Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon – The Village Market
Dr. Lakeysha Hallmon, “Dr. Key,” is a mission-forward visionary celebrated for developing an economic vehicle that empowers the Black community through collective wealth. Since founding The Village Market in 2016, she has served over 1,440 businesses and facilitated $8.3 million in direct sales to Black-owned enterprises. Her innovative “Village Model” integrates grants, mentorship, technical assistance, and a retail platform, setting a new standard for Black-owned business success. Dr. Key’s mantra, “Support is A Verb,” propels businesses from Atlanta to the Bahamas, turning big ideas into big profits. She has been recognized by esteemed publications such as Forbes, Inc. Magazine. Essence, Black Enterprise, CNN/HLN, the Today Show, and more. A sought-after speaker, she has graced the stages at prominent events hosted by organizations like the Aspen Global Inclusive Growth Summit, Bloomberg, AD Color, Goodwill of America, and Clark Atlanta University, as well as conferences such as the National Urban League & Hope Global Forum. Her accolades include induction into the 40 Under 40 Society at Tougaloo College,recognition by the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Atlanta Business League, Georgia Trend’s Most Successful Businesses, and being listed among The Root 100 and the inaugural Forbes 50 Champions. Appointed by Atlanta Mayor, Andre Dickens, to serve on the Women’s Advisory Council, served on the ethics and procurement committee for the City of Atlanta 61st Mayor transition team, and as a board member for Invest Atlanta, Dr. Hallmon continues to advocate for equitable opportunities within the business landscape. Dr. Hallmon serves on the Board of Trustees for Tougaloo College. Dr. Hallmon is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc.