Open Market

Three business and community scenes: two women smiling in front of a storefront, mannequins and a market display inside a mall, and two women standing behind a jewelry table with handmade accessories.

A lifestyle marketplace championing emerging BIPOC brands and the cultures that shape them.

Our driving mission: Close. Curate. Cultivate

Two people at an outdoor market stall, one seated behind a table of handmade jewelry while the other looks at items.

Close

We work to close the gap by implementing comprehensive strategies that advance financial and technological empowerment. Through accessible tools, education, and resources, we help entrepreneurs strengthen their foundations, scale sustainably, and compete confidently in an evolving marketplace.

Two women standing together and smiling while looking at a smartphone.

Curate

We curate experiences that celebrate culture, creativity, and excellence. From fashion and beauty to food and art, our thoughtfully designed events showcase the diversity and innovation of BIPOC- and POC-owned businesses, giving them the visibility and recognition they deserve.

Three women holding hands and dancing playfully against a light background.

Cultivate

We cultivate community as the cornerstone of our mission. By fostering authentic connections, encouraging collaboration, and promoting mutual understanding, we contribute to a more equitable and representative society—one where entrepreneurs and consumers grow, thrive, and succeed together.

Why We Do It

Person standing behind a table of handmade jewelry

We do this because we believe in the power of community, creativity, and culture. We believe that small businesses—especially those built by BIPOC founders—deserve to be seen, celebrated, and supported in meaningful ways. Every product tells a story, every maker carries a legacy, and every connection strengthens the fabric of our shared future.

Our work is fueled by joy. Joy in discovery. Joy in representation. Joy in creating spaces where people feel welcomed, inspired, and connected. We’re here to uplift the makers who pour their hearts into their craft and to give shoppers a place where their purchases have purpose.

We do it because we know that when underrepresented entrepreneurs thrive, entire communities thrive. We’re building an ecosystem where creativity is honored, culture is centered, and economic opportunity is accessible. This is more than retail—it’s a movement rooted in possibility, empowerment, and collective growth.

And we’re just getting started.

Our Founder

Photo of Imani the founder of open market

Imani Schectman

Entrepreneur, Healer, Artist, Educator

Imani Schectman is a community builder, tech founder, and educator driven by a deep passion for connection and collective empowerment. With a profound belief in the transformative power of collaboration, Imani create spaces where people from diverse backgrounds can celebrate culture, foster mutual understanding, and mobilize toward a more just and inclusive world.

Guided by the pillars of diversity, equity, inclusion, sustainability, and justice, she founded Open Market—an innovative e-commerce platform designed to elevate brands led by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC). Open Market bridges both the technical and financial divide that often hinders BIPOC and POC entrepreneurs, offering access to professional services, capital, and a thriving digital marketplace.

By expanding reach beyond geographic limitations, Open Market empowers underrepresented founders to scale their businesses, amplify their stories, and participate in a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem rooted in equity and opportunity.

Our Founding Vendors

Get Involved...

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Customers

Get ready to embark on an exciting shopping journey that not only supports diversity and inclusion but also allows you to explore unique and innovative products. Make a positive change and find your new go-to brands!

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Partners

We’re about making a positive difference in the world and looking for organizations who believe in what we’re doing. Be a part of our success story.

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Brands

Are you a BIPOC small business owner looking to take your business to new heights? Our marketplace is the perfect platform to showcase your talents, connect with customers, share your story, and be a part of a vibrant entrepreneurial community

Join Us!!!

hello@weareopenmarket.com

@weareopenmarket

Photography by Pointedspaces & El Films 

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