Why This Matters – Black Women
This story matters because it highlights the often-overlooked leadership of Black women who build economic power while remaining deeply rooted in service. Nicole Linton’s work reflects a long tradition of Black women creating pathways to stability, opportunity, and collective uplift—often while navigating structural barriers in business, philanthropy, and leadership. Her ability to scale a family-owned brand into a multimillion-dollar enterprise while sustaining two decades of consistent community investment challenges narrow narratives about success and reinforces the essential role Black women play in strengthening local economies and families.
Equally significant is the legacy impact of Nicole’s mentorship and access-driven approach. By demystifying the consumer packaged goods industry, supporting young women, and reinvesting profits into food security and education, she is helping to close generational gaps in knowledge and opportunity. Her leadership models accountability, transparency, and collective growth—values that extend beyond individual achievement and contribute to long-term community resilience. Stories like this affirm that when Black women lead with purpose, the results benefit entire ecosystems for years to come.
Original Article
Black Woman CEO of Million Dollar Brand Celebrates 20 Years of Community Service and Leadership
Sponsored Content Press Release
Nicole Linton, Founder of Nicobi Cares
Nicole Linton, CEO of Nicobi Cares and Co-Founder of Nicobi Foods, is celebrating 20 years of committed community service, mentorship, and steady leadership. Her Black family-owned brand sells thousands of bottles of sauces and seasonings each month, and generates millions each year in revenue. However, her philanthropy focuses on care, access, and opportunity, and continues to positively shape families, local organizations, and entrepreneurs across Pennsylvania.
Over the past two decades, Nicole has supported countless individuals through food access initiatives, youth empowerment programs, and hands-on mentorship. She has also played a key role in connecting small businesses within the CPG (consumer packaged goods) community, helping Nicobi Foods achieve a #2 national ranking on RangeMe as one of the fastest-growing food and beverage brands — a reflection of meaningful networking and collaboration throughout the industry.
Nicole’s experience and transparency in the CPG space led to her selection as a Supplier Educator for Walmart Open Call 2025, where she provided guidance to emerging suppliers preparing to work with Walmart. Through her mentorship platform, “No Gatekeepers Allowed,” she continues to help founders understand the realities of retail and the preparation required for long-term success.
Nicole is also the author of Inspira Girl, an empowerment book for young women. The book is offered free to organizations serving youth, and all sales directly support Nicobi Cares’ community programs.
As CEO of Nicobi Cares, Nicole leads impactful collaborations, including:
• Ongoing food giveaways and community meal donations across the region
• Partnerships with groups such as FLOW For the Love of Women in Harrisburg, supporting women and families
• Community and student initiatives with Empire Beauty School – Harrisburg, where she serves on the Advisory Board
• Book bag drives, food drives, and outreach events alongside The GIANT Company’s EMPOWER initiative — with Nicobi Foods products now sold in every GIANT location
Nicole also provides pro bono notary services to community members and works with a dedicated volunteer network, the Care Team Caregivers, to deliver meals, hygiene kits, and wellness resources to families in need.
Reflecting on her milestone, Nicole shared, “Service has always been at the center of everything I do. If we can encourage young women, support families, and help small businesses grow, then we’re moving the community forward together.”
Nicole’s 20-year legacy continues to demonstrate the heart and purpose behind Nicobi Cares: showing up, supporting others, and creating opportunities wherever possible.
Visit the official website at NicobiFoods.com
