Meet Chandra Moye of THE YARD (HBCU SPORTS BAR)

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chandra Moye.

Hi Chandra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Growing up in Atlanta shaped who I am and the values I carry today. I graduated from Redan High School before continuing my education at Mississippi Valley State University, Georgia Southern University, and Capella University. Professionally, I spent the majority of my career in Information Technology, where I developed strong skills in leadership, operations, and problem-solving. While I enjoyed building a successful career in IT, I always had the heart of an entrepreneur.

My passion has always extended beyond business—it is deeply rooted in HBCU culture and the impact these institutions have on their students, alumni, and surrounding communities. I believe they represent excellence, tradition, opportunity, and lifelong connections, and I’ve always wanted to create something that celebrates that legacy.

After owning and operating a retail store in Stone Mountain, I reached a point where I had to ask myself what I truly wanted my future to look like. The answer was clear: I wanted to dedicate my energy to two passions—real estate and building The Yard. Of those two, The Yard has always been my biggest dream.

There was a time when I put that dream aside and convinced myself it might never happen. But in 2022, I made the decision to stop waiting and start building. I committed to pursuing the vision with everything I had. Today, The Yard represents more than a business—it represents perseverance, community, and a mission to create an experience that celebrates HBCU culture while bringing people together. I believe I’m now embarking on the greatest entrepreneurial journey of my life, and this is only the beginning.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Life happens, and every entrepreneurial journey comes with challenges. But I’ve always believed that obstacles are simply lessons and opportunities in disguise. I focus on straightening out the curves instead of letting them stop me.

The biggest struggles over the past two years have been the loss of several very close family members while also balancing a demanding full-time career and pursuing my dream of building The Yard. There have been moments when it would have been easier to give up, but those experiences have only strengthened my determination. They remind me that time is precious, and that’s exactly why I continue to push forward every day.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
The Yard is an HBCU-inspired sports bar and experiential brand built to celebrate the culture, pride, and legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. While we are launching through our mobile bar and event experience, our long-term vision is to create Atlanta’s premier HBCU sports bar—a place where alumni, students, families, and supporters can gather to watch games, enjoy incredible food, handcrafted drinks, and an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.

What sets us apart is that we are not simply serving food and beverages—we are creating unforgettable experiences. We believe every guest should leave saying they enjoyed great food, great service, and an experience they will never forget. From the moment you arrive, our goal is to make you feel the excitement, pride, and sense of community that defines the HBCU experience.

Whether we’re hosting HBCU homecomings, tailgates, festivals, weddings, corporate events, or private celebrations, The Yard brings together sports, music, culture, and hospitality in a way that is authentic and memorable. Every event is designed to feel like coming home—a place where lifelong memories are made.

Our brand is also mission-driven. We are committed to supporting scholarships for HBCU students, hosting community events, partnering with local organizations, and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs, artists, and small businesses to showcase their talents. We believe a successful business should create both economic opportunity and meaningful social impact.

What we are most proud of is our authenticity. The Yard was founded by someone whose life was transformed by the HBCU experience, and that passion is reflected in every detail of our brand. We are building more than a sports bar—we are building a movement that celebrates excellence, preserves culture, and brings people together across generations.

At The Yard, our promise is simple: great food, exceptional service, unforgettable experiences, and a community where culture and legacy are celebrated every day. We’re more than a bar—we’re “The Ultimate HBCU Sport Bar Experience.”

Any big plans?
Our future plans are to launch The Yard Mobile Bar in July while simultaneously beginning the build-out of our flagship physical location in the city of Atlanta. The mobile bar will serve as both a revenue-generating business and a powerful marketing platform, allowing us to build brand awareness, engage with the community, and establish a loyal customer base. As we participate in festivals, homecomings, sporting events, and private celebrations, we will be laying the foundation for our ultimate vision: Atlanta’s premier HBCU-inspired sports bar, known for great food, exceptional service, and an unforgettable experience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://theyardsportsbar.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yardhbcusportsbar
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yardhbcusportbar