FRANKLIN F. MARTIN A Former Black Business Owner

Franklin Farnarwance Martin significantly contributed to the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc. He came into the 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland in June 1997 as a Charter Member, sponsored by Gregory Johnson, who was then the Vice President of the Greater Cleveland Urban League; since that time, Franklin has served faithfully in various positions, such as Vice President with three different Presidents, Public Relations chair, and many times as the Gala Chairman and Membership Chair chaired the Daniel E. Morgan Mentoring program and also the Chief Operations Officer for eight years,

If you attended many of the annual Galas, you knew Franklin chaired them. He is the son of a retired Baptist pastor who is now 96 years young. Franklin has retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs as a Benefits Counselor for eight years. His job was to assist Veterans in receiving disability benefits. We are highlighting Martin in Real Men Magazine for him being a Vietnam Veteran, A Retired Business Owner, A Civic Leader, and a Humanitarian. Our own Christopher Howse had a chance to have a candid conversation with Franklin, and his story is a story of faith, hard work, resilience, and confidence.

CH: Can you tell us a little about your background and how you became a business owner in Cleveland?

FM: I’ve had four exciting careers.

1. I’ve worked at The Cleveland Plain Dealer (Paper Carrier (for 7 Years), Printing Apprenticeship, and Journeyman CompositorPrinter) – for 20 years.

2. Served four years in the United States Air

Force (Vietnam Veteran)

3. Owner of FranDon Printing Company and F. Martin Printing Company (32 years)

4. Worked as a Veteran’s Benefits Counselor for The Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Office (11 years)

Career #1: I started working as a Plain Dealer carrier. I had a vast paper route and was designated a supercarrier. I worked there for seven years until I was 16 years old. One day, I stumbled onto the floor of the PD building where the paper was created, called the Composing Room. I was fascinated by the inner workings of the composing and production departments. The Union Supervisor and I had a spirited conversation about my trespassing. Later, he realized I was a PD employee, potential apprentice, and contributor. After passing the apprentice exam with flying colors, I started working in the Composing Department. There were some older Black Journeymen that mentored me.

Career #2: During my apprenticeship time, I was talked into enlisting in the Air Force. My brother thought I should enlist and join the military band since I was eligible for the draft. I played the tuba and the sousaphone in high school. I was excellent and played in the All-City Band. It turns out that the military band already had two very seasoned tuba players and didn’t need a third. I was assigned to an Air Force baseband. Our band typically played for base graduations and special events.

Later, I was trained and assigned to the Security Air Force Police. This was a high-security clearance position. I learned quite a bit and received extensive training. Finally, I was deployed to Vietnam. I was injured in the war and received an Honorable Discharge. I returned to my current job at The Plain Dealer.

Career #3: During this time, a friend who managed a bank approached me. He asked if I would be interested in being a Printing Manager for the bank. I accepted the part-time position and worked 1 st shift while maintaining my job at The Plain Dealer at night. I negotiated and purchased the printing company, hired some employees, and purchased additional equipment. The company started growing, and our customer base started growing. I was able to form a team and establish a Board of Advisors. The Board helped me raise capital and a nice list of customers. I was the primary printer for many churches and non-profit organizations. I became a Certified Minority Business.

That designation helped me grow as well. I joined several business and professional organizations and accepted leadership roles. I became President of the Shaker Heights Rotary Club, The Black Professionals.Association, The 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland, Inc., and The Northeast Ohio Girl Scout Council. I participated in former Mayor Michael White and the Cuyahoga County Workforce Development Board.These volunteer opportunities contributed to my business growth, increased my network of professionals, and helped market my business.

Career #4: After 40-plus years working at The Plain Dealer and running my printing business, I decided to retire. I started feeling burned out and wanted to spend more time with my family. A few of my workers showed interest in purchasing my company and were able to secure the funds. Shortly after that, I was approached by a fellow board member, the Director of the VA Regional Office here in Cleveland. She was impressed with my military background and asked if I was interested in working for the VA. The regional office and hospital needed someone to assist veterans with their benefits. It was very satisfying to work. I agreed to work there but only for a short period of time. Well, that small stint turned into 11 years. I retired again from work, but I continue to stay active with my friends, family, church, and a select few volunteer and social organizations.

CH: How did your military background help you in running your business?

FM: My time in the military taught me many valuable skills I could apply to my business. One of the most important things I learned was the importance of discipline and attention to detail. There’s no room for error in the military; that same mindset translated well to running a business. I also learned how to work well under pressure and manage a team effectively, both essential skills for running a successful business.

CH: Did you face racial or financial barriers while growing your business? How did you overcome them?

FM: Unfortunately, yes. As a Black business owner in Cleveland, I faced many challenges. One of the most significant barriers was access to capital. It was challenging to secure funding in the early stages of my business, and I had to get creative with how I financed the company. I also faced racial discrimination and had to work twice as hard to prove myself in a predominantly white industry.

However, I was determined to succeed and didn’t let those barriers hold me back. I remained focused on my goals and worked hard to overcome the obstacles.

CH: What advice would you give to new budding business owners in the Black community?

FM: My advice would be to never give up on your dreams, no matter how difficult the road may be. Having a clear vision for your business and staying focused on your goals is essential. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things; be willing to adapt and pivot when necessary. It’s also crucial to build a strong support network and seek out mentors who can offer guidance and advice. Finally, remember always to give back to your community and positively influence others just starting.

CH: Who inspires you every day?

FM: Nothing is more important than your health, family, friends, and faith in God. Speaking of family, I would also like to recognize two extraordinary ladies. My wife, retired Magistrate Claudette Walcott-Martin. She has been such an inspiration and support to me throughout my professional and business career. She served in the City of Cleveland as an Assistant Law Director, as the Director of Human Resources for Cleveland Municipal Court, and for the last several years as a Magistrate for that Court.

My daughter also inspires me. Tiona Martin followed in her dad’s footsteps, became an entrepreneur (Architecture), and is now the School Vice President and Dean of faculty and staff at the School Of The Art Institute Of Chicago. Both she and her husband manage their family business.

Martin’s journey as a successful Black business owner in Cleveland inspires many, and your advice is invaluable for those who are just starting. Your military background and determination have been key factors in your success, and your ability to overcome racial and financial barriers is a testament to your resilience and perseverance. Building a solid support network and seeking mentors is essential for new business owners, especially those from underrepresented communities. Your advice to give back to the community and positively influence others is also a necessary reminder that success is not just about personal gain but also about positively impacting the world around us.

Franklin’s journey inspires us all and reminds us that anything is possible with hard work, dedication, and a never-give-up attitude. Kudos to Franklin F. Martin, a 100 Black Men of Greater Cleveland Charter Member, a father, a husband, a retired business owner, a veteran, and a living legend. When discussing those that have shaped our country and race, we must consider Franklin F. Martin and all the paths he created as a trailblazer. The future is bright because of his tireless work and service to the country. We stand on his shoulders! Thank you, Franklin!