Green spaces, Black entrepreneurs: transforming Chicago’s historically marginalized neighborhoods

The leisure research details the many physical, psychological, and social benefits associated with urban green spaces. Less attention has been placed on the economic benefits individuals can experience while being involved in these projects. An example of this includes the case of African American entrepreneurs in the context of urban greening projects. The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of African American entrepreneurs in the context of greening projects. Specifically, the research questions that guided this study were: (1) What motivates African American entrepreneurs to engage in urban greening projects such as community gardening?; (2) What challenges do African American entrepreneurs face in creating and sustaining community gardens?; (3) How do African American entrepreneurs describe the impacts of their work on their communities?; and (4) What systems of support do African American entrepreneurs need to sustain their work? This exploratory qualitative study involved interviews with four African American entrepreneurs. Using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis and Lincoln and Guba’s trustworthiness criteria, findings revealed that motivations included environmental stewardship, community connectedness, environmental education, environmental preservation for future generations, and lived disparities. Challenges included limited funding, infrastructure, and systemic racism, while impacts included economic, health, and spiritual benefits. Participants emphasized the need for greater resources, government support, and peer networks.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Recreation, Sport, and Tourism

Grantor

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2025

Author dc:creator

• Hudson, Jeffrey

Contributors dc:contributor

• Fernandez, Mariela
• Stodolska, Monika
• Walker, Rebecca

• Entrepreneurs
• environmental
• green space
• gardening
• Black
• African American
• urban farm

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2025 Jeffrey Hudson

Language dc:language

en

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/132460

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/132460