Recognizing National Black Business Month

August 20, 2025

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Recognizing National Black Business Month

Today is a GREAT TIME to acknowledge the contributions of Black entrepreneurs in the New Jersey architectural community.

Two major players in the New Jersey Black Architects community are OCA Architects in Newark, NJ, and DIGroupArchitecture, based in New Brunswick, NJ.

DIGroup Architecture, originally known as Design Ideas Group Architecture & Planning, was formed in 2006 through the merger of multiple architectural firms, who had previously collaborated on the design and construction of schools in New Jersey’s Abbott districts as NJK-12 Architects. AIA Central New Jersey Past President Lori Ann Jones, AIA, is a member of their staff. DIGroup Architecture is known for its focus on “Architecture for Change,” emphasizing transformative designs that connect people, improve lives, and strengthen communities. DIGroup is certified as a Minority Business Enterprise and is recognized as New Jersey’s largest majority Black-owned architecture firm. DIGroup has expanded its reach into Philadelphia and New York City and has received numerous awards and accolades, including being named AIA-NJ Firm of the Year. The firm actively engages in mentorship initiatives and community-based revitalization projects. DIGroup’s work on the Long Branch Free Public Library renovation earned them the 2023 National Medal from the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

OCA Architects, Inc. was founded in 2015 by Obi C. Agudosi, AIA, and AIA NJ Leader / NOMA NJ President Taylor Latimer, Associate AIA, is a member of their staff. The firm is known for its innovative and sustainable approach to architecture, particularly in the areas of public sector projects and transportation infrastructure. They have a strong focus on client satisfaction and nurturing a diverse talent pool within the firm. OCA Architects was established in 2015 with a mission to lead through innovation and sustainability. The firm began with a small, close-knit team and quickly gained recognition for its meticulous attention to detail, innovative thinking, and client-focused approach. OCA performs government work in urban areas where the engagement of minority-owned firms is critical because it not only supports the minority firm and local community, but it also helps young people see professionals who look like them working on prominent projects and encourages them to aspire to greater heights.

Resources to support Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Architectural Industry may be found at the following links:

New Jersey Minority or Women Business Enterprises

M/WBE is a certificate issued by the state to identify minority and/or women-owned businesses or enterprises. This certification may be beneficial when securing contracts with government entities or as subcontractors to larger government contracts.

American Institute of Architects Diversity Equity and Inclusion Resources

The American Institute of Architects Guides for Equitable Practice

AIANJ Equity and Diversity News

By Stacey Ruhle Kliesch, AIA, AIA NJ Advocacy Consultant | Posted in Diversity, EquityInArchitecture | Tagged: #AIADEI, #BlackBusinessMonth, #DIGroupArchitecture, #MWBE, #OCAArchitects | Comments (0)