St. Paul publisher named to national list of top solo entrepreneurs

Dr. Artika R. Tyner, founder of Planting People Growing Justice Press and Bookstore in St. Paul, has been named a 2026 Zoom Solopreneur 50 honoree, a national recognition celebrating innovative independent business owners across the United States.

Tyner was selected from nearly 2,800 applicants across 48 states and more than 400 cities. An independent panel of business leaders and industry experts chose honorees based on business performance, originality, community impact and influence.

She is being recognized for her work through Planting People Growing Justice, a Black woman-owned children’s book publisher and social enterprise focused on increasing diversity in books and promoting youth leadership development.

Founded in 2017, the press publishes children’s books that encourage young readers to explore history and culture across the African Diaspora. Its titles cover topics including arts, geography and science, while also addressing social-emotional learning, emotional intelligence and anti-racist education.

“Leaders are readers,” Tyner said. “Our mission is to ensure that all children see themselves reflected in books and are equipped with the tools to lead and make a difference in the world.”

The Zoom Solopreneur 50 program highlights entrepreneurs who leverage technology to build businesses independently. With more than 33 million self-employed Americans, organizers say the recognition reflects a broader shift in how businesses are created and sustained.

As an honoree, Tyner will receive access to mentorship, technology resources and partnership opportunities through Zoom’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Planting People Growing Justice Press and Bookstore is located in St. Paul.

For more information, visit zoom.com/solo50.