Economic development thrives when small businesses have the support they need to grow and succeed. EDGE’s Inner City Economic Development (ICED) Loan program is designed to help entrepreneurs revitalize spaces, create jobs, and contribute to the vibrancy of Memphis neighborhoods. One of the latest recipients of this initiative is Café Noir, a unique bookstore-café that recently opened its first brick-and-mortar location in Downtown Memphis’ Edge District.
Founded by Jasmine Settles in 2021, Café Noir launched as a digital bookstore with a mission to highlight the works of underrepresented authors and foster a love of literature in the community. Recognizing a need for more inclusive literary spaces in Memphis, Settles set out to create a physical location where books, coffee, and conversation could come together in an inviting and engaging atmosphere.
With the help of a $25,000 ICED Loan from EDGE, Café Noir is transforming a 1,960-square-foot space at 635 Madison Avenue into Memphis’ first Black-owned bookstore-café combination. The funds will help cover essential interior and exterior improvements, including a full buildout to create a welcoming, functional environment that facilitates both retail and hospitality services.
Filling a market gap in the Edge District
Beyond its focus on literature, Café Noir is poised to serve as a key gathering space in the Edge District, an area that currently lacks a daily coffee shop offering specialty brews and breakfast options. The café will provide a new destination for residents, professionals, and visitors seeking high-quality coffee, locally sourced ingredients, and a thoughtfully curated book selection.
As the Edge District continues to experience revitalization, businesses like Café Noir play a vital role in enhancing neighborhood appeal and fostering economic activity. The café will repurpose an underutilized commercial property and drive foot traffic and commerce in the surrounding area.
Economic and community impact
Through EDGE’s ICED Loan program, Café Noir is also investing in workforce development and economic empowerment. The café will create employment opportunities for baristas and support staff, helping to generate new jobs for local residents. Additionally, Café Noir plans to offer specialized youth training programs, equipping the next generation with valuable skills in business operations, customer service, and entrepreneurship.
Further reinforcing its commitment to community engagement, Café Noir will introduce a membership program, connecting patrons with exclusive store events, new book releases, and author discussions. The space will also serve as a venue for literary events, book signings, and cultural programming, strengthening Memphis’ artistic and intellectual landscape.
Aiding small business growth
The ICED Loan Program is designed to aid small businesses in underserved areas, providing financial resources to revitalize commercial corridors and create lasting economic benefits. These forgivable loans help cover capital improvements, façade renovations, and other essential upgrades that enable businesses to thrive while enhancing the surrounding neighborhood.
By awarding $25,000 in funding to Café Noir, EDGE is reaffirming its commitment to supporting small businesses that contribute to Memphis’ long-term economic vitality. Programs like ICED help ensure that locally owned businesses have the infrastructure and resources necessary to grow, while also encouraging commercial investment and urban renewal.
A new chapter for Memphis
As Café Noir prepares to open its doors, it represents the potential of entrepreneurship, economic development, and community investment. Thanks to the ICED Loan program, this business will play a meaningful role in Memphis’ continued growth, offering a space for literature, connection, and economic opportunity.
In a city as historically rich and culturally diverse as Memphis, the opening of Café Noir marks a meaningful step forward as a celebration of literature, a tribute to representation, and a testament to what happens when economic development is paired with purpose.