BOM President Reflects on Five Years of Growth, Future Plans

At PestWorld ’25 in Orlando, Fla., Black Ownership Matters (BOM) held a reception, which provided networking opportunities and was a forum for the organization to raise its visibility. BOM is an organization formed to advance Black economic growth in the pest control industry by promoting ownership, providing business resources, mentorship, financial guidance and employee development. PCT Editor Brad Harbison caught up with BOM President Joe Campbell (ABC Home & Commercial Services) for an update on the group, which celebrated its fifth anniversary in 2025.

Brad Harbison: How was this year’s PestWorld reception and what stood out to you?

Joe Campbell: For me, it was the turnout, which was exceptional and overwhelming. We saw strong interest from people attending PestWorld who had never heard of Black Ownership Matters before, as well as tremendous support from the National Pest Management Association leadership, including providing the space. It allowed members and non-members alike to connect, build relationships and learn more about what we’re trying to accomplish.

BH: Can you talk about how BOM is growing its membership, expanding its network and mentorship efforts?

JC: A few years ago, Jim Steed, one of our founders, personally invested in identifying Black-owned businesses within the industry. That effort resulted in a list of about 300 owners. We now regularly communicate with that group.

One of our key initiatives is the BOM Business Series, held on the second Tuesday of every month. Over the past year, we’ve really formalized this program and even built out a full speaker calendar for 2026. Speakers cover a wide range of topics, including sales and growth, marketing, accounting, banking, grants and grant writing.

Another major focus is mentorship. We receive an overwhelming number of people who want to be mentees, but mentorship is volunteer-based, and we simply don’t yet have enough mentors. One of our key goals this year is to expand that mentor pool so we can strengthen those one-on-one connections.

BH: What kind of impact are you seeing?

JC: We’ve had individuals tell us that before connecting with Black Ownership Matters, they were seriously considering leaving the industry altogether. Through the Business Series and peer connections, — meeting others at similar stages who lacked resources but shared experiences — they decided to keep going and are still in business today. They’ve also become more connected to the broader industry, learning about NPMA and other available resources. In some cases, we’ve helped pull people back from the brink by providing tools, education and community support.

BH: Are there any new programs or partnerships in development to further help close the Black business ownership gap?

JC: Yes. We’re currently developing a relationship with a representative from Chase Bank. Through this partnership, our members who complete a required series of trainings hosted by Chase will qualify for greater financial accessibility through the bank. We’re finalizing the details now, such as how many trainings are required and what the full program looks like, but this is a major step forward.

BH: At NPMA Legislative Day, BOM presents the Wayne Golden Leadership in Action scholarship, which is open to anyone who applies. Why was it established and what are its goals?

JC: Wayne Golden has been a key contributor to the pest management industry for many years and is widely respected. In addition to being a founding member of Black Ownership Matters, Wayne is a PCT/Syngenta Crown Leadership Award and NPMA Pinnacle Award winner. As Jim Steed said, “Wayne has had a lifetime of acting, not just talking.” Wayne has given so much to the industry, particularly through mentorship. Establishing this scholarship in his name was a way to honor that legacy.