According to Black News, Paul Ford, the owner of Big Red’s Hot Sauce, was nominated and chosen to be part of the Forbes Next 1000 list.
The list was created to give credit to entrepreneurs who have shown resilience and persevered amid adversity.
The outlet reported that Ford was selected by an A-list panel of judges, including Russell Wilson, Ciara, Ayesha Curry, Carla Harris, Asahi Pompey, Reid Hoffman, Alex Rodrigues, and others.
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Ford and his wife, Tasia, both own the company and are known for their unique, savory hot sauces that have captured the hearts and satisfied the bellies of America. The couple has created over 11 different sauces and is expanding to create more delicious flavors for sauce lovers.
Last year, the pair were set to go on a 12-state “Flavor Tour,” which would have featured them at hot sauces competitions and expositions.
The tour would have garnered attention for Big Red’s Hot Sauce in states like North Carolina, California, New York, Oregon, and New Mexico, among many others.
The tour was going to be Big Red’s Hot Sauce’s big break. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and the primarily customer-facing business could not pursue their business ventures.
However, Ford used his entrepreneurial skills and creativity to help save his business and be resourceful. The Black business owner used his knowledge, manufacturing skills, and equipment to generate other revenue.
Ford was able to save up some cash which he then flipped into an investment in marketing to help increase online orders. The company drew the attention of significant business entrepreneurs such as hip-hop mogul Master P. and Ford even starred on Master P Reviews. The artist sang high praises for his flavorful sauces, specifically the Blackberry Rum Smother sauce and his Sweet and Spicy Prickly Pear Almonds.
Since then, Ford has been working around the clock to push his business to new heights.
