The BeyGood Foundation gifted a Nigerian restaurant in North London with a $10k grant during its, “The Black Parade Small Business Impact Luncheon.” Chuku’s was among the ten winners to receive a grant.
The popular restaurant posted a video showing when they learned they were one of the winners.
“The moment @beyonce awarded us $10,000,” Chuku’s wrote in a caption. “THANK YOU Beyonce & the team BeyGOOD for investing in our restaurant dream!”
Chuku’s co-founder, Emeka Frederick, say the grant couldn’t come at a better time.
“Chuku’s, like other restaurants that don’t have a financial reserve, has been battered by lockdowns and the cost of living crisis. Every day, we’re fighting to stay open to make it to our fourth birthday. This money will make that fight a little easier and allow us to continue celebrating Nigerian culture on Tottenham’s High Road for the time being,” said Frederick.
The luncheon was held at the Four Seasons in Tower Hill, where over 100 entrepreneurs gathered at the event with the chance to win $100,000 in prizes. Over 400 applicants applied. The foundation created the luncheon to “celebrate people, communities, and small businesses impacted by economic inequities worldwide.” Beyoncé committed $1 million to support those businesses.
Chuku’s: Nigerian Tapas
Chuku’s is a Nigerian tapas restaurant famous for its unique dishes. The owners opened the restaurant’s doors in 2020. Despite building a massive following since opening the establishment has faced many challenges. That have included financial issues during the pandemic and rising energy bills.
According to MyLondon, the owners launched a challenge to get 600 bookings in six weeks last year. They managed to receive 801. The support poured in from from A-listers, athletes, and everyday people in the community.
“From day one of the campaign, support came in thick and fast. We are so grateful that we can keep on celebrating the best of Nigerian cuisine and culture for now. But don’t forget that we’re here 52 weeks of the year – let’s keep this energy going,” Frederick told MyLondon.
The Beyoncé effect didn’t just stop with the grant. Due to the Chuku’s being located close to Tottenham Hotspur’s stadium where Beyoncé performed, many concertgoers paid the establishment a visit further driving revenue.