In the fall of 2015, the Louisville Urban Board of Directors gifted the League with funds to establish an endowment that would, in perpetuity, support targeted programs and services. The endowment was named in honor of Benjamin K. Richmond, who served as President and CEO of the League. As President and CEO of the Louisville Urban League, Benjamin K. Richmond served as a cornerstone of Louisville social activism for over a quarter century. A significant advocate for economic equality and education attainment, Mr. Richmond remained committed to these pursuits until his retirement in 2015.

In October of 2023, the League met with Ben to discuss his desire to use funds. Per his wishes, funds will be used for the following: 

  • LUL will award the Benjamin K. Richmond Scholarship for Undergraduate Studies in Business, an Academic Scholarship of at least $10,000 to a deserving Black public school graduating senior in Louisville, Kentucky, who has been accepted into a 4-year degree program with a business or business development concentration.
  • LUL will award the Benjamin K. Richmond Small Business Development Grants, awards of no less than $5,000 to be used to support Black-owned businesses and Black entrepreneurs participating in Black business programs and training affiliated with the League.