Interview With Tier Founder: Nigeria Ealey

What inspired you to start your own business? 

NE: Since a child, I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit. I found love in art, design, fashion, production, and passion in just creating my own. I always felt like I had a lot to offer the world and the only way to realize it was through a lens of my own. 


How do you hope to contribute to the advancement of black entrepreneurship in your industry? 

NE: I don’t hope to contribute, I am contributing by taking the risk to build a successful business and legacy that will inspire and create opportunities for others in my community and industry. 


What advice do you have for other black individuals looking to start their own businesses? 

NE: No matter what you do, you must love your craft and show passion in your process and progress.   


If someone is new to your brand, what product would you suggest? 

NE:  Our TIÉRⓇ Essentials are easily the perfect sweatsuits for Adults & Kids.


What are other black owned businesses that you are currently inspired by?

NE: I’m always inspired by the creativity and community other black owned brands are forging — Brands like Barriers, NomÄ, The Crate, Topicals, UNWRP, Lit BKLYN, Visionary Society, JoeFreshGoods, Brandon Blackwood, Daily Paper, P.96, Envy . . . I can give a whole directory.  


How can large organizations and companies support Black businesses and entrepreneurs? 

NE: Funding, Resources, Equity and providing spaces to execute our ideas and scale our businesses. 


How can black owned businesses and entrepreneurs stand out in their field of work? 

NE: I strongly believe community building and prioritizing brand experience is the strongest pillars in standing out and achieving success. People will always remember feeling over product.