Lights, Camera, Impact: Champion Projects Media’s Creative Journey
Champion Projects Media, a professional video production service based in Manhattan, Kansas, specializes in helping brands tell their stories through high-quality video content. Led by founder Marlin Watson, the team provides services ranging from commercials and client testimonials to drone photography and social media content. Their commitment to creativity and technical excellence ensures clients receive engaging and impactful videos tailored to their needs.
Name one accomplishment in your business this far that you are proud of.
“I am incredibly proud to have built a sustainable business that has allowed me to work full-time doing what I love for over a year. This accomplishment reflects not only my dedication and hard work but also the trust and support of my clients. It’s a testament to the value my business brings to the community and the solid foundation I’ve worked to establish for future growth.”
Since receiving the Circle of Community Grant how have the grant funds assisted you in your business growth?
“Before receiving the Circle of Community Grant, managing the vast amounts of data from my video shoots was becoming a significant challenge. My existing storage solutions were not only limited but also posed risks to the security and accessibility of my clients’ data. The grant allowed me to invest in a NAS storage system, which has been transformative for my business. This system not only expanded my storage capacity but also provided a reliable safeguard for my clients’ valuable content. It has given me peace of mind and the ability to scale my operations confidently.”
How has BEFH supported you in your entrepreneurial journey thus far?
“BEFH has been an invaluable partner in my entrepreneurial journey, providing support in multiple ways. They have hired my production company to capture their events, document the stories of their members, and showcase the impactful projects they are working on. This has not only given my business consistent opportunities but also aligned my work with a meaningful mission. Additionally, BEFH has helped me grow my network by facilitating connections within the organization and beyond. Their promotion of my business on social media through engagement with my content, and inclusion in their online directory has significantly increased my visibility and credibility. Their support has been instrumental in helping my business thrive.”
Describe the importance of having a business community like BEFH.
“BEFH is an essential resource because it provides a powerful platform for Black business owners to have their voices heard and their unique challenges addressed. Their influence within the community not only amplifies our concerns but also creates opportunities for growth and visibility. BEFH’s deep understanding of the specific hardships and barriers that Black entrepreneurs face allows them to offer tailored support that truly makes a difference. Beyond this, BEFH fosters a sense of belonging by connecting Black business owners with peers who share similar experiences. This sense of community inspires collaboration, mutual growth, and empowerment, creating a ripple effect of positive change within the BEFH community.”
Please describe a BEFH event that has helped you in your business? (ie. networking opportunities, training, class, event, coaching session, learning something you didn't know, a feeling of community or safe space etc.)
“One BEFH event that significantly helped my business was the Gala. While it was primarily a community celebration, it became an incredible opportunity for me to showcase my full production setup in front of hundreds of attendees while documenting the event. Many people who were familiar with my business but had never seen me in action got to experience the professionalism and effort I put into my work firsthand. This visibility sparked several conversations about my services, allowing me to share my business with a broader audience and make valuable connections. Additionally, being recognized as a grantee at the event was a proud moment that helped me stand out and added credibility to my business.”
Has BEFH referred business to you this year? If so, please mention some of those opportunities that BEFH has provided thus far.
“BEFH has provided me with invaluable opportunities throughout the year, contracting my production company to document most of their events and collaborate on projects that showcase their members. These opportunities have been incredibly rewarding, not only for the financial support they bring but also for the knowledge and insights I gain from participating in their events. It’s a truly symbiotic relationship. While my production services help amplify the organization’s impact and tell their story, the work also helps my business grow through exposure, networking, and meaningful connections. BEFH’s ongoing support has been instrumental in my journey, and I’m deeply grateful for the mutually beneficial partnership we’ve cultivated.”
“One last thing I’d like to add is that not every business purchase feels glamorous. The storage drives I bought with the grant was absolutely essential, but let’s be honest, it’s not as thrilling as unboxing a shiny new camera or lens. That said, grants like this turn those ‘not-so-exciting’ purchases into wins. Instead of feeling like a financial setback, they feel like a practical step forward for my business, because, where I store my data can be a superhero when it comes to keeping my clients’ data safe!”
