106 & Park. You can find her line in specialty stores like Kulture Shop in Philadelphia, Fly Betty Boutique in DC, or online. Lovewhoiam.com (www.Lovewhoiam.com)

Youngblood Timepieces:
Paul Youngblood and Patrick Martin joined forces in 2004 to create a high-end watch collection for the sophisticated urban buyer. The timepieces, which have adorned the arms of celebs such as Will Smith and Paula Abdul, offer an expensive look at moderate prices ($79–$259.) Their newest line, named after major airports around the world, debuted in November with much fanfare at Macy’s South with expansion plans in the works. Ybtimepieces.com (http://www.Ybtimepieces.com)

These black owned ventures are making the most of their opportunities and seeking to tap into the estimated $910 billion African Americans are expected to spend in 2008. Their advice to other budding entrepreneurs looking to do the same? May explains, “Success doesn’t usually happen overnight. I heard Russell Simmons say that it took him nine years to see a profit for Phat Farm . . . nine years! So stay focused, consistent and don’t give up, even when others may give up on you.”

About BuzzologySurveys
BuzzologySurveys.com is an African American owned consumer marketing and media group based outside of Seattle. Birthed in January 2006, our company’s mission is to inform, engage and revolutionize the way the world sees us. Whether celebrating our culture or creating strategic connections that empower and elevate, BZS is striving to build a leading brand synonymous with the urban consumer.

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