Chuku’s has received $10,000 from the pop star as part of her BeyGOOD initiative supporting Black-owned businesses, reports Olivia Opara

A Tottenham restaurant has become one of ten small businesses in London to be awarded a $10,000 grant by Beyoncé.

Chuku’s, a Nigerian tapas restaurant, has received $10,000 from Beyoncé, following her five-day shows at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Founders Emeka and Ifeyinwa Fredrick were announced as recipients at the Black Parade Route Luncheon at the Four Seasons Hotel, where Matthew Knowles, father of Beyoncé and former manager of Destiny’s Child, gave a talk.

Emeka said: “This grant couldn’t be more welcome. 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.”

Ifeyinwa added: “I still can’t quite believe that Beyoncé has backed our restaurant – it feels a bit surreal. We’d already felt her impact when she was in town and concert-goers chose Chuku’s for their pre-gig meal, but this is a whole other level.”

The grant is part of the singer’s BeyGOOD charity’s ‘Black Parade Route’ $1million pledge – which aims to celebrate people, communities, and small businesses impacted by economic inequities by providing relief grant opportunities and business support services offered by global partners to aid in business sustainability.

The fund pledge will support small businesses in cities including London, Chicago, Atlanta, and New Orleans. Chuku’s was selected as a winner from 500 London applicants.

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