Jammin’ to a New Beat

Phillip Rollins owns and operates OffBeat, Mississippi’s only Black-owned record and comic book store. Based in Jackson, OffBeat offers comics, alternative art, vinyl records, and apparel. “I want to create a space that will have a lasting effect on the state of Mississippi, where local Black artists can showcase and sell their work,” says Rollins. Post-Covid, Rollins’ business was suffering due to the economy’s instability and decreased foot traffic in his store, resulting in a decline in sales. A mentor suggested he reach out to Hope Credit Union. Rollins met with a HOPE small business lender and was ultimately approved for a Power of HOPE Small Business Loan, a special program designed for businesses with less than $500,000 in annual revenue that were financially affected by the pandemic. Rollins was able to purchase new inventory and make upgrades to his store. “HOPE understands the needs of small businesses, and to have HOPE backing them, it keeps communities flourishing,” says Rollins.