In recognition of National Black Business Month, the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) has been highlighting successful Black-owned businesses across the state. On August 8, 2024, TNECD Commissioner Stuart C. McWhorter, alongside Memphis Mayor Paul Young, paid a visit to Hardy Beverages to celebrate the company's achievements.

Hardy Beverages, led by Founder Carolyn Hardy, has become a significant player in the beverage industry, known for its innovative approaches and strong community involvement. During the visit, Commissioner McWhorter and Mayor Young acknowledged the company's outstanding contributions to the local economy and its role as a model for other businesses.

Carolyn Hardy expressed her gratitude for the support her company has received, particularly from the Tennessee Manufacturing Extension Partnership (TMEP). She highlighted how TMEP's assistance was crucial in overcoming challenges that small businesses like hers often face. "TMEP has been so instrumental to our success. They even coded and built a robot to help with packaging," said Hardy, emphasizing the impact of the organization's expertise on their operations.