Brandon M Phillips: Innovator, Mentor, and Architect of Change

Brandon Phillips is more than an entrepreneur—he’s a visionary force driving change, building communities, and inspiring countless lives. As the founder of La Chow, Baltimore’s premier culinary incubator and event space, and FutureThink Hub, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals and solving critical social challenges, Brandon’s work exemplifies the intersection of business innovation and community impact. Over two decades of calling Baltimore home, Brandon has transformed challenges into opportunities and created spaces where people thrive.

His entrepreneurial spirit was evident from the start. While still a freshman at Morgan State University, Brandon launched his first LLC, forging a partnership with Toshiba to sell computers to the university’s honors department. This bold venture showcased his natural ability to seize opportunities and laid the groundwork for a career defined by bold ideas and impactful action. He earned a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from Morgan State and later a Master’s in Business Management with a concentration in Finance from the University of Maryland Global Campus, preparing him to tackle both business and societal challenges with expertise.

Through La Chow, Brandon revitalized an abandoned university campus, transforming it into a dynamic hub where food entrepreneurs can flourish. La Chow is more than a culinary workspace—it’s a launchpad for small businesses, equipped with cutting-edge kitchens, mentorship, and resources designed to help entrepreneurs succeed. Under Brandon’s leadership, La Chow has become a cornerstone of Baltimore’s culinary scene, fostering innovation, creativity, and community growth.

With FutureThink Hub, Brandon expanded his mission to tackle broader social challenges. The nonprofit addresses critical issues like food insecurity, youth reentry, and mental health by providing education, resources, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. FutureThink Hub isn’t just about solving problems—it’s about building sustainable solutions that empower communities. Whether it’s hosting tech workshops, mentoring young people, or organizing large-scale food giveaways, the Hub reflects Brandon’s commitment to making a tangible, lasting difference.

In 2024, Brandon partnered with Tanya Whitaker, forming a powerhouse duo in philanthropy. Together, they set—and exceeded—the ambitious goal of blessing 10,000 children with toys for Christmas. They also hosted unforgettable events like the Annual Turkey Feast, where gourmet Thanksgiving dinners prepared by renowned chefs were served to families in need. Their efforts were transformative, with over 25,000 people served, more than 6 million pounds of food distributed, and $18 million worth of groceries donated across Maryland, DC, and Virginia in just their first year of partnership. Their collaboration is a testament to what’s possible when shared vision and relentless action come together.

Brandon Phillips is not just a leader; he’s a movement. His work is a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and an unyielding commitment to building a brighter future. Whether he’s transforming spaces, mentoring the next generation of leaders, or speaking on a panel, Brandon inspires everyone he meets to dream bigger and act bolder.

When you meet Brandon, you’ll encounter someone whose energy, compassion, and vision are contagious. He doesn’t just dream of change—he creates it. Brandon Phillips is the person who will leave you believing not only in his potential but in your own. His story is an invitation to join a journey that is shaping communities, rewriting narratives, and proving that the future truly is what we make of it.