Despite an NYC annual budget of $115 billion, and over $30 billion for the Department of Education (DOE), Black-owned companies secure less than 1% of city contracts. This is more than a disparity—it’s a systemic failure restricting economic chances in communities of color.
But in East New York, a Black-owned enterprise is charting new territory and setting a higher bar for success.
Community Values at Heart
Fusion East Restaurant, founded by lifelong East New Yorker Andrew Walcott, a Thomas Jefferson High alumnus, veteran, CPA, and lawyer, is much more than just a Caribbean and soul food restaurant. It’s a social mission built to serve working families with honesty, affordability, and taste. Walcott launched Fusion East to fulfill one goal: “real meals at real prices.” October 2025 will mark ten years of Fusion East.
Rather than a centralized DOE contract, Fusion East became a certified Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprise (MWBE), letting individual schools select them for food service.
School Choice Across the Boroughs
Holding MWBE status, Fusion East gives schools all over Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan, and Queens the choice to use their catering for staff meals, lunches, and events. Their $5 Real Meal, with all the essential nutrition and flavor, has become a familiar option in NYC schools. Across 1,600+ schools and nearly 1 million students, Fusion East’s expansion testifies to sizable interest in healthy, affordable, and culturally rich meals.
Securing $745,000 in DOE orders last year still equals just 0.0025% of DOE’s massive budget, a stark reminder of the equity gap. To truly move forward, NYC must enable thousands more vendors like Fusion East.
Deep Brooklyn Connections, Wide Influence
Fusion East’s uniqueness isn’t only its menu but the principles driving it. Walcott’s deep investment in East New York, as an ex-board member and local advocate, informs every aspect of the business.
He hosts student visits to show what entrepreneurship looks like up close, recently encouraging students at his former middle school with his experience and journey.
Andrew Walcott Founder of Fusion East Restaurant talks to students at his former school PS 273
Adapting With A Child-Centered Model
Not just caterers, Fusion East delivers via mobile food service. Alongside the $5 Real Meal, their “Fun Meal”—grilled chicken, sweet plantains, fresh fruit, and drink in fun, kid-friendly packaging—is delivered in individual boxes for easy school distribution.
The company’s food trucks serve outdoor school gatherings, faith-based events, and nonprofit projects across NYC.
Fusion East continues to add staff and capacity as schools reach out citywide. “The outpouring from NYC’s school community has been amazing,” Walcott shares. “We’re known for our real meals and real value and are thrilled to support schools as they grow.”
They do more than fill plates—they build relationships, create employment, and show Black MWBEs can thrive in public service. They are also Prospect Park’s Picnic House’s exclusive Caribbean caterer.
Healthy Grilled chicken wrap and fruit bow
Real Equity, Real Action
Fusion East’s expansion illustrates how equity becomes reality when schools embrace MWBEs over entrenched suppliers. Even with city promises, Black-owned firms remain significantly sidelined, making Fusion East’s work even more essential.
True equity requires multiplying opportunities for businesses like theirs.
Experience Fusion East Today
Fusion East serves up its $5 Real Meal for dine-in or takeout daily in East New York. On Tuesday, August 5, don’t miss Live Music Tuesday, where food and NYC culture come together.
School administrators pursuing affordable, nutritious food service are invited to Contact Fusion East and see why so many New York City schools citywide now place their trust in them.
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