Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: What is the mission of The Global Food and Drink Initiative?
Answer: The Global Food and Drink Initiative (GFDI) was founded in 2020 to expand the work that began in 2009 with Cuisine Noir. The mission of GFDI is to celebrate food cultures and preserve food histories of the African diaspora through its impact pillars of storytelling, education and advocacy. It is important that as Black people, we lead the narratives about our contributions and most importantly connect with one another and document loudly so that the past and present are always known for future generations.
Question #2: Who founded GFDI and why?
Answer: Founder Sheree Williams, who is the executive director, wanted to create an organization that not only empowered their work as Black food media but also helped to create more spaces to have conversations and preserve the contributions of Black people to the culinary world. Given the continuous efforts to erase Black history (that includes Black food history) from American History, she felt it is was important to create an organization that informs, educates and advocates.
Question #3: How is the organization funded?
Answer: The Global Food and Drink Initiative is funded in a variety of ways to carry out its work. The first is through donations from our donors who understand our mission and the importance of storytelling and education of Black food history. Through its media properties, it also receives advertising, affiliate and sponsorship revenue. Lastly, as a 501(c)3 nonprofit, the organization is eligible to apply for and receive grants, as well as private and corporate donations.
Question #4: How does The Global Food and Drink Initiative carry out its mission and work?
Answer: The Global Food and Initiative will center its work around education courses and products available globally. In addition, it owns two media properties that share narratives, inform and further connect the African Diaspora. Cuisine Noir which launched on September 1, 2009, is the country and world’s first Black culinary lifestyle media outlet of its kind that is available digitally year round and yearly in print. Diaspora Food Stories podcast, launched July 1, 2022 to expand conversations with industry trailblazers, influences and superstars throughout the African Diaspora. GFDI also engages in special programs, speaking engagements and collaborations.
Question #5: Are donations tax-deductible?
Answer: Yes, all donations made to The Global Food and Drink Initiative are 100% tax-deductible to the full extent allowed by law. Our tax ID is 85-3525143. We are tax-exempt on both the federal and state level.
Question #6: What other ways can people support The Global Food and Drink Initiative, its media properties and work?
Answer: We appreciate financial support such as individual and corporate donations as well as donations through third parties programs. We accept donations all year long that can be made one-time or as a monthly donation.
Individuals and organizations can also support GFDI by sharing our work with others online and through social media to spread the word and building awareness about our organization and the work we are championing.
