Carlton Brown

Carlton Brown is an entrepreneur and co-founder of the urban fashion brand FUBU. Alongside Daymond John, Keith Perrin, and J. Alexander Martin, Brown established FUBU, a brand focused on urban clothing designed to resonate with the African-American community. The name FUBU, which stands for "For Us, By Us," served as a cultural statement. Brown initially managed the post-production side of the business, including tagging inventory, bagging items, and distributing products to consumers. As the company expanded, Brown's responsibilities grew to include working with manufacturers, embroiderers, and retailers, as well as overseeing shipping, receiving, and collections.

Brown contributed to the development of FUBU's line of jerseys, jeans, outerwear, and accessories, which achieved international recognition in the fashion industry. FUBU reached significant sales milestones and was recognized for its entrepreneurial achievements with honors such as Congressional Awards, NAACP Awards, the Pratt Institute Award, the Christopher Wallace Award, the Online Hip-Hop Award, and a Citation of Honor from the Queens Borough President. The brand's cultural influence was amplified when LL Cool J wore a FUBU hat and referenced the brand in a Gap Inc. commercial, increasing FUBU's visibility in mainstream culture.

Under Brown's leadership, FUBU expanded into new sectors, including the creation of the record label FB Entertainment and the launch of "Natural Style by FUBU," a hair care line. Brown also positioned FUBU as the first Black-owned company to sponsor a race car driver in the Nextel Cup Series. He has been active in intellectual property monetization, managing FUBU's brand licensing and building additional business ventures, including a beverage and spirits company and investments in family enterprises.

Brown has overseen FUBU's expansion into hospitality with Hotel FUBU. He has also participated in philanthropy and community development, supporting aspiring entrepreneurs and advocating for economic opportunities in marginalized communities. Through speaking engagements and mentorship, Brown remains an influential figure in the fashion and business industries, recognized for his entrepreneurial achievements and commitment to community empowerment.